Does My Policy Cover My Living Expenses, Should I Need to Rebuild?

It's likely that you'll have to rent an apartment while the construction of your house is under way. All homeowners policies pay the cost of temporarily living away from home—including rent, hotel bills, and restaurant meals—but coverage varies. If you have a large family or you're in an area where the cost of living is high, consider purchasing a policy with broader coverage. Also, keep in mind that you'll have to pay your mortgage each month (even though your house is gone, you still owe the bank). Would the amount you'd receive from the insurance company allow you to survive comfortably? Ask how to collect it—in a lump sum, or when you present your bills?