Every homeowners insurance policy includes a percentage of coverage for additional living expenses. If you’re temporarily displaced from your home because of damage, this coverage can help you pay for the additional everyday expenses until you’re able to move back in. But what exactly does additional living expense (ALE) coverage include?
Here is a basic guide to the kinds of out-of-pocket expenses your ALE insurance can help you with:
Lodging
If your home is severely damaged, your insurance company may deem it unsuitable for living in while repairs are being made. In this case, your additional living expense coverage can help defray the costs of a temporary living arrangement. Lodging expenses covered include hotel and motel stays and short-term rentals.
Food
If you’re not living at home, you’ll likely need to rely on restaurants for a while. Unfortunately, this cost can add up quickly. Your additional living expense insurance can cover a reasonable amount of food costs exceeding your normal grocery bills.
Other expenses
Your insurance may help you with other expenses in addition to food and lodging. Some examples of common additional living expenses include:
- Fuel and transportation costs for an increased commute.
- Pet boarding if your temporary lodging doesn’t allow them.
- Furniture rental if your temporary lodging is unfurnished.
- Laundry services.
- Storage fees for your personal belongings.
What isn’t covered?
While the list of expenses included in your ALE coverage is fairly expansive, it won’t cover everything. It’s important to remember that this portion of your insurance policy will not pay for damage to your home or belongings. However, these costs are covered by the dwelling portion of your homeowners insurance.
If you’re not certain, you can always check with your insurance company for more details about your additional living expenses coverage.
About the Author
Pablo Torres
Pablo Torres is a qualified Real Estate Agent with over 10 years experience in real estate sales, due diligence and contract negotiations. Knowledgeable of South Florida neighborhoods. Currently, Pablo focuses his skills on all markets in the Miami metropolitan area.
He has the ability to understand sellers, buyers and renters needs with excellent communication. Fluent in English and Spanish with working knowledge of Portuguese. Pablo has impeccable reputation and a passion for real estate.
He graduated with a degree in International Business from Florida International University (1998) and a masters in business administration from Nova Southeastern University (2003). He had embarked on a career in commercial banking before being driven to switch to one of his passions-real estate.
Dedication, perseverance and punctuality allowed Pablo to sell different types of properties. His expertise with South Florida's cultural diversity has allowed him to sell real estate to both buyers and sellers.
Part of what makes Pablo so successful is his dedication to exceptional customer service and his devotion to their needs, whether they are buying or selling properties. Pablo has many repeat customers who cite his willingness to work long hours to resolve the toughest issues, as a reason why they stick with him. Torres integrity, attention to detail and careful handling of a transaction, exceeds their expectations. Sellers know that Pablo's extensive and personalized marketing strategies, means that their listing is seen by most buyers.
As a real estate professional, Pablo has the tools to represent your interests in virtually any transaction. Pablo's ability to interview, reason and figure out the smallest details makes every successful transaction a seamless process. Pablo is the right real estate professional to hire.
