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Buying your first home in Connecticut is an exciting milestone—but along with the keys comes a new responsibility: protecting your investment. Home insurance is one of the most important safeguards for new homeowners, but the details can feel overwhelming at first. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to understanding what you need and how to avoid common mistakes.

Step 1: Understand the Core Coverage

At its heart, a standard homeowners insurance policy covers:

  • Dwelling Coverage: Protects the structure of your home against perils like fire, wind, or theft.
  • Personal Property Coverage: Reimburses you for belongings such as furniture, electronics, and clothing if they’re stolen or damaged.
  • Liability Protection: Covers you if someone is injured on your property and you’re found legally responsible.
  • Additional Living Expenses: Helps pay for temporary housing if your home becomes uninhabitable due to a covered loss.

Step 2: Know the Add-Ons You May Need in CT

Connecticut homeowners face risks that aren’t always included in a standard policy:

  • Flood Insurance: Most standard policies do not cover flood damage. If your home is in or near a flood zone, this is essential.
  • Sewer Backup Coverage: Common in older New England neighborhoods, this can prevent expensive surprises.
  • High-Value Item Riders: Jewelry, art, or collectibles may need additional coverage beyond policy limits.

Step 3: Avoid Rookie Mistakes

  • Underinsuring Your Home: Many first-time buyers only insure for the market value. Instead, insure for the replacement cost of rebuilding your home.
  • Not Reviewing Deductibles: A lower monthly premium can come with a higher deductible—be sure you can cover it if needed.
  • Forgetting to Update Coverage: Renovations, home offices, or new valuables all require policy adjustments.

Step 4: Work with a Local Agent

Every Connecticut community is different—whether you’re in Hartford, New Haven, or along the shoreline. A local agent can guide you toward the right mix of coverage for your area and budget, while also helping you compare rates from multiple insurers.

The Bottom Line

Homeownership is one of the biggest investments you’ll ever make. With the right insurance, you’ll have peace of mind knowing your property, belongings, and financial future are protected.
Petruzelo Insurance has been helping Connecticut families protect what matters most for decades. If you’re a first-time homeowner, we’ll walk you through every step to make sure you get coverage that’s simple, affordable, and reliable.

Contact Petruzelo Insurance today to get started.