What is Homeowners Non-Standard?
Homeowners Non-Standard refers to insurance for residences that fall outside typical underwriting guidelines. These policies are written for higher-risk properties or owners who need special terms—for example older homes, homes with prior claims, properties in high-wind zones, or dwellings used for short-term rentals. Coverage still centers on property protection and personal liability, but underwriting, exclusions, and premium structure differ from standard homeowner policies.
Who needs it
Non-standard homeowners coverage is often sought by landlords, owners of older or vacant homes, associations with unique exposures, and proprietors of properties near coastal or wildfire-prone areas. Organizations such as community associations or small portfolio owners may prefer a specialized program. Some brokers place these risks through specialty programs like Colonial General Insurance Agency, Inc. Homeowner Insurance Program or tailored market options found in a general Homeowners Insurance Program Overview.
What it typically covers
Non-standard policies generally include the core protections you expect from homeowners insurance, adjusted for the risk profile:
- Dwelling and other structures coverage for physical damage
- Personal property protection, subject to policy limits
- Personal liability for third-party injury or property damage
- Additional living expense coverage if the home is uninhabitable after a covered loss
Insurers may also offer optional endorsements such as increased earthquake or windstorm limits, equipment coverage, and loss-of-rent protection for landlords. Specialty carriers and programs, including regional offerings like the Colonial General — Homeowners Insurance for Community Associations, can help place unique or higher-exposure risks.
Common exclusions or limitations
Non-standard policies often have stricter exclusions and narrower coverage than standard forms. Typical limitations include exclusions for wear-and-tear, certain water damage or sewer backup unless endorsed, damage from neglected maintenance, and tighter liability wording for business uses of the home. Underwriting factors can also result in higher deductibles or sub-limits for items like jewelry or electronics.
Factors that influence cost
Premiums are driven by several underwriting factors:
- Age and construction of the home
- Claims history and prior losses
- Location risks such as wildfire, hurricane, or theft rates
- Occupancy type (owner-occupied, vacant, rental)
- Risk management measures like alarm systems, updated wiring/plumbing, and mitigation efforts
Small changes—like improving security or addressing deferred maintenance—can sometimes improve terms or reduce cost.
Proof of insurance & compliance
Owners and managers may need certificates of insurance or policy endorsements to satisfy mortgage holders, local ordinances, or lease requirements. Many specialty markets provide tailored proof documentation; if your property is managed by an association or used commercially, check with your broker about specific endorsement language.
How to get a quote
Gather basic information about the dwelling (age, construction, claims history, occupancy) and a list of any loss-control measures. If you need placement for unusual exposures—such as high-risk coastal property or association-managed buildings—work through a broker familiar with specialty homeowner programs. For direct help, you can talk to your agent to start the quote process and compare available markets.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does non-standard differ from a standard homeowner policy?
Non-standard policies are designed for homes or owners with higher-than-average risks. They may have different exclusions, limits, and underwriting requirements compared with standard forms.
Can I add wind or earthquake coverage to a non-standard policy?
Often yes—many insurers offer endorsements or separate policies for windstorm, earthquake, or flood. Availability and cost depend on the carrier and the property's location.
Will prior claims make it impossible to get coverage?
Prior claims can limit options and increase premiums, but specialty markets exist to place higher-risk homes. A broker can identify carriers that consider your specific history without auto-declining.
Still have questions? Talk to a local insurance expert.