Homeowners insurance tips to save cash, get better coverage

LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- There are twists to homeowners insurance that can save you money and cover you better.

The Gaglianos are looking for a house to buy. They know a lot of their savings will be tied up in it and they worry about protecting that.

"You really just want to make sure that you're prepared for the unexpected things that can happen - fires and floods and trees coming down in your pool," said Deb Gagliano.

Big ticket items like a tree falling on your house are usually covered by home insurance.

But what you may not know is that a lot of quirky things - like damage from a drone - may also be covered.

Another example? You could get as much as $5,000 in insurance if vandals damage a family headstone.

What if your dog damages property or bites someone? It might depend on the breed, but that could be covered, too.

Be aware - your property is also likely covered when it's not in your home. For instance, in your kid's dorm room or in your car.

"One caution - many people pay for smaller losses themselves because they worry that their premiums will go up if they make a claim, but according to a survey of our readers, that doesn't happen all the time," said Margot Gilman with Consumer Reports.

So you might consider filing for smaller losses like minor roof or tree damage.

Keep in mind, each policy is unique, making it difficult to predict if your premium will stay the same after a claim.

Also, experts point out that making too many claims in a short time could result in the insurance company not renewing your policy.

Last tip: If you're getting earthquake insurance, you will probably need a separate policy.

Consumer Reports is a not-for-profit organization that does not accept advertising and does not have any commercial relationship with any advertiser or sponsor on this site.