HO-2 insurance: What you should know

by Qinjiang Beal 07/06/2025

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An HO-2 insurance policy is a type of homeowners insurance policy offering coverage for named perils. Many homeowners opt for this type of coverage when choosing how to insure their home and personal belongings.

Here is some more key information about HO-2 policies:

HO-2 insurance: policy definitions & details

An HO-2 policy is also sometimes referred to as "peril policy," since it only offers coverage for a specific list of events.

What is not covered by HO-2 policies?

While the list of perils might seem comprehensive, there are some perils - like sinkholes - are excluded.

You'll also need earthquake insurance or flood insurance to protect you in an area prone to these events.

Who needs an HO-2 insurance policy?

An HO-2 includes dwelling coverage, other structures coverage, personal property coverage and liability coverage.

While not "open peril" policies, the perils included will cover most claims.

HO-2 vs. HO-3

An HO-3 policy provides much broader coverage than a HO-2. However, while a HO-3 covers dwelling and other structures with open peril coverage, your personal property may still be subject to a list of named perils.

Is an HO-2 policy enough for my home?

A HO-2 policy can be much more affordable compared to other policies, but it does have more risk. If you're uncertain about how much homeowners insurance you need to protect your home and belongings, it's best to discuss the details with your insurance company.

About the Author
Author

Qinjiang Beal

Jane’s knowledge, experience and skill set are uniquely suited to assisting her clients to either acquire or sell real estate. She brings to the table the real estate acumen, enthusiasm, cultural sensitivity, and a personal dedication to the individual needs of each of those she represents.
From Hangzhou - the Silicon Valley of China, her international business background and MBA education have built a solid foundation in her keen business acumen. Ability to communicate in three languages - English, Chinese Mandarin and Japanese, further allow her to remain on the cutting edge of the underlying theory and trends in the real estate business. Her clients get not only the available information on properties and financing, but how these trends might relate to their personal situation and decisions in the short and long term.
“My career devotion also means that I put the utmost importance upon my integrity and reputation. I care and truly treat each client’s property as if it were my own. My clients may rest assured that they will always be fully and intelligently informed, and that I will be available to them on a 24/7 basis. This has always been my primary mode of operation and I believe my clients are entitled to no less. ”  - Jane Qinjiang Beal