Walking through the streets of Lancaster City or Lititz, you’ll often see those iron “Fire Marks” on old brick facades. Back then, they were a guarantee that fire brigades would save your home. Today, protection is a bit more complex. If you are buying a home built before 1940, a standard policy might leave you exposed.
1. The “Rebuild” vs. “Repair” Trap Many insurers provide replacement cost coverage. This will pay for the cost to replace/rebuild your home if it was damaged. But in Lancaster, replacing hand-carved molding, slate roofing, or horse-hair plaster is very unique and not typically seen in modern houses. you might need extended dwelling coverage or functional replacement cost
2. The “Hidden” Systems (Knob & Tube) We love the charm of exposed brick, but we hate what’s often behind it: Knob and Tube wiring. Many carriers will flat-out refuse to insure it due to fire risk. At Homesale Insurance, we know which carriers specialize in historic PA homes and can help you navigate inspection requirements without losing the deal.
3. The Sinkhole Reality Pennsylvania sits on limestone, making us one of the top states for sinkhole activity. Standard home insurance does typically does cover earth movement. You could be fully financially responsible for the repairs—unless you have a specific Sinkhole Endorsement.
Lancaster FAQ
- Q: Do I really need sinkhole insurance in Lancaster County?
- A: Yes. Pennsylvania is prone to sinkholes due to our limestone bedrock (karst terrain). Standard home policies exclude “earth movement.” We highly recommend adding a specific Sinkhole Endorsement to protect your foundation.
- Q: Does my auto insurance cover horse and buggy accidents?
- A: Yes, a collision with a buggy is treated like a collision with another vehicle. However, given the severity of these accidents, we recommend higher limits to protect your assets from lawsuits.
