If a covered loss makes your home unlivable, most homeowners policies pay additional living expenses: the extra cost of living somewhere else while repairs are done. Keep every receipt and ask your insurer before you book.
What additional living expenses cover
Often called ALE or "loss of use" (Coverage D on many policies), it pays the increase in your living costs, not all of them. That can include:
- A hotel, short-term rental or apartment
- Restaurant meals above what you normally spend on groceries
- Extra mileage or commuting costs
- Laundry, pet boarding and storage
When it applies
The damage has to be covered, and the home has to be unfit to live in. That might mean no water, no working kitchen or bathroom, unsafe mold, or major tear-out in progress.
How to handle it
- Tell your adjuster why the home isn't livable, in writing.
- Ask what's approved and for how long before you book.
- Keep every receipt and a simple spending log.
- Send receipts regularly instead of all at the end.
Limits to know
ALE is usually capped at a dollar amount or a percentage of your dwelling coverage, and sometimes a time limit. It ends when the home is repaired or after the time it reasonably should take.
Common questions
Can I stay with family and still get paid?
You can claim your actual extra costs. Some insurers will discuss reasonable payments; ask your adjuster.
Is ALE subject to my deductible?
Usually one deductible applies to the whole claim. Check your policy.
Does renters insurance cover a hotel?
Many renters policies include loss of use coverage too.