P&C insurance: A beginners guide to property & casualty insurance

by Jennifer Johansen 06/29/2025

House keychain

The world of insurance can be confusing. There are so many policies to choose from - among the myriad options you’re certain to encounter what’s known as property and casualty insurance, or P and C insurance. Understanding this type of insurance is crucial to making smart decisions in choosing your coverage.

How does P&C insurance work?

P&C insurance offers financial coverage to your personal belongings. This includes your home, car and the contents of your home. It can also include personal liability coverage.

What are the main types of P&C insurance?

Some of the most common types of P&C insurance include:

Homeowners insurance: Offers policies to homeowners. Coverage options include personal belongings, home structure and liability insurance.
Renters insurance: This insurance provides financial security for personal belongings owned by renters.
Car insurance: This insurance offers financial compensation when a car is involved in an accident.

What does P&C insurance include?

P&C insurance includes coverages to your belongings when perils strike. For example, if someone breaks into your home and steals your laptop, property insurance would pay for a replacement.

However, if you have a health issue, P&C insurance wouldn’t cover medical bills. This would be under the purview of your health insurance policy.

Do a survey of your belongings to know what might need coverage. Once you have this information, you get a better idea of the insurance types best suited for you.

Homeowners Insurance

Home Insurance

Personal Liability Coverage

About the Author

Jennifer Johansen

Jennifer is passionate about the Real Estate business, and has been involved in related family businesses in construction, architectural millwork, and finance for 20 years. She and her husband relocated to Naples, from New York, 10 years ago, although her family has owned property on Marco Island since the 1980's. She has a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology and a Dual Master's Degree in Counseling and Education. She has acquired many necessary skills that are useful in Real Estate from being in the field of Counseling for many years. She holds the belief that building rapport is vital to helping her clients have a positive experience, while achieving their goals. She is very thorough and detail oriented, and has formed many close relationships with professionals in related fields, such as law, title insurance, home inspectors and other contractors. She aims to offer concierge- level service to her clients at every price point. When time permits, she enjoys spending time with family and friends. Having grown up on the South Shore of Long Island, and enjoying her summers on Fire Island, she loves any activity related to salt water, boating and the beach. Additional hobbies include gardening, art, and studying nutrition, wellness and naturopathy. She is knowledgeable about Naples and Marco Island Real Estate, in estate areas, golf/gated communities, and waterfront properties. She is a member of The Naples Board of Realtors and Marco Island Area Association of Realtors.