When I bought a house with a wood stove, I was shocked that my insurance agent actually had to come out and measure the distance between the wood stove pad and the wall. They also measured the distance from the pipe to the wall and took a bunch of pictures. It wasn't until I started asking about why those things mattered that I learned how many things affect homeowners insurance premiums. I spent years researching all of the factors and how they contribute to premiums so that I could create this site. I hope that my experience and research helps you to prepare for buying your next home insurance policy.