Dwelling insurance and homeowner's insurance are both types of insurance policies that provide coverage for residential properties, but they differ in terms of the extent of coverage and the type of property they protect. Here's a breakdown of the differences:

1. Dwelling Insurance:
Dwelling insurance, also known as dwelling fire insurance or dwelling property insurance, is designed to cover the physical structure of a property against specific perils. It typically provides coverage for damage caused by fire, lightning, windstorms, explosions, and other named perils specified in the policy. Dwelling insurance does not cover personal belongings or liability protection for the homeowner.

Dwelling insurance is commonly used for properties that are not occupied by the owner, such as rental properties or vacant homes. It focuses primarily on the structure of the property itself rather than personal possessions or liability coverage.

2. Homeowner's Insurance:
Homeowner's insurance, on the other hand, is a more comprehensive policy that provides coverage for both the structure and contents of a home, as well as liability protection. It generally includes dwelling coverage, which protects the physical structure of the home, and personal property coverage, which covers the loss or damage of belongings within the home.

In addition to property coverage, homeowner's insurance offers liability coverage that protects the homeowner if someone is injured on the property and files a lawsuit. It may also provide coverage for additional living expenses if the home becomes uninhabitable due to a covered event, such as a fire or storm.

Homeowner's insurance is typically purchased by individuals who own and occupy their homes, providing a broader scope of protection compared to dwelling insurance.

To summarize, dwelling insurance primarily covers the structure of a property against specific perils, while homeowner's insurance offers more comprehensive coverage, including the structure, personal belongings, liability, and additional living expenses. The choice between the two depends on the type of property, occupancy status, and the level of coverage required. It's important to review the specific terms and conditions of each policy to understand the coverage provided.