How Home Improvements Impact Your Homeowners Insurance

A fresh coat of paint, a new kitchen, or an added room – home improvements are not only exciting but also enhance the comfort and value of your property. As you invest time and money into upgrading your haven, it's essential to consider the less glamorous side: how these changes can affect your homeowners insurance. This guide will provide an in-depth look at the implications of home renovations on your insurance policy and what you should do to stay protected.

1. Increase in Home Value

Renovations can raise the value of your home. Whether it’s a modern kitchen, a basement conversion, or a new deck, these additions often add significant value. With this increase, comes a potential need to update your insurance policy.

• Why it matters: If the value of your home goes up, the cost to rebuild or repair might exceed your current dwelling coverage. This means, in case of a disaster, your insurance might not cover the full rebuilding cost.
• Actionable tip: Before starting any major renovations, contact your insurance agent to discuss potential changes in your home's value. Post-renovation, get an updated appraisal and adjust your coverage accordingly.

2. Upgrade Home Systems

Replacing old wiring, plumbing, or installing a new security system can influence your insurance premiums. These changes can either decrease risks (like fires from faulty wiring) or increase protection (through security measures), which insurance companies favor.

• Why it matters: Updated systems can qualify you for discounts on your homeowners insurance.
• Actionable tip: After upgrading home systems, inform your insurance agent. Ask about available discounts and ensure your coverage reflects the new changes.

3. Increased Liability Risk 

Adding features like swimming pools or trampolines, or even certain breeds of pets can increase your liability risk. These can potentially lead to injuries, for which you might be held responsible.

• Why it matters: Higher liability risks may require you to increase your liability coverage to protect yourself financially in case of lawsuits or medical bills.
• Actionable tip: Consider increasing your liability limits or think about an umbrella policy for added protection.

4. Specialized Additions Require Specialized Coverage

Installing custom features like solar panels, luxury fittings, or a home office can sometimes exceed the limits of standard homeowners insurance.

• Why it matters: Specialized installations may not be fully covered under your current policy, leaving you exposed to potential losses.
• Actionable tip: Check with your insurance agent about adding endorsements to ensure these items are adequately covered.

In Conclusion:

Home improvements are an exciting way of personalizing, upgrading, and increasing the value of your space. However, it's essential to move in tandem with your homeowners insurance to ensure your efforts are protected. Always communicate with your insurance provider before, during, and after renovations to ensure your coverage is optimized for your home’s new and improved state.

Connect with one of our agents today to make sure you are getting the best deal on your homeowners insurance. or send an email to hello@camargoinsurance.com