Risks Associated With Remodelling And Home Insurance

By Alexander Standten


Remodelling is a major decision for the vast majority of homeowners. There is the inconvenience during the job to think about, as well as the time it takes to finish, and of course the price is a big consideration. On the other hand, your home may be much more livable with a renovation, and the value of the home could also increase.

No matter the size of the renovation you are planning, there are many considerations involved. The budget needs to be sorted out, and you need to think about the timing of the work, and how long it will take. With all of the planning people do, they sometimes forget that their home insurance could be affected by this work.

Most standard homeowners policies allow for minor repairs and renovations without jeopardizing coverage but that doesn't go without possible exceptions. Prior to beginning your remodelling, take a look at your home insurance policy and speak with your insurance provider. Here are three areas that can leave you without coverage during a renovation:

Before you hire a contractor to complete renovations on your home, be sure that you discuss insurance issues before they begin any work on your home. Be sure to ask for proof of liability insurance with an contractor or subcontractors you hire.

This type of insurance coverage is mainly used as a safeguard against liability caused by injury and damages. Be sure to investigate what the extension of the coverage is, when the policy will expire, and the limits. It's required by law in most states, but it's still important to check. Worksites unfortunately are places where accidents will occur, and if this happens on your property, be sure that everyone involved is covered by insurance.

Being covered by insurance isn't a reason to have lax safety standards, be sure that any hazardous situations on the site are dealt with properly. Lawsuits can be filed if there is negligence involved. Be sure that your contractors are vetted by people you trust before you hire them.

Prior to commencing with the renovation process, calculate how much your property will be worth after the remodelling is complete. The majority of homeowners leave themselves with no protection because they neglect to increase their insurance coverage. Talk to your agent to make sure you're fully covered throughout and after the renovation.

Sometimes renovations can leave your home more exposed to potential risks such as damaging weather or theft. For more intensive renovations, you and your family may have to stay in temporary accommodations during the process, and at this time your standard home insurance policy might not provide any protection at all.

It appears that the majority of insurance providers cease coverage on homes that are left unoccupied for over thirty days. Extra coverage will be necessary if this is applicable to you. Some insurers may grant you a vacancy permit, which covers some perils like fire and wind. For further coverage, an insurer may offer vacancy insurance but many insurance companies are wary about insuring vacant homes due to the heightened chance of something happening. If you are planning to be out of your home for a renovation you should consult with your insurance agent.




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