What Home Improvement Projects Should I Tell My Insurance Agent About?

Home Improvement Projects

Home improvement projects can be exciting activities as you’re picking out the paint colors, fixtures, or designing that new floor plan. However, part of your preparations for many projects starts with speaking with your independent insurance agent and letting them know about the project.

Although you probably know you need to inform your insurance agent of large home improvements, the smaller ones may also impact your coverage so it’s always best to be forthcoming about all projects.

Below are just some of the home improvement projects you need to talk with your insurance agent about.

Backyard Updates

Typically, smaller backyard updates are covered under your home insurance policy, but you should always double check anyway to be sure you are covered. Some common backyard updates that you should talk with your agent may include:

  • Pouring pavement
  • Repairing steps
  • Putting up a fence
  • Building a shed
  • Adding in a fish pond
  • Expanding your deck or patio
  • Installing a swimming pool
  • Buying a trampoline
  • Adding exterior electrical

When making any of these and other backyard updates, it’s important that you follow all safety guidelines. Remember, when you are improving the safety of your home, you could qualify for new discounts on your insurance policy.

More Living Space

If your family is expanding or you are looking to add an extra room, you may consider adding more living space which requires more livable square footage. Maybe you are extending your attic above your garage or your basement. Perhaps you are adding on a home office. Whatever your reason is for adding in more living space, you have to let your insurance agent know about it so that the value of your new living space is covered if a disaster should hit.

Roof Repair or Replacement

Having your roof repaired or replaced might not be an exciting project, but if something should happen such as snow cave-ins or leaks, you want to ensure your new roof is covered. Plus, a new roof makes your home ‘safer’ which could save you money on your homeowner’s insurance premiums.

Any new home improvements you do might or might not impact your homeowner’s coverage. Regardless, being honest with your insurance provider about all improvements is essential. If you add on a staircase and a guest falls down it and sues, you could be denied your insurance claim if you didn’t inform your provider of that new staircase. Your home is a huge investment and is a place you are building a life in. Therefore, it just makes sense to ensure every square foot of it is covered by your homeowners insurance to give you peace of mind.

Have you recently made home improvements? If so, call us at 1-800-216-4171 here at bolt insurance Agency to ensure you have adequate coverage.