Briefly, yeah. You must inform your insurance provider if you add on to your home, convert a loft, or make other significant improvements. If you don’t, your homeowners insurance may no longer be valid.

 

Several factors increase the risk to your property when a large construction project is underway:

 

• Structural – When you knock through walls or take out floors, the likelihood of something going wrong increases. Your home’s structure may become more unstable and exposed to the elements if walls and windows are being removed.

• Security – Having builders and other professionals come and go increases your home’s risk of burglary, particularly if doors and windows are routinely left open.

When should I speak with my insurance company regarding construction?

 

Ideally, early on in the project’s planning phases, but unquestionably before you make any big home-related alterations. To determine how much notice is required, check your policy. Once the construction is finished, your provider can update your house insurance to ensure that you have the appropriate amount of protection.

 

Standard kitchen and bathroom renovations should be covered unless you’re knocking down walls, and your provider won’t need to be informed about modest tasks and aesthetic upgrades like redecorating or re-tiling your bathroom. However, it is advisable to confirm.

 

Some insurance companies might need to be notified if you’re constructing a new bathroom, en-suite, or wet room in your addition. This is so that your premium may be calculated using the “number of bathrooms.”

 

Do I have coverage for construction from my house insurance?

 

With your provider, you should confirm this. Some companies limit coverage while others don’t offer any at all. For instance, you could not be protected if the current structure is damaged or any contents are stolen while the maintenance is being done.

 

You should search for specialized extension and renovation insurance if your provider does not provide coverage for you during the process. Typically, initiatives that cost more than a particular amount can access this.

 

It’s also important to keep in mind that most of the time, any subpar or flawed work by your builder is not covered by your house insurance. Decide on a trustworthy, fully insured builder after doing your homework.

 

What is covered by extension and renovation insurance?

 

Building-related specialized insurance can cover: 

 

• Public liability, for instance, in case someone is hurt when your scaffolding collapses.

• If your contractors damage the walls or any other existing components of the building, it could affect your current property.

• Your goods are more likely to be broken into or stolen when there are so many people in and out of your house. If you have insurance, you can replace them.

• Materials for construction – You can find expensive objects, such roof tiles, laying about outside your property. You should make sure they are covered because these are susceptible to theft.

• In the event that your home becomes uninhabitable due to loss or damage from the construction, alternative housing may be available.

• Unoccupied property refers to a residence that has been vacant for more than 30 days since the owner had to vacate while the maintenance was being done. Because policies differ, coverage may last longer or less time.

 

Will the cost of my home insurance increase if I get an extension? 

 

Yes, possibly. Your building’s insurance may increase if you add an expansion. As a result of your home’s increased square footage, rebuilding would be more expensive. 

 

If, for instance, you purchase additional furniture or have new carpets installed, you could also need to increase the amount of your possessions insurance.

 

How can I get my homeowners insurance rates down?

 

Increase your voluntary excess—the amount you decide to pay toward a claim—to achieve this, but be sure you have the financial means to do so in the event that you need to file a claim. Additionally, increasing your home security by installing an alarm system or accruing no claims discounts will help.

 

How do I make sure I have the proper home insurance?

 

Even if you don’t have any major plans to change anything, it’s still a good idea to periodically review your house insurance coverage. Your home’s rebuild value may have been impacted by fluctuating raw material costs, or you may discover that you have more or fewer possessions and need to reevaluate how much contents insurance you require.

 

Start a quote with us right away, and we’ll help you locate the perfect amount of house insurance at a cost you can bear.

 

What happens if I require temporary housing while I am having building work done?

 

If you decide to leave the building because you are tired of all the construction, you won’t be protected. But you might find yourself in need of a temporary residence if something goes wrong with your project.

 

It’s important thinking about whether you could require insurance that will protect you if your house becomes uninhabitable due to construction.

 

Is a new insurance coverage required if I’m adding an addition? Or can I keep the current one longer?

 

Depending on your current coverage, you might be able to add renovation and extension insurance, or you could need to get a separate policy. It’s usually a good idea to compare prices to find the provider who offers the best bargain for you.

 

What changes to my home do I need to inform my insurance company about?

 

Check your policy to see what it says as this can differ between providers. For instance, if you erect scaffolding, some providers must be informed. If you are remodeling your living room or retiling your bathroom, you do not need to notify your provider. Be cautious and inform your insurance provider if you’re unsure.