Updating Your Home Insurance
Homes often grow and change alongside the people living in them. If you've added expensive furnishings or made substantial upgrades, it's important to re-evaluate your homeowners insurance and make sure your policy reflects those changes. Here are 6 instances when it may be beneficial to review and adjust your coverage.
1. Remodelling or Renovation Work
Home improvement projects typically increase the value of your home, which usually calls for more coverage. But that doesn't necessarily mean your insurance rates will automatically increase. In fact, some projects, like adding a new roof, may help you save on your monthly home insurance premiums. Just be sure to notify your provider before any work begins.
2. Adding a Pool or an Outdoor Trampoline
Because these fun home features come with increased risk of injury, they're labeled an attractive nuisance. Upping your liability insurance can help keep you protected if there's ever an accident on your property and a subsequent lawsuit.
3. Acquiring New Valuables
Whether you inherit them or purchase them, expensive goods such as jewellery, art, rugs, and antiques, should be added to your policy. Increasing your coverage is the only way to safeguard them in the event of damage or theft.
4. Starting a Home Business
Many home-based business owners don't realize they have little, if any, coverage from a homeowners or renters insurance policy. Since a new home business likely means purchasing new technology and expensive equipment, you may need to get additional protection.
5. You’ve Added Home Security
Taking steps to make your home safer and less prone to damage can qualify you for an insurance discount. Let your insurer know if you install an alarm system, or automatic water shut-off device.
6. You Have a Dog
Yes, seems strange, but getting a dog means added liability, particularly with certain breeds, so you’ll want to speak with your insurance agent if you purchase or adopt one. An adjustment can protect you if your new pet damages a neighbour’s property, or injures someone at your house.
You've worked hard for your home. Secure your belongings by updating your coverage to match your circumstances.
