As warmer weather rolls in, many homeowners in Ontario start making plans to refresh, upgrade, or expand their living spaces. Whether you’re redoing your kitchen, finishing the basement, or building a new deck, spring is peak renovation season. But before the dust starts flying, it’s worth asking: does your home insurance policy cover this kind of work?
Let’s take a closer look at when and why you should check in with your broker before getting started.
Why Insurance and Renovations Go Hand in Hand
Home improvements can increase your property’s value, but they also introduce new risks and exposures that your existing policy might not fully protect. Things like:
- Structural changes that increase your home’s rebuild cost
- Fire or water damage during construction
- Liability if a contractor or helper is injured on site
- Theft or loss of building materials or tools
Not all policies automatically account for these changes, and some renovations might even void parts of your existing coverage if your insurer isn’t kept in the loop.
Common Projects That May Need Extra Coverage
While cosmetic touch-ups (like painting or replacing light fixtures) usually don’t require a policy update, more significant projects often do. Some examples include:
Finishing a basement or attic: Increases your livable space and home value.
Adding a new room or structure: Garages, sunrooms, sheds, or additions can change your coverage needs.
Kitchen or bathroom overhauls: These involve plumbing, electrical work, and expensive finishes.
Installing a pool or hot tub: These affect liability and risk.
Roof replacements or major landscaping: May require temporary changes to your policy or additional riders.
Even if your project doesn’t seem massive, it’s still smart to ask your broker for advice.
Renovating with Contractors? You’re Still Liable.
If you’ve hired a contractor, don’t assume their insurance covers everything. Ask for proof of liability coverage and ensure they have proper workers’ compensation. Even with reputable professionals, accidents can happen – and you don’t want to be on the hook for injuries or damage.
Some home policies may offer limited coverage for subcontractors, but it’s always safer to clarify with your broker.
When to Notify Your Broker
The best time to reach out is before any work begins. Your broker can:
- Review your current policy
- Advise if a temporary rider or renovation endorsement is needed
- Suggest changes to liability coverage during construction
- Help you avoid gaps in protection that could lead to denied claims
Keeping your broker informed can also protect your policy’s integrity, and ensure you’re properly covered when the upgrades are complete.
Post-Reno? Don’t Forget to Update
Once your project is finished, your broker should reassess your policy’s replacement cost and dwelling limits. Why? Because if your home’s value increases and your coverage doesn’t reflect that, you might come up short if you ever need to file a claim.
A Quick Checklist Before You Reno
✅ Talk to your broker about your renovation plans
✅ Confirm your contractor has insurance
✅ Check if a permit is required for your project
✅ Document your home’s condition before construction begins
✅ Keep receipts and invoices related to materials and upgrades
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Spring is the perfect time to invest in your home and we’re here to help you do it safely and smartly. If you’re planning a renovation, contact us first so we can tailor your coverage and keep things protected from blueprint to final reveal.
Get in touch today to review your policy or explore your renovation coverage options.
