Do I Need Home Insurance For A Renovation?
Yes, you should check your home insurance before starting a renovation as your current policy might not cover everything that happens while your home is being worked on. It is easy to get caught up in choosing finishes, planning the new layout and looking forward to having more space, but insurance deserves a place on your to do list too.
Will My Current Home Insurance Cover Renovations?
It depends on the work you are planning. Giving your bedroom a fresh coat of paint is very different from removing a wall, replacing a roof or turning an unused loft into a new bedroom. The bigger the job, the more important it is to check the small print.
Some home insurance policies will cover minor improvements without any changes being needed. Others have restrictions on major building work, particularly if it affects the structure of your home or leaves part of the property exposed.
The best starting point is to call your insurer and explain what you have planned. Tell them what work is being carried out, how long it should take and whether you will still be living at home. Ask them to confirm what is covered and if anything needs to change before work begins.
What Insurance Should I Check Before Building Work Starts?
There is no single policy that suits every renovation, so it is worth looking at a few different areas of cover.
- Buildings insurance protects the structure of your home against specific insured events. Check that your planned alterations will not affect your existing cover.
- Contents insurance is worth reviewing if you need to move furniture, electronics or other belongings around to make room for the work. You do not want to discover a gap in your cover when you need it most.
- Your builder’s insurance matters too. Ask the contractor what insurance they hold and request confirmation that it is appropriate for the work being carried out. Public liability insurance, for example, can cover certain claims if a third party suffers injury or property damage because of the contractor’s activities.
- Specialist renovation insurance may be worth considering for larger projects. Depending on the policy, this can provide protection for risks that your usual home insurance does not cover.
One thing to remember is that your builder’s insurance and your own home insurance do different jobs. Having one does not automatically mean you have everything covered.
What Could Go Wrong If I Do Not Tell My Insurer?
Imagine your loft conversion is underway when heavy rain damages an area of roofing that has been opened up for the work. Or perhaps a problem develops elsewhere in your home while contractors are carrying out structural alterations.
You would naturally want to know that you were protected. However, if you have not told your insurer about the renovation when your policy requires you to, a claim could become more complicated. The outcome will depend on your policy and the circumstances, so it is much better to check in advance.
There is also the value of your home to think about. A new bedroom or an extra bathroom could change what it would cost to rebuild your property. Once the renovation is complete, speak to your insurer about updating your cover if necessary.
Do I Need Home Insurance For A Loft Conversion?
If you are planning a loft conversion, checking your insurance is particularly worthwhile. The work may involve scaffolding, roof alterations and structural changes, with parts of your home temporarily more exposed to the weather.
Before the project starts, ask your insurer if your existing policy is suitable or if you need additional cover. It is also sensible to check who is responsible for damage to the existing property, building materials and completed work under your agreement with the contractor.
When Should I Arrange Insurance For A Renovation?
Do this early, ideally while you are still planning the project. You do not need to wait until your builder is booked or materials have arrived.
Getting in touch with your insurer gives you time to sort out any changes without delaying the work. Keep copies of relevant emails and policy updates so that you have a clear record of what has been agreed.
How Can NorthSouth Help With Your Renovation?
Planning a loft conversion is exciting, particularly when you can finally picture how the extra space will work for your family. At NorthSouth, we can give you advice as you prepare for your project, including helping you understand the practical questions worth asking before the build begins. Get in touch today!
Matt Hack is a loft conversion building specialist who works across Yorkshire. With over 16 years of industry experience, he focuses on precision craftsmanship and a commitment to delivering spaces that feel as premium as they look.