Home renovations are on the rise; In fact, according to the Joint Center for Housing Studies of Harvard University’s Leading Indicator of Remodeling Activity (LIRA), annual home improvement spending growth is expected to increase from 2.4% in the last quarter of 2015 to 6.8% in the second quarter of 2016. Bolstered by 2015’s favorable housing market condition, which included new construction, price gains and sales, homeowners are investing in improvements to their homes.
If you’re finally tackling that kitchen remodel or adding an in-law suite, don’t wait to think about the risks that come with home renovations. Here are four tips to make sure you’re protected before your project even gets underway:
- Vet Your Contractor & Subcontractors – Take your time choosing a general contractor, who orchestrates your entire project. Beyond just word-of-mouth and online reviews, ask to speak with former clients who had similar renovation projects and check the contractor’s reputation with the Better Business Bureau. As you’re choosing your general contractor, also be sure to get their license number and verify it. Additionally, ask to see a copy of their insurance policy (and don’t be afraid to call their carrier) and make sure they have adequate coverage, including worker’s compensation to cover any workers who could be hurt on the job. Beyond coverage, also make sure you’re aware of everyone who will be working in your home every day and, if needed, run background checks.
- Get It In Ink – Didn’t think through the removal and disposal of your old appliances? Don’t rely on verbal agreements or side conversations for any aspect of your renovation. Make sure you get an estimate and proposed contract from your general contractor before the project begins and that everything is covered, including the timeline, payment details and how you’ll address approvals and any unexpected projects and costs.
- Check Your Coverage – Contact your insurance agent to talk through your renovation and make sure you understand your coverage. If there are any gaps in coverage for your contractor or subcontractors, make sure speak with your insurance agent about that as well, as you may need to extend the limits of liability in your homeowners policy.
- Protect Your (New) Investment –If you’re adding onto your home, don’t wait until it’s complete to increase the insurance coverage on the structure of your home, as you may not be covered if the addition is destroyed or damaged before your coverage has increased. Similarly, if you purchase new items like that baby grand piano you’ve been wanting or new TVs or furniture to fill your new space, also make sure you let your insurance agent know in case you need to increase your coverage for personal possessions.
A home renovation can be financially and emotionally stressful. However, at Sinclair Risk & Financial Management, we’re here to help ensure you’re protected and covered and starting your renovation on a solid foundation.
Mary McGrath
Sinclair Risk& Financial Management
