(BPT) Many of today’s homeowners have been inspired by house-flipping shows to learn practical tips and savvy tricks to either increase their home’s resale value or, for those who prefer to stay put, refresh their living space for its long-term use. While these shows highlight the newest trends that resonate with new buyers or help customize a house to an owner’s current needs, what they don’t tell you is how remodeling might affect your homeowners insurance coverage.
“Building an addition and adding square footage, renovating a kitchen or bathroom, or other significant changes made to a home will increase its value,” said Jane Li, Mercury Insurance director of product management. “One thing that can’t be overlooked, however, is that these renovations will also increase the home’s replacement cost if it is damaged or destroyed, so it’s very important that homeowners also adjust their insurance policies to ensure the home is properly insured in the event disaster strikes.”
Here are four improvements Li recommends discussing with your insurance agent before making upgrades.
1. Roof replacement.
The roof is the primary source to protect a home against the elements, providing shelter from rain, hail, wind, summer heat and winter cold. It’s likely not the first thing that comes to mind when a homeowner thinks of renovations but, eventually, it will need to be replaced to keep doing its job properly.
2. Installing a pool.
Pools are a great way to cool off when temperatures climb and are also a nice centerpiece for outdoor entertaining. However, putting in a pool also adds to your liability risk, which will increase your homeowners insurance premium.
3. Replacing plumbing fixtures.
Sometimes, all it takes to give your kitchen or bathroom a new look is to swap out your old sink for a new one.
If you decide to replace some of your home’s plumbing fixtures, it’s important to make note of the upgraded materials as they may be of a higher quality – and thus have a higher replacement cost – than the original equipment. It’s also a good time to consider installing a water-leak detection system, as claims due to water-related damages, like bursting or leaking pipes, or malfunctioning appliances, are the most commonly filed homeowners insurance claims, according to Mercury Insurance.
4. Revamping your landscaping.
The trees, bushes, plants and stonework you choose can add to your home’s curb appeal and, in areas with dry climates that are prone to wildfires, your landscaping may even increase your home’s insurability.
The five feet closest to your home is where you should retrofit with fire retardant materials and conduct simple maintenance like clearing away dead plants, and cleaning gutters and decks of leaves. The next 30 feet from your home should be green and clean landscaping, with lawns kept free of debris. Trim tree limbs so they are at least 10 feet away from your home and trim unruly bushes. Keep your lawn well-manicured and plants healthy. Hard surfaces like asphalt and concrete also work well in this space.
Finally, the next 70 feet should contain thinned out vegetation, removing flammable plants and brush surrounding your home. Trees should also be at least 20 feet apart.
Whether you plan to live in your home for many years to come or sell it to a new homeowner, be sure to assess your homeowners’ coverage needs annually as long as it’s your property.
