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Why Massachusetts homeowners should review their policy before making improvements.
Spring in Massachusetts means more than blooming flowers and longer days—it’s prime time for home improvement projects. Whether you’re adding a deck in Quincy, finishing a basement in Weymouth, or upgrading your roof on the South Shore, spring is the perfect season to tackle those big upgrades. But there’s one critical step many homeowners overlook: updating your insurance policy to reflect your home’s new value and risks.
At DPS Insurance, we work with homeowners throughout Quincy, Boston, and the South Shore to ensure their homeowners insurance keeps up with the changes they make—because renovations can have a big impact on your coverage needs.
Why Your Home Insurance Needs to Be Reviewed After Renovations
Your homeowners insurance is based on the replacement cost and risk profile of your home at the time the policy is written. When you complete a renovation—whether it’s aesthetic or structural—it can change both the value and risk of the home. That means your current policy might no longer offer the protection you need.
For example:
- Adding a new kitchen could significantly increase your home’s rebuild value.
- Finishing your basement may introduce flood risks not currently covered.
- Building a deck, fence, or pool adds both value and liability exposure.
- Installing a home office or gym could require special coverage for business equipment or expensive gear.
Without adjusting your policy, you could be underinsured in the event of a claim.
Common Spring Projects That Can Affect Your Coverage
Roof Replacement or Upgrades
This often reduces your risk of storm damage and may make you eligible for a premium discount. But failing to report a new roof can result in missed savings or claim issues.
Decks, Patios, or Porches
These increase your home’s value—and also create spaces where liability risks (like slips or falls) are more likely to occur.
Basement Finishing
Transforming a storage space into a livable area adds significant square footage and value. But you’ll want to ensure coverage for new flooring, electrical work, and furnishings—and review your flood insurance options.
Kitchen and Bath Remodels
These are some of the costliest updates you can make. If you install high-end appliances or custom materials, your standard policy limits might not cover full replacement.
Pools or Hot Tubs
Great for relaxing, but also increase liability exposure. You may need to adjust your liability coverage or consider an umbrella policy.
What Should You Do Before or After a Home Renovation?
- Contact DPS Insurance Before You Start
We’ll help you understand how your project could affect your policy and guide you on coverage options before the first hammer swings.
- Reassess Your Replacement Cost Value
If your home is now worth more due to upgrades, your Coverage A (Dwelling Coverage) should be increased to reflect that. We’ll help you recalculate it.
- Document Everything
Take photos before, during, and after your renovation. Keep receipts for materials and contractor work. This helps speed up claim processes and supports valuation.
- Consider New Endorsements
You might need an endorsement for high-value items (like appliances or electronics), or increased liability if you’ve added features like pools or trampolines.
- Ask About Discounts
Some upgrades, like new roofing, plumbing, or security systems, can reduce your premium. Let’s make sure you’re not leaving savings on the table.
DPS Insurance: Local Knowledge for Better Protection
As a family-owned agency based in Quincy, MA, we understand the types of projects homeowners tackle in Boston and the South Shore—and we know how to tailor policies to fit your life as it evolves. We work with leading national and regional carriers to help you stay protected without overpaying.
We’ll take the time to:
- Review your current policy in light of your home upgrades
- Recommend appropriate coverage changes
- Ensure compliance with any mortgage lender insurance requirements
- Identify new discounts you may qualify for
Ready to Build? Let’s Talk Insurance First.
Whether you’re planning a new patio, a full kitchen remodel, or just replacing old windows, DPS Insurance is here to help you protect your investment. Don’t wait until after the work is done to find out you’re underinsured.
Contact us today for a quick, no-obligation policy review tailored to your spring project goals.
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