Spring is almost here, and people all across Ashland, Wisconsin, are preparing to complete important projects in and around the home. To get ready for these projects, homeowners may attend home and garden shows, read magazines or visit local home improvement stores for inspiration.
Although spring projects can increase the value of your home and make it a more enjoyable space, they also require a significant investment of time and money. Many homeowners assume that their existing homeowners’ insurance policy will cover their spring projects. However, this is not always the case.
What Is Covered?
Homeowners’ insurance covers your home and other structures, but it doesn’t necessarily cover the land itself. Examples of outdoor spring projects that are not likely to be covered by your homeowners’ insurance include fire pits, raised gardens, planted trees, landscaping, and hardscaping.
Certain other projects completed in the spring may be covered under the “Coverage B – Other Structures” section of a homeowners’ insurance policy. The coverage limit is typically equal to 10 percent of the coverage that applies to the dwelling. For example, if the homeowners’ insurance policy includes $300,000 worth of coverage for the dwelling, the limit on coverage for other structures will be equal to $30,000.
Structures usually included in the Coverage B section of a homeowners’ insurance policy include pools, decks, gazebos, fences, garages and garden sheds.
Extra Coverage
Some insurers may offer more than 10 percent of the dwelling coverage limit. As a homeowner, you should check with your agent to determine how much coverage will apply to any projects you may complete during the spring. If you feel that the coverage isn’t sufficient, you can purchase additional coverage to increase the limit. For example, if you are building a large garage or installing a pool that is worth more than 10 percent of your dwelling coverage amount, you should purchase a higher limit to make sure your project is well protected.
Considerations for Special Structures
Certain structures on your property may present safety concerns that affect the underwriting of your homeowners’ insurance policy. In such cases, you need to discuss the project with your insurer before you complete it to make sure it won’t cause a problem. Examples of projects that may be problematic for homeowners in Ashland include outdoor kitchens, firepits, fireplaces, and pools. With regard to pools, for example, insurers may not be willing to cover them, or they may cover then only if they meet certain safety standards, such as having a fence or cover.
Talk to Your Insurance Agent
Homeowners’ insurance policies vary with regard to their coverage limits, covered structures, and other factors. To make sure that any spring project you complete will have the coverage you need, it is best to talk to your insurance agent about the specifics of your policy. Be sure to have a detailed conversation with your agent before you begin the project so you can avoid any problems.
Contact Main Street Insurance today to learn more about homeowners’ insurance.
