Insurance considerations when renovating, extending or landscaping your home

Renovating or extending a home is an exciting project, and with so many practical details to manage, it's easy to overlook the impact on your insurance. But whether you're updating a kitchen, adding a new storey, or redesigning your garden, it’s essential to review your cover early to avoid being left unprotected.

Here are some key considerations for homeowners to keep in mind before work begins.

 

Tell your existing insurer before work starts

The most important step is to inform your home and buildings insurer before any renovation or landscaping work begins. Failing to notify them could result in your policy being voided if something goes wrong during the project. Even minor works can affect your cover, so it's always best to check what’s required well in advance. If you’re having to stay elsewhere while the work is done, your insurer also needs to know your property will be vacant at times.

 

Ensure your building remains covered during the works

Some standard building insurance policies exclude cover during major renovation or extension work. If your current insurer cannot continue to cover or imposes restrictive terms, you may need to arrange a specialist renovation policy to achieve the level of protection required. Don’t assume you're covered - speak with your insurance broker to ensure you are fully protected.

 

Make sure there is contract works cover in place

Contract Works Insurance (sometimes called Works Insurance) protects the new elements of the building while they’re under construction. It can also cover existing buildings if required. Contract Works Insurance can be arranged by you or your contractor, but you should confirm who is responsible before work begins. Without it, any damage to the works (for example, due to fire, flood, theft or other insured risks) may not be covered.

 

Check the contractor’s public liability insurance

Your chosen contractor should carry public liability insurance as standard, but it’s worth checking the level of cover. Most policies offer between £2 million and £10 million in protection but do consider whether the level of protection offered is adequate to meet potential financial exposure. This covers injury or damage caused to third parties (such as a neighbour’s property or passer-by) while work is carried out on your property.

 

Consider non-negligent liability for neighbouring properties

You may need non-negligent liability insurance if your project involves work near neighbouring homes or shared boundaries. This is particularly relevant under the Party Wall Act, as it covers any damage to adjacent properties that arise from the works, even if no one has been negligent. This type of cover can provide vital peace of mind during major structural or excavation works.

 

Protect your contents and valuables

During building works, your home may be more exposed to risks like theft, accidental damage or water ingress. If you're staying elsewhere, or if areas of your home are left unsecured, you may need to move valuable items to safe storage or extend your contents insurance cover. Again, early discussions with your insurer or broker can help you understand your options.

 

Review site security and safety requirements

Be aware that insurers often set conditions around site security during construction. You may be asked to install scaffolding alarms, lockable gates, or secure fencing. Contractors should also be alerted to any insurer requirements to avoid breaching any policy terms. Good security can help to prevent losses and in turn aid in keeping premiums more manageable.

 

Speak to a specialist broker early

Renovations and extensions come with a host of insurance considerations that aren't always covered by standard home insurance policies. At Fidentia Insurance Brokers, we recommend speaking with your broker as early as possible - ideally before any contracts are signed. We have a long track record in supporting homeowners with their property renovation dreams.

We can help ensure you, your property and your investment are fully protected at every stage of the project and bring peace of mind during this exciting development.

To speak to one of our experts, call us at +44 (0) 20 3150 0080 or email info@fidentiains.com to request a callback.