How Can a Home Remodel Affect My Homeowners Insurance?

Ray Cogan

Before Doing a Home Remodel, Consider Your Homeowners Insurance.

Summer is right around the corner and homeowners all over Maryland and the DMV are hiring home contractors to do major and minor home remodeling projects. 


Before doing a home remodel, you may want to consider the impact it may have on your homeowner's insurance. Home improvements may affect your insurance coverage and premiums, so it's crucial to understand how your homeowners policy may be affected. *** 


Here are several ways a home remodel can impact your homeowners insurance: 


  1. Increased Property Value. Upgrades such as kitchen renovations, cabinet refinishing, bathroom remodeling such as new tubs, fixtures, and commodes, adding extra square footage, or repainting the interior or exterior of your home can enhance the overall value of your home. Notify your insurance agent about these improvements so that your coverage aligns with the increased value. If you don’t do it, it may result in being underinsured and having insufficient coverage if there is a loss.
  2. Coverage limits changes. A home remodel may mean that you need to change your homeowner’s insurance coverage limits. As the value of your property increases, you may need to adjust the coverage limits on your homeowners insurance policy. This adjustment ensures that your policy provides sufficient coverage to rebuild or repair your home in case of damage or loss.
  3. Added Coverage for Renovation Materials. During a home remodel, your property may have expensive materials and equipment on-site, increasing the risk of theft or damage. Some homeowners insurance policies may not automatically cover these renovation materials. Check with your insurance provider to determine if additional coverage is needed during the remodeling process to protect these items.
  4. Temporary Relocation Coverage. You may also need to temporarily relocate during construction. So, review your homeowner's insurance policy to understand if it provides coverage for additional living expenses (ALE) during the relocation. ALE coverage reimburses you for costs such as hotel stays, meals, and other expenses incurred while you are unable to occupy your home.
  5. Liability. Home remodeling projects involve contractors and subcontractors working on your property. They need to have appropriate insurance coverage, including general liability and workers' compensation. Getting proof of insurance from contractors protects you from liability in the event of accidents or injuries that occur during the renovation process.
  6. Safety Measures and Upgrades. Some home remodels are safety improvements, such as fire sprinkler systems, security systems, or updated electrical and plumbing systems. These upgrades can lower the risk of potential accidents or losses, and they may qualify you for insurance discounts. Contact your insurance provider to discuss these safety measures and potential premium reductions.
  7. Specialized coverage for unique features. Your home remodel may include unique features or high-end upgrades, such as custom-built structures, swimming pools, or luxury finishes. These items must be adequately covered. Specialized coverage is required to protect these unique features from damage, theft, or other risks. 
  8. Home Insurance Premiums. A home remodel can affect your homeowners insurance premiums. Some renovations may increase your premiums due to the added value and potential risks associated with the changes, certain upgrades, such as installing a security system or upgrading your roof, may qualify you for discounts. Consult with your insurance provider to understand the potential impact on your premiums before proceeding with a home remodel.

A home remodel has numerous impacts on your homeowners insurance. Disclose to your insurance agent before and during the renovation process so that your policy aligns with the changes to your home and adequately protects your investment. By updating your coverage limits, considering additional coverage for renovation materials, understanding liability concerns, and exploring potential premium discounts, you can navigate through the home remodel with the homeowner’s insurance coverage that you need. 

For more information on home remodeling coverage and how it can be covered under your homeowners policy, contact our licensed and experienced insurance consultants at Lindquist Insurance. We can review your coverage with you and make sure your home is fully covered. Call (301) 694-0008 for an appointment. 

We serve the Annapolis, MD, and Frederick, MD areas. 


*** For more information on home improvements, visit the Montgomery County MD website. 

dock in Annapolis MD
By Ray Cogan June 10, 2025
Whether you're grilling in the backyard in Annapolis or planning a mountain getaway from Frederick, our team is just a phone call or email away. Let’s have that conversation now, so your summer, and every season after, is secure. Contact us today for an appointment with our experienced insurance specialists. Serving Annapolis and Frederick, MD
employee taking inventory
By Ray Cogan May 26, 2025
At Lindquist Insurance, we offer personal, proactive service that keeps you focused on growth, not guesswork. Whether you're expanding, hiring, or just refreshing for the season, we’re here to ensure your business is covered from every angle. Call us today at (301) 694-0008 or visit www.lindquistinsurance.com to schedule your Spring Business Insurance Checkup. We serve the Annapolis and Frederick, MD area.
By Ray Cogan May 12, 2025
Spring brings longer days, blooming landscapes, and unpredictable weather for businesses in Annapolis and Frederick, Maryland. Storms in the Mid-Atlantic can bring heavy rain, flooding, hail, and strong winds, often leading to costly damages for business owners. That’s why now is the perfect time to evaluate your business insurance coverage and ensure you’re protected against the unique seasonal risks spring brings. *** Why Spring Storms Matter to Maryland Business Owners Maryland's spring weather is known for its volatility. Sudden thunderstorms, high winds, and localized flooding can affect both coastal towns like Annapolis and inland areas like Frederick. In 2022 alone, several businesses in Frederick County experienced power outages and property damage due to intense spring storms. Similarly, businesses near the Chesapeake Bay face storm surges and flash flooding, especially during early-season weather systems. For local businesses—from boutique shops in downtown Annapolis to industrial warehouses near Frederick’s tech corridor—spring weather disruptions can mean more than just cleanup. They can lead to business interruptions, loss of inventory, and expensive repairs. How Business Insurance Can Help Business insurance is a critical safeguard that provides financial protection when natural disasters strike. But not all policies are created equal. Understanding the specific coverages that protect against spring-related risks can make a big difference when it matters most. Here are the top types of business insurance you should review this season: 1. Commercial Property Insurance. This is the foundation of most business insurance policies. It covers your physical assets, such as your building, equipment, and inventory, if they’re damaged by covered perils like wind, hail, or lightning. If a windstorm damages the roof of your downtown Annapolis storefront or flooding ruins inventory stored in your Frederick warehouse, commercial property insurance helps cover repair and replacement costs. Be sure to check if your policy includes flood protection. You may need to purchase separate flood insurance, especially in flood-prone areas near the Chesapeake Bay. 2. Business Interruption Insurance. Also known as business income insurance, this coverage kicks in if your operations are forced to shut down due to storm-related damage. It covers lost income, payroll, rent, and other operating expenses during the downtime. Imagine a storm causes structural damage to your Frederick café, requiring you to close for two weeks. Business interruption insurance can help you stay afloat financially until you reopen. 3. Equipment Breakdown Insurance. Spring storms can lead to power surges and electrical issues, which can damage your essential equipment, like refrigerators, HVAC systems, or point-of-sale terminals. Equipment breakdown insurance helps cover the cost of repair or replacement, so your operations don't have to close temporarily. This is crucial for restaurants, retail shops, and healthcare facilities in Annapolis and Frederick that rely on specialized machinery. 4. Commercial Auto Insurance. If your business uses vehicles for deliveries, transportation, or service calls. Make sure your commercial auto insurance includes comprehensive coverage. This protects your vehicles from non-collision-related damages, including those caused by hail, fallen trees, or flooding. Local fleets operating between Annapolis and Frederick are especially vulnerable during spring travel, when roads may be slick or obstructed. 5. General Liability Insurance. Spring storms sometimes lead to unexpected hazards, like a slippery floor or fallen debris outside your storefront, that can cause injury to customers or passersby. General liability insurance covers medical costs, legal fees, and settlements if someone gets hurt on your property. This type of coverage is essential for public-facing businesses, such as those located along the bustling streets of Annapolis or in Frederick’s historic downtown district. Take These Steps Now to Stay Protected Review Your Policy with a Local Agent. Insurance needs vary depending on location, business type, and risk exposure. A local agent, like the experienced team at Lindquist Insurance, can assess your current coverage and suggest any needed updates tailored to the Annapolis and Frederick regions. 1. Document and Protect Your Assets. Take an inventory of your equipment, supplies, and property. Back up digital records and store documents off-site or in the cloud. This speeds up claims processing in the event of a loss. 2. Create a Spring Storm Preparedness Plan. Include emergency contact lists, backup power sources, evacuation procedures, and a communication plan for employees and customers. 3. Schedule an Annual Insurance Checkup. Use the changing season as a reminder to reassess your business insurance needs. Your business evolves—and so should your protection. At Lindquist Insurance , we’re proud to serve the business communities of Annapolis and Frederick, MD. Our goal is to help you weather any storm with confidence, knowing you’re covered where it counts. Whether you run a waterfront shop in Annapolis or a growing service business in Frederick, our team is ready to help you find the right business insurance solutions for the spring season and beyond. Contact our business insurance specialists today for a free business insurance review or call us at (301) 694-0008 or visit www.lindquistinsurance.com. *** For more information on Maryland weather, visit the Weather US website .
heavy traffic Lindquist Insurance
By Ray Cogan April 28, 2025
At Lindquist Insurance, we’re here to help you with your car insurance now and in the future. If you're thinking about switching your car insurance and live in Frederick, Annapolis, or Washington, DC, now is the perfect time to reach out. At Lindquist Insurance, our friendly local agents make the process simple, fast, and tailored to you. We’ll compare top providers, explain your options, and guide you every step of the way. Call Lindquist Insurance today at (301) 694-3008 or visit www.lindquisinsurance.com to request a free, no-obligation quote. We serve the Frederick, MD, Annapolis, MD, and Washington, D.C. areas.
young female driver
By Ray Cogan April 15, 2025
We offer car insurance in Frederick. We work with first-time drivers to find a policy that fits their needs and budget without sacrificing the coverage needed to drive confidently.
alarm clock and money - Lindquist Insurance
By Ray Cogan March 25, 2025
Our insurance agent in Frederick can save you time and money. We can navigate the complexities of insurance, ensuring you get the best coverage at the most affordable rates.
cop pulls woman over
By Ray Cogan March 10, 2025
Can you get car insurance in Frederick and surrounding areas with a poor driving record? Learn what you need to know about getting insurance with a less-than-perfect driving record.
engagement ring in red box
By Ray Cogan February 26, 2025
Your insurance agent in Frederick plays a pivotal role in safeguarding your valuables and ensuring that your cherished possessions and loved ones are well-protected.
couple at Valentine's Day dinner
By Ray Cogan February 18, 2025
Our insurance agency located in Frederick can help couples safeguard their assets, protect their loved ones, and ensure financial stability. Contact Lindquist Insurance today!
More Posts