Spring is here. The time is perfect to plan your next home improvement project. You’ve had that old cyclone fence for a long time, haven’t you? You’d like to have a fence that’s more pleasing to the eye, but you want some more privacy in your backyard. You want it to be sturdy, but you’re not sure if you want a wooden one. So where do you start? Keep reading for some tips to help you answer your questions and make your new fence—or whatever project you have in mind—a reality.
Get Informed
From fences to toolsheds to patios, bringing any spring project to life takes careful planning. You might be tempted to “jump in” and get moving right away, but take the time to learn as much as you can about your options. This will help ensure you get exactly what you envision while investing your money properly.
Begin the process by doing your homework. Research your ideas online, searching for images, videos, and how-tos. Read customer reviews and learn what you can from the experiences of other people who have taken on similar projects. For more face-to-face support, visit a local home and garden show in the DePere and Green Bay, WI, area. Springtime shows bring out vendors and other experts who can provide all the inspiration and information you need.
And don’t forget to keep your homeowners insurance in mind. Your project, after all, is an improvement to your home. It adds value, so you will want to make sure it’s protected. With that in mind, here are three spring home project insurance considerations to discuss with your agent:
Will my Project be Covered?
Homeowners insurance typically covers your house and other structures on your property, but not the land itself. Gardens, landscaping, and retaining walls may not be covered, but there are exceptions. Speak with your agent about what exactly is covered in your policy.
Other Structures vs. Special Structures
Most projects are covered by your insurance policy as “Other Structures.” They are sometimes referred to as Coverage B – Other Structures. Examples of these structures include garden sheds, garages, gazebos, and decks. But there are others that are classified as “Special Structures” because they pose a potential risk. These are the fire pits, pools, and outdoor kitchens that usually require special underwriting review. If you’re putting in a pool, for instance, you may need to build a fence around it before your policy can cover it.
Coverage All The Way
There are coverage limits in your typical homeowners insurance policy. Your spring project may be 10% of the amount your house is covered for. So if you have $200,000 of coverage for your house, then you have $20,000 for any other structures on your property. But not all structures are created equal. A garage is more expensive than a fence or a gazebo, so you may need extra coverage to make up the difference. Check with your agent about getting the coverage you need for your project and purchase more, if necessary.
Consult Your Agent
You’re going to put in a lot of money and effort into your spring project, whatever your vision entails. You want it to be the best it can be, and you want to enjoy it for many years. Plan your project thoughtfully and don’t forget to include your insurance agent in the conversation. They’ll have valuable input that will help guide your project planning and ensure it’s protected for years to come.
