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Planning a renovation — whether you're rebuilding after a claim, adding more space, or finally updating that kitchen — is exciting. But every project, big or small, can affect your homeowners insurance.
At Top O' Michigan, we want your coverage to keep up with your life. The right renovation can qualify you for new discounts, change how much protection you need, or in some cases change how a future claim is handled. So before you pick up a hammer (or open Pinterest), here's what's worth knowing.
Insurance Is a Conditional Contract — Here's Why It Matters
A homeowners policy is a conditional contract. In plain terms: if you do X, the insurance company does Y — it pays for covered losses, as spelled out in your policy. When you take on a home project, certain updates or new risks can shift what your policy requires, or how it responds if something goes wrong.
That's why it's worth giving your agent a heads-up before you start. A few projects that should prompt a quick conversation:
- Adding a pool or hot tub
- Finishing a basement
- Building an addition
- Major kitchen or bathroom remodels
- Installing a wood stove or fireplace
- Upgrading electrical, plumbing, or roofing
- Adding smart-home security or water-detection systems
Some of these lower your risk (and may lower your premium); others raise it (and may call for extra liability or structural coverage). Your agent can walk you through the details so nothing slips through the cracks.
Even with careful planning, damage can happen mid-project. If it does, here's how to protect yourself — and your claim.
1. Protect: Prevent Further Damage
Most homeowners policies require you to take reasonable steps to keep a bad situation from getting worse — this is called mitigating the loss. That means:
- Making temporary repairs (like tarping a roof or shutting off the water)
- Protecting damaged items from weather or theft
- Keeping receipts for any emergency expenses
▎ Important: You're not required to make permanent repairs right away. Stick to temporary, protective measures until the adjuster gives you guidance.
2. Report: Notify Your Agent Promptly
Once everyone's safe, reach out to your agent or carrier as soon as you can. Be ready to share:
- Where the loss occurred
- A clear description of what happened
- What appears damaged or missing
- Any temporary measures you've taken
- Any expenses you've already had
From there, you'll work with the adjuster, who may ask for invoices, photos, estimates, or other documentation. Having it ready keeps your claim moving and protects you if any liability questions come up.
3. Repair: Get Estimates and Choose Your Contractor
Insurance companies don't schedule contractors or book repairs for you, though they may hand you a list of preferred vendors. You're free to use anyone you trust, as long as they're qualified.
One important note: only the claims adjuster can authorize payment or approve repair work. Your Top O' Michigan team will advocate for you, help you understand each step, and stay in touch with the carrier — but we can't approve repairs or issue payment without the adjuster's authorization.
Plan Ahead: The Key to Smooth Recoveries
A little preparation makes all the difference. Before a loss ever happens, put together a simple emergency plan for your household that covers:
- How to shut off your utilities
- Family communication and meeting points
- A list of trusted contractors
- Where important documents live (digital copies are ideal)
- An annual review of your home inventory and photos
If you own a business, a fuller continuity plan should also include:
- Risk assessments
- Evacuation procedures
- Backup locations for operations
- Vendor and contractor lists
- Prioritized business functions and recovery timelines
We're Here to Advocate for You
At Top O' Michigan, we represent you — the insured. Our goal is simple: to help get your claim settled fairly, efficiently, and accurately. We advocate to help make sure the insurance company pays what's owed under your policy, so you can get back to normal as quickly as possible.
If you're planning a renovation, or you're just not sure how your next project might affect your coverage, reach out. We'll help you review your policy, update what's needed, and keep your protection evolving right along with your home. Give us a call at 800-686-8664 or email Service@TheSpireTeam.com.