Spring is coming up—and there’s no better time to start planning that spring project you’ve been thinking about all winter. A backyard patio would be the perfect place to lounge around when the weather gets warm, enjoying friends and family, not to mention a spot for cooking up your favorite recipes on the grill. You can see it in your mind’s eye, but how do you make it a reality?
Creating your dream patio is no small task. Like any home project, it takes a considerable amount of planning to do it right. But taking the time to “cover your bases” will have long-lasting benefits for you, your home, and even your wallet. Continue reading for how you can keep your project on course.
Plan, Plan, Plan
You need to start by getting as much information as you can, searching the internet for ideas and advice. You’ll find plenty of images, how-to lists, and customer reviews offering firsthand homeowner experiences from people just like you. For more personal guidance, visit a local home and garden show. In Springfield, MO, the Ozark Empire Event Center hosts shows like these where you can talk to vendors and seek answers from experts in home improvement. They can all help you make the best decisions for your project.
But you must not forget your insurance needs. A home project adds value to your home, and insurance is there to protect your investment—so make sure you have the right coverage in place. Here are four spring home project insurance considerations to keep in mind:
Know What’s Covered
Home insurance typically covers your house and other buildings on your property, but not necessarily the land. Gardens, landscaping and extensive lawn work may not be covered in your policy, but there are exceptions. Speak with your agent about your project and get the specifics of your policy.
Define “Other Structures”
Additions to your property are usually covered in your policy as an “Other Structure,” also known as Coverage B – Other Structures. Examples include gazebos, tool sheds, and patios. If your project includes one of these, it’s important to know how your policy defines it.
Check your Coverage Limits
“Other Structures” may not be adequately covered. Many policies offer coverage for 10% of the amount your home is covered for. So, if you have $200,000 coverage for your house, then you have $20,000 for other structures. A garage may require more coverage than a patio, so make sure you’re getting the full value covered. Check with your agent and inquire about additional coverage, if necessary.
Consider “Special Structures”
Finally, some projects can be classified as a “Special Structure.” Pools and fire pits are examples of these, as they usually require some special considerations when underwriting your policy. A pool, for instance, may require a fence in order to be covered by your policy; likewise, the addition of a fire pit outside of your home may need to include some special safety features. It’s very important to consult your agent when planning additions like these.
Speak with your Agent
That patio is going to take a lot of planning, and you want it to be just right. After all, you want to enjoy it for many summers to come, so give it all the consideration it deserves and make sure it’s covered in your insurance policy. Contact Tagge Insurance and share your plans and ideas.
