I’m thinking about updating the exterior finish of my home and I’m concerned about potential repercussions from my insurance company. To give you some context, I live in San Diego, California, in a neighborhood developed in the 1960s that’s not rural, and my property backs up to a small canyon. Currently, my house is primarily covered in stucco, with some small brick accents on the front side opposite the canyon. I’m considering replacing the stucco and brick on the front with Hardie cement board siding, which will have the same fire-rating as the stucco.
I’ve heard alarming stories of people getting dropped from their insurance policies without any warning and struggling to find new coverage as a result.
Should I be worried that my insurance company might drop me due to this exterior change? What steps should I take to mitigate any potential issues?
It’s understandable to be concerned about changes to your home and their potential impact on your insurance policy. Here are a few points to consider:
Review Your Policy: Start by reviewing your current insurance policy. Many policies include provisions regarding changes to the exterior and materials used. Look specifically for language about structural changes or modifications.
Contact Your Insurer: Reach out to your insurance company or agent directly before making any changes. They can provide clarity on whether replacing stucco with Hardie cement board siding will affect your coverage. Since Hardie board is generally fire-resistant, it may not negatively impact your insurance.
Document Everything: Keep detailed records of your home’s exterior changes, including permits, materials, and any communications with your insurance company. This documentation will be helpful should any questions arise in the future.
Check Local Regulations: Verify if there are any local building codes or regulations in San Diego that might affect exterior renovations. Compliance with regulations can help ensure your insurer views the changes favorably.
Risk Assessment: Insurance companies assess risk based on multiple factors, including material fire ratings, neighborhood risks, and historical data. Since you’re maintaining or improving the fire rating with your changes, it’s likely seen as a positive step.
Seek Competitive Quotes: If you’re still worried about your insurer dropping you, consider getting quotes from other insurance companies that might offer more favorable terms for your renovations.
Ultimately, communication with your insurance provider is key. Being proactive can help mitigate any potential issues and ensure that your future renovations are well understood and covered.