5 December 2025

Protecting Your Investment: Insurance for Renovations

By Self Build Zone
Wooden stairs in a building under renovation, with exposed brick walls and unfinished framing.

Renovating your home is an exciting investment, but it also exposes your property and finances to new risks. From structural changes to stored materials and the presence of contractors, even a small mistake can lead to costly setbacks.

The right renovation insurance ensures your project stays protected from start to finish. Use this simple checklist to make sure you have everything covered before work begins.

Renovation Insurance Checklist

  1. Notify your existing home insurer
    Before any work starts, contact your current insurer. Many home insurance policies exclude coverage during renovations, and failing to notify your insurer can invalidate your policy.
  1. Confirm the type of renovation you are undertaking
    Different projects carry different risks, such as:
  • Kitchen or bathroom remodels
  • Loft conversions
  • Garage conversions
  • Structural changes
  • Extensions
  • Full property refurbishments

Knowing the scope helps you secure the right level of cover.

  1. Protect both the existing structure and the new works
    A comprehensive renovation policy should cover:
  • Your current home
  • The areas being renovated
  • Materials and equipment stored on site

This ensures complete protection even in the event of unexpected damage.

  1. Check for essential liability protection
    Look for:
  • Public liability cover
  • Employers’ liability if you hire workers directly

These protect you if someone is injured or property is damaged as a result of your renovation.

  1. Confirm cover for theft, fire, storm damage, and accidental damage
    Renovation work leaves your home more vulnerable. Make sure your policy protects against the most common risks during construction.
  1. Make sure materials and tools on site are insured
    Renovation sites are prime targets for theft. Ensure your policy covers high-value materials, hired equipment, and any tools stored on the property.
  1. Check whether alternative accommodation is included
    If your home becomes uninhabitable due to renovation-related damage, some policies will help cover temporary living costs.
  1. Review policy exclusions carefully
    Check for exclusions relating to:
  • Specialist construction methods
  • Unoccupied property periods
  • Faulty workmanship
  • Certain contractor activities

Knowing this upfront avoids surprises later.

  1. Choose a specialist renovation insurance provider
    A provider such as Self-Build Zone offers tailored insurance that understands the complexities and risks of renovation projects.
  1. Update your policy if your project evolves
    If your timelines shift or costs increase, always update your insurer. This ensures your cover stays accurate and effective.

Renovation insurance is an essential part of protecting your home improvement investment. With the right policy and a clear understanding of your cover, you can move forward with confidence, knowing your project is protected from the unexpected.

 

A man in a hard hat and orange vest surveys a self build site, shielding his eyes—think site insurance.

Renovation Insurance Myths vs Reality

Let’s protect your renovation project today. Get in touch with Self-Build Zone to learn how our specialist renovation insurance can safeguard your project and give you total peace of mind.

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