Updating your home is exciting—whether it’s a new kitchen, an expanded living room, or a backyard pool. But here’s a question many Mississippi Gulf Coast homeowners don’t consider: does my home insurance need to be updated after remodeling or adding a pool? The short answer is yes—and here’s why.
Why Remodeling Affects Home Insurance
When you remodel your home, you’re usually increasing its value. That means the cost to rebuild or repair after a disaster is higher than before. If your insurance coverage hasn’t been adjusted to reflect the new value, you could be underinsured.
For example:
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Adding square footage increases the replacement cost.
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Upgraded finishes (granite counters, hardwood floors, custom cabinets) cost more to replace.
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Home systems like HVAC, plumbing, and electrical improvements may also raise the value.
Pools and Home Insurance: What You Need to Know
Adding a pool is a major lifestyle upgrade—but it also increases risk. Insurance companies view pools as an “attractive nuisance,” meaning they can increase liability exposure. Here’s how a pool can affect your coverage:
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Higher liability limits may be required – in case of injury.
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Fencing, gates, and safety features may be required by your carrier.
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Umbrella insurance is often recommended to add an extra layer of liability protection.
Without updating your policy, you could be left financially responsible if something happens in or around your pool.
What to Do After Remodeling or Adding a Pool
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Contact your insurance agent right away.
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Request a coverage review and update your dwelling coverage limits.
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Consider endorsements for special features like outdoor kitchens, detached garages, or custom finishes.
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Review liability coverage and umbrella options if you’ve added a pool.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: If I just remodeled my kitchen, do I really need to update my home insurance?
A: Yes. Even a kitchen remodel increases your home’s replacement value. If your insurance doesn’t reflect that, you may not get enough money to fully rebuild after a covered loss.
Q: Does adding a pool always increase my premium?
A: Most likely, yes—because pools increase risk. However, the cost of additional coverage is small compared to the potential financial hit of an uncovered claim.
If you’ve recently remodeled your home or added a pool, don’t leave your coverage up to chance. Contact McMurphy Insurance today for a free review and quote. We proudly serve Biloxi, D’Iberville, and the Mississippi Gulf Coast with tailored home insurance solutions that keep pace with your lifestyle.
