With spring rapidly approaching, now is the best time to start planning your next home project. A gazebo may be something you’ve thought about for a while. It would be a nice way to enjoy the warm Wisconsin weather and a great place to spend an evening with friends without the bother of bugs or other pests.
Building a gazebo—or completing on any home project, for that matter—can be a major undertaking. Planning is essential to getting the results you want, and for protecting your finances as well. Take the time to find out what it will take to realize your vision and set your expectations accordingly. Read on for tips to get your dreams off the ground—and into your backyard.
Plan Well
Start by searching for your project on the internet. You’ll be surprised at the number of images, how-to lists, and even videos there are to help inspire and guide you. Pay attention to what other homeowners say, too. These are people who have been in your shoes, so their experiences are invaluable. Spend some time reading review sites and learning from their best practices. What’s more, you might want to consider visiting a local home and garden show in the area, where you can speak with experts and vendors who can answer your questions and offer advice.
And when it comes to getting advice, don’t forget your insurance agent. Your spring project is an investment in your home. You will want to make sure you get the proper coverage for your project as well as learn about any special considerations that may impact your project plans. Speak with your agent at the beginning of your planning process because they’re sure to have some valuable insight that can make your project even better. Here are three home project insurance questions you’ll want to ask them:
What is Covered and What’s Not?
Typical homeowners insurance covers your house and any other structures on your property, but that beautiful landscaping you just planted may not be. That’s because insurance doesn’t usually protect the land that your structures are on. There are exceptions, though, so check with your agent about your policy’s specifics regarding trees, shrubs, and landscaping.
Structures – Other or Special?
Most structural projects are covered in your insurance as Coverage B – Other Structures. These are usually garages, tool sheds, and—you guessed it—gazebos! If you are considering an above ground pool with a deck, an inground pool, or a jungle gym with a trampoline for the kids, please make sure to call to discuss as special requirements may apply. Your agent can provide guidance and help you do what needs to be done to maximize your coverage.
Do I Have Enough Coverage?
Coverage for your gazebo might be limited. A standard homeowners insurance policy provides coverage equal to 10% of the amount your home is insured for. If your home is covered for $200,000, for example, then you have $20,000 for your other structures. While many insurance companies provide coverage in excess of 10%, don’t make that assumption. Since a garage and a gazebo are not equal in size or cost, you may need additional coverage to fully insure your project. Give us a call to ensure you have adequate coverage for other structures if you have a large building project in mind.
Include Your Agent In Your Planning
You want to enjoy your new gazebo for years to come. With the proper planning, it can be everything you want it to be. So plan well and be sure to include your insurance agent in your thoughts. We can help guide you so your project is planned out well and is protected for the future.
