Home insurance: rebuilding
Rebuilding? Cover the project, then your home.
While your home is under construction, a regular homeowners policy usually doesn't fit. We'll help you cover the build and line up a homeowners policy for when you move back in.
What usually goes wrong
- The lot or the project goes uninsured while plans are in permitting.
- Coverage during construction is too small or starts on the wrong date.
- There's a gap between the end of construction and the new homeowners policy.
How we handle it
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Step 1: Review where you are.
Permitting, construction start, expected completion, and your construction lender if you have one.
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Step 2: Place coverage for the build.
This is often called builder's risk or course of construction coverage. We also look at liability coverage for the lot.
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Step 3: Line up your homeowners policy before completion.
So it starts the day you need it, with no gap after construction ends.
What to have ready
- Your construction contract or budget
- Your contractor's name and insurance certificates
- Expected start and completion dates
- Your lender's insurance requirements, if you have a lender
Don't have everything? Start anyway.
Timeline
Every step is planned back from your date.
- Plans and permitting
- Coverage for the build in place
- Construction
- Homeowners policy lined up
- Completion and move-in
Common questions
Can you help if my home is still being rebuilt?
Yes. We can help with coverage during construction and a homeowners policy when it's finished.
Can you send proof of insurance to my lender and escrow?
Yes. Tell us who they are, and we'll send it directly.
What is the California FAIR Plan?
It's California's insurer of last resort for property owners who can't find coverage in the regular market. Its basic policy covers fire, lightning, smoke, and internal explosion, so most homeowners pair it with a DIC policy for things like liability, theft, and water damage.
What is surplus lines insurance?
Coverage from insurers that aren't licensed by California but are allowed to cover homes that licensed insurers decline. These policies aren't backed by the California Insurance Guarantee Association, and you'll get a required state notice before you buy. We'll explain the tradeoffs before you decide.
Have a date coming up?
Tell us what's happening and when. Your broker will reply within one hour on business days.