Home insurance may not be the most exciting part of owning a home—but when you need it, it becomes one of the most important. At the Geiger Stern Team, we know that owning a home in Westchester County is a major investment, and keeping your insurance policy up to date helps protect that investment from the unexpected.
Whether you’ve completed renovations, added safety features, or your local risk factors have changed, your policy should reflect your current home and lifestyle. So when’s the right time to take a closer look? The answer: whenever there’s a big change in your home or your circumstances.
Let’s walk through when and why to review your coverage—and how to potentially save on premiums in the process.
Why You Might Need to Update Your Home Insurance
As your home evolves, so should your insurance. Major renovations, like a kitchen expansion or finishing the basement, can increase your home’s value and raise the cost to rebuild in case of damage. Without updating your policy, you could be underinsured and facing out-of-pocket costs after an incident.
On the flip side, making safety upgrades—like installing a security system or replacing an old roof—might qualify you for a discount. Reviewing your policy regularly helps you stay protected while possibly lowering your monthly premiums.
Top Home Projects That Could Affect Your Coverage
Here are some common home improvements in our area that often require a policy update:
Kitchen Remodel
If you’ve added high-end appliances, custom cabinetry, or luxury materials like quartz or marble, your home’s replacement cost has likely gone up. Updating your policy ensures your investment is protected.
Roof Replacement
Certain roofing materials, like impact-resistant shingles or metal, may qualify for discounts. But if you chose high-end slate or tile, your policy should reflect the increased value.
Adding a Pool
Pools are popular in all over Westchester County, but they come with added liability. Fences, safety covers, and alarms can reduce risks—but you’ll still want to increase your liability coverage.
Finishing a Basement
Turning your basement into a living space increases your home’s value and may require added protection for water backup or mold risk.
Renovations That Could Lower Your Insurance Premium
Not all updates raise your costs—some can actually save you money:
Upgrading electrical systems from outdated wiring to modern circuits can reduce fire risk and lower your premium.
Adding impact-resistant roofing materials help guard against storm damage and may qualify you for discounts.
Installing a professionally monitored smart security system can make your home more secure and potentially earn you a discount.
Replacing old plumbing with modern materials like copper or PEX can help prevent leaks and water damage claims.
Westchester County-Specific Considerations
Every region has its own set of risks—and our area is no different.
- Heavy snow and ice in the winter can cause roof damage and frozen pipes. Make sure your policy covers winter-related issues.
- Homes near the Hudson River or Long Island Sound may require flood insurance, as standard policies typically don’t include flood protection.
- Older, historic homes may require specialized repair coverage. If your home features original materials or custom craftsmanship, check your policy’s rebuild terms.
- Wind and tree damage from storms is common in our area. Ensure your coverage includes debris removal and roof repair.
We're Here to Help!
Your home is more than a structure—it’s your sanctuary, your family’s gathering place, and one of your most valuable assets. Keeping your insurance policy current ensures you’re financially protected no matter what comes your way.
If you’re unsure whether your current policy is keeping up with your home’s value and improvements, we can connect you with a trusted insurance professional. At the Geiger Stern Team, we’re here to help you protect your investment—now and for the future.
Thinking of making a move or upgrading your home? Contact The Geiger Stern Team.
