One of the most common conversations I have with Bay Area homeowners starts with a simple question: When was the last time you actually reviewed your home insurance policy?
For many people, the answer is when they bought their home. But homes change. We remodel kitchens, update bathrooms, add living space, buy valuables, and make improvements — while construction and rebuilding costs keep changing around us.
For homeowners in Piedmont, Berkeley, and Montclair, where many homes have unique architecture, custom finishes, and decades of history, an occasional insurance checkup is worth the time.
Here are seven questions I encourage homeowners to ask:
- Is my home insured for what it would cost to rebuild today?
The price you could sell your home for is not necessarily what it would cost to rebuild it. Labor, materials, architectural details, debris removal, and current construction requirements all play a role. Your dwelling coverage should be based on rebuilding costs, not simply your home’s market value.
- What has changed since my policy was written?
Think about the improvements you’ve made over the years. Did you remodel the kitchen? Add a bathroom or ADU? Upgrade flooring, cabinetry, or other finishes? Those changes may affect the estimated cost of rebuilding your home.
- Do I really understand my water damage coverage?
This is an important one. A sudden plumbing leak, long-term seepage, and sewer or drain backup aren’t necessarily treated the same way by an insurance policy. Don’t wait until you have water in the house to learn how your coverage works.
- What happens if I can’t live in my home after a covered loss?
If repairs take months — or longer — where would you live? Loss of Use or Additional Living Expense coverage may help with increased living expenses while your home is being repaired or rebuilt. It’s worth knowing your policy’s limits before you need them.
- What about the things inside my home that are especially valuable?
Jewelry, watches, artwork, collectibles, and other higher-value belongings may have coverage limitations. If you own items that would be difficult or expensive to replace, ask how your policy would respond to a loss.
- Is my liability coverage appropriate for what I own today?
Your homeowner’s policy also provides personal liability protection. As your assets and financial responsibilities grow, your liability needs can change too. This is also a good time to ask whether an umbrella policy makes sense for your household.
- When was my last full insurance review?
If you can’t remember, that’s probably your answer.
An insurance checkup isn’t automatically about buying more coverage. It’s an opportunity to understand what you already have, ask questions, identify potential gaps, and decide whether your coverage still fits the home and life you have today.
Protect the Home You Have Today
Your home is more than the day you purchased it. Over the years, you improve it, personalize it, and make it your own. Taking a little time to review your insurance can help make sure the coverage you chose years ago still reflects what you’re protecting today.
Odalis Ordonez, Agency Owner
Odalis Ordonez Insurance Agency
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