These Home Features Can Drive Up Your Insurance
When buying a home, you probably consider things like location, square footage, and curb appeal. But did you know that certain home features can increase your insurance costs? Some upgrades and amenities may seem like a dream—until you see your insurance bill.
Before you buy (or renovate), here are some home features that can cause your insurance premiums to rise.
1. A Swimming Pool or Hot Tub
A pool or hot tub is fun and luxurious, but insurers see them as a liability risk. They increase the chances of injuries, drownings, and even lawsuits.
💡 How It Affects Insurance:
✔️ You may need extra liability coverage.
✔️ Your insurer may require a fence or locked gate for safety.
✔️ Some companies charge higher premiums for homes with pools.
2. An Old Roof or Outdated Plumbing
The older your roof and plumbing, the more risk of leaks, water damage, and costly repairs. Insurance companies love homes with updated systems because they reduce claims.
💡 How It Affects Insurance:
✔️ An old roof may increase premiums or even make it harder to get coverage.
✔️ Outdated plumbing (especially galvanized pipes) can lead to higher rates.
Pro Tip: Before buying, check the age of the roof and plumbing materials—it could save you money in the long run!
3. A Wood-Burning Stove or Fireplace
Cozy nights by the fire sound great, but insurance companies see fire risks. Wood-burning stoves and fireplaces increase the chances of house fires, which means higher premiums.
💡 How It Affects Insurance:
✔️ Some insurers charge extra or require safety certifications.
✔️ You may need annual inspections to keep coverage.
4. A Finished Basement
A finished basement adds living space and value, but it’s also at higher risk for flood damage. Even if you don’t live in a flood zone, insurance companies factor in water damage risks when pricing policies.
💡 How It Affects Insurance:
✔️ You may need additional flood insurance (even if your area doesn’t require it).
✔️ Your insurer may increase coverage limits to account for basement renovations.
5. A Trampoline or Treehouse
Trampolines and treehouses are fun for kids but high-risk for injuries. Some insurance companies won’t cover them at all, while others raise your premiums.
💡 How It Affects Insurance:
✔️ Some insurers exclude coverage for trampoline-related injuries.
✔️ You may need extra liability protection.
6. Certain Dog Breeds
Your four-legged friend could impact your insurance rates—especially if they’re on your insurer’s restricted breed list. Breeds often flagged as high-risk include:
🐾 Rottweilers
🐾 Pit Bulls
🐾 German Shepherds
🐾 Dobermans
💡 How It Affects Insurance:
✔️ Some insurers charge higher liability rates.
✔️ Others may not cover certain breeds at all.
Pro Tip: If you have a large or strong breed, check with your insurer before buying a policy!
7. A Home in a High-Risk Area
If your home is in a flood zone, wildfire-prone area, or tornado region, your insurance costs will likely be higher.
💡 How It Affects Insurance:
✔️ You may need specialized policies (like flood or earthquake insurance).
✔️ Premiums will be higher due to increased risk.
Be Insurance-Savvy!
While these home features can increase insurance costs, they don’t have to be deal-breakers! Just be prepared for potential rate hikes and explore ways to offset costs, like:
✅ Installing safety features (fencing, alarms, sump pumps).
✅ Updating your roof, plumbing, and electrical.
✅ Shopping around for the best insurance rates.