That is a recipe for disaster # (Upbeat music playing) # Well, your home is your biggest investment and you want to protect it and you want to enjoy it

There are things you might not even realize that you're doing that can jeopardize your home insurance coverage So, here are five major mistakes that can affect your home insurance that you'll want to avoid Number one: failing to get the right permits when you're renovating Now, certain renovations require building permits by law and if you're not sure how to get them, just contact your local building and planning department It's actually a lot easier than you think and it's worth every penny

Number two is hiring a professional for a renovation who is not licensed, not bonded, and doesn't have liability insurance Doesn't sound like much of a professional SARAH: Another mistake is adding an income suite or starting a business from your home without first consulting with your insurance provider Don't forget, if a renovation increases the replacement value of your home such as a new addition or even an appliance upgrade, make sure you let your insurance provider know Basically if you're gonna spend a ton of money on your house and increase the value and you don't notify your insurance provider, how can you expect your insurance provider to insure you for that additional amount? Just let them know

SARAH: Another mistake is leaving your house while on vacation with no one to check on it Pipes can burst and then go weeks with water damaging both your home and its contents So, it's simple Just have someone check on your home while you're away to keep your house safe, and it also may be required by your insurance company Basically, the best way to avoid any surprises is to just work closely with and talk to your insurance advisor

Just talk to them, that's all you have to do Pick up the phone Or send them an email You can also text them (Laughing) #