Home was converted to a rental

Action:Notify your insurance agent immediately.

An owner-occupied homeowners policy may need to be replaced with landlord or dwelling coverage.

New tenant moved into commercial property

Action:Tell your insurance agent what business is occupying the building.

Occupancy can affect underwriting and pricing.

Tenant changes business operations

For example:

An office becomes a restaurant or auto repair facility.

Action:Contact the insurer.

A major occupancy change can materially change the risk.

Building becomes vacant

Action:Contact your agent immediately.

Do not assume the existing policy continues unchanged.

Large renovation begins

Action:Tell your insurance agent before construction starts.

Builders Risk or another policy change may be needed.

Lender requests insurance changes

Action:Send the lender's exact requirements to your agent.

They may request:

  • Mortgagee information
  • Lender's Loss Payable wording
  • Specific property limits
  • Deductible limits
  • Flood insurance
  • Replacement Cost
  • Business Income
  • Other endorsements

Commercial tenant requests a Certificate

Action:Review the lease first.

The tenant and landlord may each have separate insurance responsibilities.

Landlord requires tenant insurance

Action:The lease should clearly state the required coverage and limits.

Request updated evidence of insurance when required.

Property has repeated water claims

Action:Correct the underlying problem.

Insurers may request:

  • Plumbing updates
  • Roof repairs
  • Drainage corrections
  • Sump improvements
  • Water sensors
  • Proof of repairs

Repeated losses can significantly affect underwriting.