Renovations started but forgot to amend buildings insurance – risks?

MagicMoneyTree81

Just moved into a new house we’ve bought and started renovation work today.

However, just remembered this morning that my buildings insurance does not cover renovations.

We're doing a knock through and window replacement with patio door. Building control is signing it off for us.

Tried to upgrade with my insurer by phone and they were asking questions and for documentation that could take a couple of days to sort out. Plus it needs to go to the underwriter – who knows how long that could take and it could end in them refusing cover. By that time the work could be nearly finished.

What risks am I running by not getting the cover? (Other than the obvious – not being covered if something goes wrong during works). Happy to get it but is this a problem given the work has already started?

Thanks in advance.

Quentin

Of course it's a higher risk that an incident can happen during the renovation than under the norm which is why normal house insurance isn't valid

See if a local broker (not Swinton) can get you immediate cover