How to Review Your Home Insurance Policy Like a Pro Before Renewal Season

Written By Joel Goldman

Renewing your home insurance soon? Don’t just auto-renew without reading the fine print, especially in 2025, when rebuild costs are soaring and extreme weather is becoming the norm.

At Starisks Insurance, we help homeowners avoid costly surprises by empowering them to understand their policy before signing on the dotted line.

Here’s how to confidently review your policy, without needing to be an expert.

family in a new home

1. Rebuild Cost ≠ Market Value

You might think your insurance is enough because your home is “covered for what you paid.” But here’s the truth: what your home is worth and what it costs to rebuild are two very different numbers.

Thanks to inflation and supply chain issues, rebuild costs have jumped 30–40% in many areas since 2020.

What to check:

  • Is your dwelling coverage based on current local construction costs?

  • Does it include demolition, debris removal, and architectural/code upgrade fees?

  • When was your rebuild estimate last updated?

2. Understand What Your Policy Doesn’t Cover

Insurance is full of fine print—and some of the most common risks homeowners face aren’t covered by default. These are often listed as “exclusions” on your declarations page.

Common exclusions to look for:

  • Flood damage

  • Sewer or sump pump backups

  • Earthquake damage

  • Termites and pest infestations

  • Mold, gradual leaks, or maintenance-related damage

If your area is prone to any of these, ask your broker about optional endorsements or separate policies.

3. Check Your Deductibles (They Might Be Higher Than You Think)

Here’s a sneaky surprise many homeowners miss: policies now often include separate deductibles for named storms or wind damage—and they’re not your standard $1,000.

Key things to review:

  • Do you have a flat deductible or a percentage-based deductible (e.g. 2% of your home’s insured value)?

  • Is there a separate hurricane, windstorm, or earthquake deductible?

  • Can you afford the out-of-pocket cost before coverage kicks in?

4. Don’t Assume Your Valuables Are Fully Protected

Most standard policies put low caps on valuables—even if you paid thousands for them.

Typical coverage limits:

  • Jewelry: $1,500–$2,500 total

  • Electronics: Around $2,500

  • Art, musical instruments, collectibles: Minimal unless specifically listed

Solution: Add scheduled personal property coverage for high-value items. This often comes with no deductible and broader protection (even mysterious disappearance!).

5. Evaluate Your Additional Living Expenses (ALE) Coverage

If your home becomes unlivable after a fire, flood, or storm, ALE coverage pays for things like hotel stays, meals, and temporary housing.

Check for:

  • Is your ALE limit realistic for your city’s cost of living?

  • How many months of expenses does it cover?

  • Are pets or temporary relocation expenses included?

6. Ask These Questions Before You Renew

Even if your policy seems solid on paper, a quick conversation with your broker can uncover major gaps.

Ask your insurance advisor:

  • What perils are excluded from my policy?

  • Do I have replacement cost or actual cash value coverage?

  • Does my policy include service line, ordinance/code upgrade, or cyber protection?

  • Is my liability limit high enough for today’s risks (at least $300,000–$500,000)?

  • Are there new discounts I qualify for (smart home tech, security systems, new roof, etc.)?

Bonus Tip: Don’t Skip the Add-Ons

Some of the most affordable endorsements can save you thousands—and they’re often overlooked.

Smart add-ons worth asking about:

  • Service line coverage – Repairs underground pipes and cables

  • Ordinance or law coverage – Pays for building to updated code

  • Loss assessment coverage – Important if you live in an HOA

  • Cyber protection – Helps if your smart home or identity is compromised

Pro Move: Create a Home Inventory

One of the best things you can do during renewal season? Document your belongings.

Use your phone to record video walk-throughs of each room, capture serial numbers, and keep digital receipts. If you ever file a claim, this can help you get reimbursed faster—and more accurately.

Final Thoughts: Insurance Isn't About Luck, It's About Preparation

Your home is likely your biggest investment. Don’t let a 5-minute auto-renewal cost you tens of thousands later.
Take time to review your coverage, ask smart questions, and update what matters.

Need a second set of eyes? At Starisks Insurance, we’re here to help you break down your coverage.

Joel Goldman
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