Home Insurance and Renovation: The Ontario 2026 Essential Guide
Major renovations can void your coverage. Know what to tell your insurer before starting.
Vacancy Clause
Home unoccupied 30+ consecutive days = standard policy may be void.
Solution: Request a vacancy permit from your insurer BEFORE starting. Adds a modest premium, maintains coverage.
Material Changes Disclosure
Must notify insurer before:
- Load-bearing wall removal
- Adding square footage
- Adding a rental suite (occupancy change)
- Structural additions
Failure to disclose = policy may be voided at claim time – even years later if the renovation is connected.
Contractor Injury on Your Property
If contractor has no WSIB and a worker is injured on your property, your home insurance may be implicated.
Prevention: Verify WSIB clearance for every contractor BEFORE they start.
Rebuild Value Update
After major renovation, your rebuild cost increases. Underinsurance = your problem at claim time.
Action: After project completion, update your coverage amount to reflect new rebuild value. Get a rebuild cost estimate from your insurer or a quantity surveyor.
Pre-Renovation Checklist
- Call insurer – describe scope and timeline
- Request vacancy permit if home will be unoccupied 30+ days
- Request renovation endorsement for structural work
- Confirm contractor insurance requirements
- Plan to update coverage after project completion
LF Builders helps clients navigate insurance requirements: lfbuilders.ca
Insurance experience sharing: home.renovation.reviews
Samm Simon 251 KM for cancer: sammsimon.ca