So, you’ve finally decided to renovate. Maybe you're knocking down a few walls to open up the kitchen, giving your bathroom a glow-up, or even going the whole hog with a full-blown extension. Exciting stuff! But before the sledgehammers start swinging and the tradies roll in, there’s one important thing many Aussies forget to sort out: home insurance.
Yep, it’s not just about paint colours and tile samples—your home insurance needs to be up to scratch too. Let’s break it down so you can get on with your reno with peace of mind (and avoid any nasty surprises along the way).
Most standard home insurance policies cover your house as is—meaning the moment you start making changes (like tearing out a kitchen or putting in a new roof), things get a bit murky. Some policies have exclusions for renovations or won’t cover accidental damage caused during building works. Worse still, some insurers might refuse a claim if they weren’t notified about the works in advance.
So, before you even think about ordering that freestanding tub or artisan splashback tiles, give your insurer a ring and let them know what you’re planning. That simple call could save you a heap of heartache (and money) down the track.
When renovating, your insurance needs will depend on the size and type of the job. Here’s a quick rundown of the key policies to consider:
For minor renovations—think painting, new flooring, or cabinetry—you’ll likely just need to update your existing policy. Make sure your sum insured reflects the new improvements, especially if they add value to your home.
Pro tip: It’s also worth checking if your policy covers temporary accommodation in case your home becomes unliveable during works.
For bigger jobs—like structural changes, extensions, or anything that needs council approval—you may need a specialised renovation insurance policy. This can cover:
Accidental damage
Fire or storm damage during the works
Theft of building materials
Vandalism or malicious damage
This type of insurance is often required by your lender if you’re still paying off a mortgage.
If you’re managing the reno yourself as an owner-builder, you’ll definitely want public liability insurance. It protects you in case someone gets injured or their property is damaged during your project.
Let’s face it—tools, scaffolding, and unpredictable weather can be a risky combo. Don’t leave it to chance.
This one’s typically taken out by licensed builders or tradies, but it’s worth asking your contractor if they have it in place. Contract works insurance covers the build from start to finish—including weather events, theft, and accidental damage.
If your tradie doesn’t have it, it might be worth rethinking who you hire. (And yes, you can find fully insured tradies on ServiceSeeking.com.au—more on that in a bit.)
When hiring tradies—whether it’s a plumber, sparky, or carpenter—you want to make sure they’ve got their own insurances sorted. At a minimum, your tradie should have:
Public liability insurance
Workers’ compensation insurance (if they have employees)
Licensing and registration for your state
Hiring uninsured or unlicensed tradies might save you a few bucks upfront, but if something goes wrong, you could be left footing the bill—or worse, facing legal drama.
That’s why it pays to hire through a trusted platform like ServiceSeeking.com.au, where you can compare quotes from verified, reviewed, and insured tradies. You can even check credentials upfront, so you know you’re hiring someone legit.
✅ Notify your insurer of planned works
✅ Update your sum insured if needed
✅ Confirm your tradie’s insurance and licences
✅ Ask if they have contract works insurance
✅ Get your quotes and paperwork in writing
Renovating is one of the most exciting things you can do as a homeowner—but it’s also a time when you’re taking on extra risk. A bit of prep now can save you a lot of stress later, especially when it comes to insurance. Don’t assume you’re covered—double-check, and make sure your tradies are on the level too.
Need help finding qualified, insured pros who won’t leave you high and dry? Head over to ServiceSeeking.com.au. You’ll find electricians, builders, tilers, painters—you name it. All ready to quote, with real reviews and credentials you can check before committing.
Because when it comes to renovations, peace of mind is just as important as good design.