DIY projects can add personality and value to your home, but not every improvement is a good idea. Some home modifications can actually make your house uninsurable, putting your investment and peace of mind at risk. Home insurance companies look closely at changes that may increase risk or violate building codes. If you’re not careful, your latest weekend project could leave you without coverage when you need it most. Before you grab your toolbox, it’s important to understand which DIY tricks could jeopardize your home insurance policy.
1. Unpermitted Electrical Work
Electrical upgrades might seem simple enough—maybe you want to add a few outlets or install new lighting. But if you skip permits and inspections, you could be making your house uninsurable. Insurance companies rely on local codes to ensure safety. Unpermitted electrical work increases fire risk and can void your policy if a claim arises. Even if your DIY work seems flawless, insurers may deny coverage if they find out it wasn’t done by a licensed professional or wasn’t inspected.
Always check with your city or county before starting electrical projects. Getting the right permits protects you and keeps your home insurance intact.
2. Removing Load-Bearing Walls
Open-concept living spaces are popular, but removing a load-bearing wall without professional help is risky. This type of structural change can weaken your home’s integrity, leading to sagging floors or even collapse. Insurance companies want to know that your house is structurally sound. If they learn that you’ve made major changes without consulting an engineer or getting permits, they may refuse to insure your property.
Even if you don’t see immediate problems, hidden damage from improper demolition can surface years later. If an adjuster finds evidence of unauthorized work during a claim, your policy could be in jeopardy.
3. DIY Plumbing Modifications
Fixing a leaky faucet or replacing a showerhead is typically safe for DIYers. But rerouting water lines, installing new bathrooms, or making major plumbing changes without a licensed plumber can make your house uninsurable. Water damage is one of the most common and expensive claims. Insurers want assurance that your plumbing meets code and won’t fail unexpectedly.
Unpermitted plumbing can also lead to mold, leaks, and even sewage backups. If you’ve made changes and can’t provide proof of proper installation and inspection, your home insurance provider may see your house as too risky to cover.
4. Installing Wood Stoves or Fireplaces
Adding a wood stove or new fireplace might seem like a cozy upgrade, but improper installation is a red flag for insurance companies. These features dramatically increase fire risk, especially if they don’t meet current codes or manufacturer guidelines. Insurers often require documentation that wood stoves and fireplaces have been installed and inspected by certified professionals.
If you install a wood-burning appliance yourself and a fire occurs, your insurer may deny your claim. Worse, they might cancel your policy altogether. Always consult your provider before making these changes, and get the right permits and inspections to avoid making your house uninsurable.
5. Building Unpermitted Additions
Adding a sunroom, garage, or extra bedroom can boost your home’s value—but only if it’s done legally. Unpermitted additions are a top reason insurance companies refuse to cover a property. These structures might not meet safety codes, and insurers won’t want to take on that risk. Even if you did the work yourself and it looks perfect, a lack of permits is a big problem.
If an accident or structural issue happens in an unpermitted area, your insurance company may refuse to pay for repairs. Before starting a major addition, always check local regulations and get the right approvals. This keeps your home insurable and your investment protected.
6. DIY Roof Repairs
Roof repairs are expensive, so it’s tempting to fix leaks or replace shingles yourself. However, DIY roofing jobs can make your house uninsurable if they don’t meet code or manufacturer guidelines. Insurance companies are wary of improperly installed roofs, since they’re a major factor in storm and water damage claims.
A poorly repaired roof can also void warranties and cause issues that aren’t visible right away. If your insurer finds out that you did your own roof work without permits or inspections, they may drop your coverage or deny future claims. When it comes to your roof, it’s best to hire a licensed pro and keep all documentation.
What Insurance Companies Want to See
Insurance companies want to know your home is safe and up to code. Major DIY projects—especially those involving structure, electrical, plumbing, or fire risk—should always be permitted and inspected. If you’re unsure what’s required, check with your local building department or consult a licensed contractor.
Before starting a project, talk to your insurance provider to see how changes might affect your policy. Some companies may have specific requirements or exclusions for certain types of work.
Keeping your home insurable protects your investment and gives you peace of mind. Have you ever run into insurance issues after a DIY project? Share your experience in the comments!
What to Read Next…
- 9 Things That Will Immediately Void Your Homeowners Insurance
- 7 DIY Home Repairs That Are Illegal In Some States But Most Don’t Know It
The post Are These DIY Tricks Making Your House Uninsurable? appeared first on Clever Dude Personal Finance & Money.
