It’s recommended to review your insurance policy annually or whenever significant life changes occur, such as making home improvements or upgrades, getting married, or purchasing expensive items. Regular reviews ensure your coverage aligns with your current needs and circumstances, providing peace of mind and adequate protection.

There are four events that should trigger a review of your policy:

1. When your policy comes up for renewal

Don’t just automatically send a check to your insurance company. Take the time to review your coverage and call your agent with any questions or concerns that you may have regarding your homeowners insurance.

Ask yourself the following questions:

  • Has the insurance company made any changes in coverage since last year?
  • Does my policy now include a separate deductible for risks like hurricane or hail?
  • Should I raise the deductible to save money?
  • Am I taking advantage of all available discounts?
  • Do I need to raise the amount of coverage for liability, personal possessions or the structure?
  • Should I comparison shop for a cheaper rate?
  • Do I need flood, earthquake or an umbrella policy?

2. When you’ve made major purchases or home improvements

If you have made any major purchases, make sure that you have the proper coverage. And, don’t forget about gifts. If you have received a diamond engagement ring or if a member of your family has bought you expensive artwork or a computer, talk to your agent about either increasing the amount of insurance you have for your personal possessions or purchasing a floater/endorsement for these items. A floater will give you higher and broader coverage for these items than you have under your homeowners policy.

If you have made major improvements to your home, such as adding a new room, enclosing a porch or expanding a kitchen or bathroom, you risk being underinsured if you don’t report the increase in square footage to your insurance company. Don’t forget about new structures outside of your home. If you have built a gazebo, a new shed for your tools or installed a pool or hot tub, you need to speak to your agent. Keep receipts and records in case you need to forward copies to your insurance company.

3. When you’ve made your home safer

If you have installed a state-of-the art fire/burglar alarm system or upgraded your heating, plumbing or electrical system, make sure that your insurance company knows about these improvements. You may qualify for a discount.

4. When you experience major lifestyle changes

Marriage, divorce, or adult children who move back into the family home, can all affect your homeowners insurance. When people move in or move out, they take their belongings with them. And you may need additional coverage if there is a sizable increase in the value of the belongings in your home.

Starting a home-based business can also trigger changes in your coverage. You will need to get additional coverage for business liability and equipment. If the business is your primary source of income, you may need a Businessowners Package Policy (BOP). You may also need professional liability coverage, which is excluded under in-home business and businessowners policies. For more information, see Business Insurance.

Source: Insurance Information Institute

Read Other Blog Posts

Deer Sign

Road Safety and Wildlife: What Drivers Need to Know

Every year, countless accidents occur because drivers aren't prepared for unexpected encounters with animals on the road. Whether it's a deer darting across a rural highway or a stray dog wandering into city traffic, these moments can be dangerous for both humans and animals. Staying alert and understanding how to respond in these situations can make a critical difference in preventing harm and keeping roads safer for everyone.
Quest for the Best 2025

We Did It Again! 5-Time Gold Winners in Quest for the Best

We’re proud to announce we’ve won Gold in MyFM 101.3’s Quest for the Best – Insurance Category for the 5th year in a row! Thank you to everyone who voted and continues to support us. If you're a client, we’re grateful for your trust. If you’re looking for a second opinion, we’d love the chance to earn your business.
Happy driver

The Benefits of Raising Your Limits

An overwhelming majority of states require individuals to carry insurance in order to operate a vehicle. While meeting these minimum limits may be enough to get you on the road, they may be inadequate if you are involved in a serious accident. For better protection, you may want to consider raising your limits to secure proper protection.
Murphy Insurance Team

27 Reasons to Work with Murphy Insurance Agency

For more than 88 years, Murphy Insurance Agency has been a trusted partner for families, individuals, and businesses across Massachusetts. As a family-owned and independent agency, we prioritize relationships over transactions, offering guidance and support tailored to your needs. With access to more than 25 top-rated carriers, we deliver personalized solutions, competitive options, and peace of mind. Discover 27 reasons why thousands have chosen Murphy Insurance to protect what matters most.
Personal Article Floater

What Is a Personal Article Floater—and Do You Need One?

Many people assume that their home or renters insurance covers all their personal belongings—but it's not always that simple. While these policies do offer significant protection, there are usually limits, especially when it comes to high-value or one-of-a-kind items. If you own something valuable, rare, or that you often take with you, you may want to consider adding a personal article floater to your coverage.
Home Fall Prep for Winter

Fall Into Home Prep: Smart Projects to Help You Avoid Winter Insurance Claims

Fall is the perfect time to tackle home maintenance projects before winter sets in. Use our seasonal checklist to protect your home, prevent costly damage, and keep everything running smoothly—inside and out.
Living room

Renting Out Your Home? Here’s What You Need to Know About Liability and Insurance

Renting out your home—whether short-term or long-term—can provide extra income but also introduces legal and insurance risks. Before listing your property, it's essential to research local laws, use a clear rental agreement, screen tenants carefully, and ensure your insurance policy provides the right coverage. Taking steps like securing valuables, documenting your home’s condition, and staying accessible can help protect your property and minimize potential issues.
Ashley Pu Calderon and Wayne Texeira

Working with Co-op Students Yields a Mutually Beneficial Experience

As summer winds down and the next academic year approaches, we at Murphy Insurance Agency are both proud and a little wistful as we say goodbye to Ashley Pu Calderon, our most recent co-op student from Assabet Valley Regional Vocational Technical High School. While we’re sad to see her go, we’re incredibly excited for her as she begins her college journey
College Students 1200

Headed to College? Don’t Forget About Insurance

Whether it’s freshman year or senior year, sending a student off to college is a big deal. Between class schedules, dorm shopping, moving day, and maybe a few emotional goodbyes, there’s a lot going on. With so much happening, it’s easy to overlook things like insurance. But here’s the thing: insurance should definitely be on your college checklist, because being covered can save you time, money, and major stress down the road.

Visit Our Personal Insurance Page

Personal Insurance

Life is an ever-changing journey, and it deserves a thoughtful, comprehensive plan to protect the things and people that matter most. Our dedicated team at Murphy Insurance is here to assist you in creating that plan. With a wide range of product options at our disposal, we ensure that your plan is tailored precisely to your requirements. Our commitment to providing clear, intelligent guidance to help you achieve true peace of mind. Learn more about our personal insurance portfolio.