Does Builders Risk Cover Houses?
Yes—builders risk can cover a house under construction or major renovation, but existing structures, occupancy, and temporary living costs need specific terms.
Yes, builders risk can cover a house while it is being built or substantially renovated. For a remodel, the policy must distinguish the existing house from new work and contractor-supplied materials.
The Insurance Information Institute advises notifying the homeowners insurer about remodeling and considering builders risk for a larger project. Confirm occupancy conditions, project value, theft terms, any temporary-living-cost coverage, and when permanent homeowners coverage resumes.
Coverage Guides Related to Builders Risk Insurance
Sources for This Answer
- Glossary of Insurance Terms. National Association of Insurance Commissioners; Builders’ Risk Policies; Business Interruption; Commercial General Liability; Contractor Equipment Floaters; Allied Lines. Accessed 2026-09-25.
- Builders Risk Coverage Form. Insurance Services Office, Inc.; hosted by Touchpoint Markets; IH 00 70 05 17, A.1.c and A.2 pp. 1–2; A.3 and A.4 pp. 2–5; A.5 and A.6 pp. 5–8; B.2–3 pp. 10–11; C–E pp. 12–13; copyright 2017, illustrative specimen. Accessed 2026-09-25.
- If You Are Planning to Remodel Your Home, Notify Your Insurance Company First. Insurance Information Institute; Home remodeling advice, item 1. Accessed 2026-09-25.