What are typical insurance cost increases after adding square footage in Ottawa?

Adding square footage usually means your home insurance will change, because insurers generally base coverage on what it would cost to rebuild the house, and a bigger house costs more to rebuild. How much your premium changes depends on your insurer, your policy and the addition itself, so the only reliable figure is a quote from your own insurer or broker.

What insurers look at. The size of the addition is one factor, but the type matters too. A new bathroom or kitchen adds plumbing, and water damage is a concern for insurers. A wood-burning fireplace or stove can affect your premium or require extra coverage. A sunroom with no plumbing may have less impact beyond the added floor area. Location can matter as well, for example if the property is in an area with flood risk.

Tell your insurer before construction starts. Ask your insurer or broker what they need to know about the project and whether your policy covers the house during construction. Not disclosing a major addition can create problems if you later make a claim. Many insurers offer coverage for the construction period that addresses risks such as theft of materials or weather damage to open framing. Ask what it costs and what it covers.

Ask about the contractor's coverage too. Ask each contractor for a certificate of liability insurance, and ask whether they have WSIB coverage or are exempt. That protects you if someone is hurt on site or your property is damaged during the work.

Build quality helps. Additions built under a permit, inspected and finished to current standards are easier to insure. Keep copies of your permit, inspection records and the final drawings, because your insurer may ask for them.

Look for offsetting improvements. If the project includes upgrades that reduce risk, such as a new electrical panel, updated plumbing, a sump pump with a backup, or a monitored alarm, tell your insurer. Some insurers offer discounts for these, which could reduce the net increase.

Shop around. Before you start, get quotes from two or three insurers or a broker. Your contractor can give you the projected floor area, construction details and timeline that insurers need to quote accurately. You can browse addition contractors in the Ottawa Construction Network directory at justynrookcontracting.com and compare quotes for the project itself.

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Looking for experienced contractors? The Ottawa Construction Network connects homeowners with qualified professionals:

• 613Bins
• JC Carpentry
• Valcor Construction
• ALM Construction & Landscaping Inc.
• Demontigny Carpentry