Insurance for Properties Under Renovation

Planning renovation work? Whether it’s your home or a commercial site, we arrange specialist cover to for your property throughout the build.

Contact us for your tailormade insurance quote for properties under renovation

More About Insurance for Buildings Under Renovation

Renovating a property changes its risk profile and often leaves standard insurance policies falling short. Whether you’re upgrading your own home or overseeing work on a commercial site, we arrange insurance that properly covers your building during structural works, extensions, conversions and more.

Renovation insurance is essential for any property undergoing significant change. Fire, flood, theft, accidental damage, even liability risks—all become more complex once works begin. Many standard insurers will restrict or cancel cover once the builders are in.

At Chubb Thomas, we help homeowners, landlords, developers and property managers look after what’s already there, and what’s being added. Our policies are tailored to reflect the size, duration and scope of the works, giving you real peace of mind from start to finish.

With our team of independent brokers based in Bournemouth, we offer real advice, not call centre scripts from a local broker you can trust and a policy that works.

Talk to our team about your insurance needs 

Renovating a Home or Personally Owned Property?

If you’re extending your house, converting a loft, adding a basement or carrying out major internal works, we can arrange insurance to cover the existing structure, the works being undertaken and your liabilities.

Cover can include:

The existing structure during the renovation period
Contract works (including materials and works being undertaken)
Public liability and employers’ liability
Optional contents cover if you're still living at the property
JCT contract compliance where required
Flexible policies whether the property is occupied or vacant
Contractor as joint policyholder

We also support renovations on second homes, listed properties or homes in non-standard construction. Speak to our team before the work starts to make sure your cover is valid from day one.

Renovating a Commercial or Investment Property?

Whether you’re a developer, landlord or managing agent, renovation works on commercial premises or buy-to-let properties carry specific risks. We work with insurers who specialise in commercial property renovations.

Cover may include:

Structural cover for buildings during renovation
Property owners’ liability (£2 million or more)
Cover for unoccupied buildings under renovation
Option to add legal expenses
Compliance with JCT contract conditions (if applicable)

We’ll take into account your project timeline, building type, occupancy status and contractual arrangements. Whether it’s a shop conversion, office fit-out, flat reconfiguration or a multi-unit investment project, we’ll find the cover that fits.

Talk to our team about your insurance needs 

Why Choose Chubb Thomas?

Truly independent insurance broker based in Bournemouth, with no corporate ties
Insurance quotes tailored to your needs, across Dorset and surrounding areas
Speak directly to your dedicated contact—no call centres, no waiting
Work with your key person from start to finish
Insurance quotes tailored to your needs, across Dorset and surrounding areas
Fair fees and transparent advice every step of the way
Independent and unbiased—we’re not tied to any insurer, so you always come first
A reputation for excellence, delivering insurance services locally since the early 1980s.

Contact us for your tailormade insurance quote

FAQs

Why do I need specialist renovation insurance?

Most standard property insurance becomes invalid or restricted once building works begin. Renovation insurance ensures you stay properly covered throughout the project.

What counts as a renovation for insurance purposes?

Anything involving structural changes, significant internal alterations or work that impacts walls, roof or floors. Even loft conversions or extensions can trigger the need for specialist cover.

Does the policy cover both the existing structure and the works?

We can arrange cover for both the current building and the contract works being carried out, including materials stored on site. However, the main contractor usually arranges cover for the contract works.

What if my property is unoccupied during the works?

No problem—we can arrange suitable unoccupied property cover with the right conditions in place. Just let us know during the quote

Do you cover listed buildings under renovation?

Yes. We work with insurers experienced in insuring listed and period properties during refurbishment or structural works.

Can I get cover if I’m doing the work myself?

Yes, but it may limit some of the liability or contractors’ elements of cover. Speak with us and we’ll walk you through what’s available.

What is JCT contract cover and do I need it?

JCT (Joint Contracts Tribunal) insurance is often required for contracts involving builders. If your contractor has asked for this, we’ll make sure your policy complies.

Can you arrange cover mid-project?

Yes, though it’s easier (and often offers more insurer options) to set it up before work starts. If you’re partway through, we can still help.

Is there a limit on how long the cover can run?

Policies can be arranged short- or long-term depending on the length of your works. We’ll tailor the cover to match your project timeline.

Why choose Chubb Thomas for renovation insurance?

We offer clear, local advice with no generic policies. Whether it’s a personal project or a commercial development, we’ll find the right cover and stay with you throughout. We’re a truly independent Dorset broker offering real advice, not scripts.

Do I need employers’ liability insurance?

You must get employers’ liability (EL) insurance as soon as you become an employer – your policy must cover you for at least £5 million and come from an authorised insurer.

The definition of an employee is someone who has a contract with you. In the contract, their role, responsibilities and pay are clearly defined. The contract usually states the work hours, obligations, holiday allowance and other employee benefits. In other words, an employee works under your control and direction, and you are contractually obliged to provide them with regular work and pay them a salary. You still need employers ‘ liability insurance, even if your staff are part-time or temporary. If you are unsure, please contact our office and we can discuss in further detail.

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Trusted Dorset Insurance Broker

We’re a truly independent Dorset broker offering real advice, not scripts. offering tailored insurance quotes across Bournemouth, Poole, Weymouth, Dorchester and beyond. Whether you need personal, property or business cover, we deliver clear advice and a personal service every step of the way.