Having Proper Coverage on Your Homeowner's Insurance Policy
What is Code Upgrade Coverage and Why is it Important?

When comes to protecting your home, having the right homeowner's insurance coverage is essential. Not only does it provide peace of mind, but it also ensures that you are financially protected in case of unexpected damage or necessary repairs. One critical aspect of this coverage that often gets overlooked is code upgrade coverage. At Colorado Front Range Roofing, we want to make sure you understand the importance of this coverage and how it can save you from significant out-of-pocket expenses.
What is Code Upgrade Coverage?
Code upgrade coverage, sometimes referred to as ordinance or law coverage, is an insurance provision that pays for the extra cost of bringing your home up to current building codes after a covered loss. Building codes can change over time, and if your home is damaged and needs repairs, your existing structures may need to be updated to meet the latest standards. This coverage ensures that these necessary updates are covered by your insurance policy.
Why is Code Upgrade Coverage Important?
Without code upgrade coverage, homeowners may be held liable for the costs associated with bringing their homes up to current building standards during construction or repair projects. This is especially common during roof replacements. For example, if your roof's decking is not up to code, we at Colorado Front Range Roofing cannot proceed with installing new shingles. The cost to re-deck the roof to meet code requirements can be substantial, and without the proper insurance coverage, this expense would come out of your pocket.
Real-World Example: Roof Replacement and Decking
Imagine a scenario where your roof has been severely damaged by a storm, and you need a full roof replacement. During the inspection, it’s discovered that the decking, which serves as the foundation for your roofing materials, does not meet current building codes. Before any new shingles can be installed, the decking must be brought up to code. If you do not have code upgrade coverage, the cost of re-decking the roof would be an additional expense you hadn’t planned for.
However, if you have code upgrade coverage included in your homeowner's insurance policy, these costs would be covered. This means you wouldn't have to worry about the extra financial burden, and the necessary work can proceed smoothly, ensuring your new roof meets all current standards and regulations.
How to Ensure You Have the Right Coverage
- Review Your Policy: Take the time to read through your current homeowner's insurance policy. Look for any mention of code upgrade coverage or ordinance and law coverage.
- Contact Your Insurance Agent: If you’re unsure whether your policy includes this important coverage, contact your insurance agent. They can provide you with detailed information about your policy and help you make any necessary adjustments.
- Upgrade Your Coverage: If you find that your current policy does not include code upgrade coverage, consider adding it. While it may slightly increase your premium, the benefits far outweigh the potential costs you could incur without it.
- Regularly Update Your Policy: Building codes and regulations change over time. Regularly updating your insurance policy ensures that you remain covered for any new code requirements that may be implemented.
Conclusion
Having the proper coverages on your homeowner's insurance, including code upgrade coverage, is crucial for protecting your home and your finances. At Colorado Front Range Roofing, we encourage all homeowners to review their insurance policies and make sure they have the necessary coverages in place. By doing so, you can avoid unexpected expenses and ensure that your home remains safe, secure, and up to code during any repair or replacement projects. If you have any questions or need further assistance, feel free to contact us. We’re here to help!





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