Building a New Structure on Your Property? Here’s How It Could Affect Your Insurance

Posted on January 30, 2026January 6, 2026 by AgentInsure

Adding a new structure to your property—such as a garage, shed, guesthouse, or workshop—can increase its functionality and value. However, construction changes can also impact your insurance coverage in important ways that property owners often overlook.

Why New Structures Matter to Insurers

Insurance policies are based on the risks associated with your property. When you build a new structure, you change those risks. Additional buildings increase the total value that would need to be rebuilt after a loss, and they may introduce new hazards, such as electrical systems, plumbing, or specialized equipment that insurers need to account for.

Coverage During Construction

Standard homeowners insurance may offer limited coverage while a structure is under construction, but it is often not enough. Materials stored on-site, partially completed work, and liability for injuries during construction may require a separate builder’s risk policy or an endorsement. Failing to notify your insurer before construction begins can leave costly gaps in coverage.

Impact on Dwelling and Other Structures Coverage

Once construction is complete, your policy limits may need to be adjusted. Detached buildings are typically covered under “other structures” coverage, which is often capped at a percentage of your dwelling limit. If the new structure is large or expensive, that limit may be insufficient, requiring a policy update.

Liability Considerations

New structures can increase liability exposure, especially if they are accessible to others. A guesthouse, rental unit, pool house, or workshop can raise the risk of injury claims. You may need higher personal liability limits or an umbrella policy to ensure adequate protection.

How Property Use Affects Insurance

How you use the new structure matters. A personal storage shed is viewed differently than a home office, rental space, or business workshop. Some uses may require endorsements or a separate policy altogether, particularly if income is involved.

At AFI Insurance, We’re Proud To Serve Denver, CO

If you’re looking for a home insurance policy, we’re here to help! At AFI Insurance, we’re proud to serve Denver, CO and surrounding areas. Reach out to our team today to set up an appointment with one of our friendly and knowledgeable agents.

Will my homeowners’ insurance cover my broken mailbox?

Posted on October 31, 2025October 8, 2025 by AgentInsure

Homeowners insurance provides essential protection for many people, offering financial security in the face of unexpected events. It’s best to think of this type of insurance as a collection of coverages designed to protect your home and property. Without it, most homeowners would struggle to cover the costs of damages or losses. Our Denver team at AFI Insurance is dedicated to helping homeowners understand how homeowners’ insurance works and ensuring they get the coverage they need.

What is homeowners’ insurance?

Homeowners insurance is a policy that includes various types of coverage. Primarily, it is designed to protect your property and personal belongings, but it also provides legal and liability coverage. Typically, homeowners’ insurance covers theft, fire, and certain natural disasters. Additionally, it can cover financial losses and pay for alternative living arrangements if your home requires repairs or renovations. This insurance protects your physical home, including its exterior and interior, as well as other structures on your property and your personal belongings.

Will my homeowners’ insurance policy cover the cost of replacing my broken mailbox?

Homeowners insurance generally covers structures on your property, including mailboxes. As a result, your insurance will typically pay for mailbox repairs as long as the damage falls within the scope of your policy’s coverage. The insurance company will determine if the damage meets the requirements for coverage. Most covered events include natural disasters, vandalism, and accidents, such as a vehicle hitting your mailbox. However, other approved events may also be covered.

The AFI Insurance team is dedicated to helping Denver, CO, clients understand the comprehensive range of coverage offered by homeowners’ insurance. We’re here to answer your questions and ensure you get the most benefit from your policy. Contact us today. We’re ready to assist you.

Why Roof Maintence is Important for Home Insurance

Posted on July 15, 2025July 2, 2025 by AgentInsure

When was the last time you checked your roof? If you’re like most homeowners, it probably doesn’t cross your mind until there’s a leak. But here at AFI Insurance in Denver, CO, we’ve seen just how much your roof can impact your home insurance and your wallet.

The Role Your Roof Plays in Coverage

Insurance companies view your roof as one of the first lines of defense for your home. A well-maintained roof helps protect against water damage, mold, and costly structural repairs. If your roof is old, damaged, or neglected, it can raise red flags for insurers. In some cases, it may even affect your eligibility for coverage or result in higher premiums.

A compromised roof increases the risk of claims. When insurance companies see more risk, they often respond with tighter terms or reduced coverage options. On the other hand, demonstrating that your roof is in good condition can sometimes lead to discounts or better policy rates.

Prevention Can Save You in the Long Run

Routine roof maintenance isn’t just about preventing leaks; it’s also about ensuring the roof’s longevity. It’s about protecting your home’s value and ensuring your insurance policy works for you, not against you. Simple tasks, such as clearing debris, replacing worn shingles, and scheduling regular inspections, can go a long way.

If damage does occur, having documentation of maintenance can also help during the claims process. It shows you’ve been proactive, which may strengthen your case when determining the extent of coverage.

At AFI Insurance in Denver, CO, we help homeowners understand the connection between maintenance and protection. If you’re unsure how your roof might affect your home insurance, give us a call. We’re here to keep your home secure.

What You Should Do When Your Home Is Vandalized

Posted on April 30, 2025April 11, 2025 by AgentInsure

A home vandalism incident can occur at any time. It may be a random event, or it may be perpetrated by someone you or a family member knows. Significant damage can sometimes occur in vandalism incidents. Your home insurance policy can help defray the costs of returning your home to a normal condition. At AFI Insurance in Denver, CO, we help homeowners acquire the coverage they need to protect their home investment.

Types of Vandalism Covered By Insurance

Acts of vandalism can cause minor cosmetic damage to a property or can significantly impact the ability to use the property, such as if toxic pollution occurs. Fortunately, your home insurance policy covers such acts and can help defray the costs of restoring your property to normal. Actions such as creating graffiti, smashing windows or doors, arson, cutting trees, salting lawns, and other damage are covered. Most insurance policies will cover damage to property, as well as to personal items.

Steps You Should Take If Your Home Is Vandalized

You should first conduct a thorough assessment of the damage. Take pictures of any damaged areas. You should report the damage to the police. Your report number can then be listed on your insurance claim. You should secure the property to prevent any further damage. If necessary, you should move yourself and other family members to a safe place to assess whether any further actions against you are likely.

Make AFI Insurance Your Agent for Home Insurance Coverage

If you have questions about your home insurance, our experienced agents can provide detailed answers to help you determine if you have the right coverage at the appropriate level. We offer policies for home, auto, life, and business. Contact AFI Insurance in Denver, CO, today for a no-obligation quote on home insurance so that you can defray the costs of a home vandalism event.

How Often Should You Review Your Home Insurance?

Posted on January 15, 2025January 14, 2025 by AgentInsure

As a responsible homeowner, reviewing your home insurance is crucial to protecting yourself and your family. If you live in the Denver, CO, area and need a home policy review, consider contacting us at AFI Insurance. We understand the importance of safeguarding your home and can help you choose the right insurance products. Here’s what you need to know about policy reviews.

The Importance of Home Policy Reviews

Insurance reviews are designed to ensure your protection. During a review, you can update any inaccuracies, adjust your coverage levels, and gain confidence in your policy. Many people renew their existing policy without considering if it’s still the best fit. Regular reviews can help prevent this.

Reviewing Changes in Circumstances

Significant changes in circumstances should prompt a home policy review. These could include home additions or the acquisition of large items like family heirlooms, grand pianos, or swimming pools. While these changes may not necessitate a policy adjustment, a review can help you make an informed decision.

Support Makes a Difference

Even without significant changes, reviewing your home insurance with an agent at least annually is advisable. This ensures you receive the proper support for quality insurance and peace of mind. Contact us at AFI Insurance today if you’re in the Denver, CO area. We can review your policy to ensure you have the coverage you need.

Three Ways to Prepare Your Home For Winter Weather

Posted on October 15, 2024October 8, 2024 by AgentInsure

As winter weather approaches quickly, there are a few things you’ll need to take care of sooner rather than later. Preparing your home for winter will reduce maintenance and protect it from dropping temperatures, snow, and ice.

1. Cover Your Pipes

Covering your pipes keeps them warm and protected against cold weather in the winter. Too many homeowners forget this step or do it later in the winter after the pipes have started freezing. Frozen pipes will not only prevent you from getting water through but can also crack, causing leaks and the need for replacement pipes. Save yourself a lot of stress and money by doing this task first.

2. Clean Your Roof and Gutters

Before the winter months get here, it’s a good idea to clean out your gutters, ensuring no debris is causing a backup and that water can get through the system properly. Once you have that system clean, clean off any debris lingering on your roof so that it doesn’t freeze under the snow and cause your roof to get heavy. If too much weight gets on the roof, it will cause it to collapse, and you need extensive repairs. Nailing down any loose shingles on your roof is also good to keep them intact.

3. Insulate the Attic

If you haven’t already, checking the attic insulation and updating it before it gets cold is a good idea. You want to keep the heat inside your home so you don’t overwork your HVAC system. Too much pressure when the weather gets cold could cause it to malfunction. It will also easily raise your utility expenses. With new insulation, you can keep the warm air inside the home and moisture from the winter weather out.

If you’re looking for home insurance in Denver, CO, and surrounding communities, our team at AFI Insurance is ready to provide you with a personal quote today.

Benefits of Additional Living Expense Coverage on a Homeowner Policy

Posted on July 30, 2024July 15, 2024 by AgentInsure

At AFI Insurance in Denver, CO, we take pride in helping our homeowner clients understand the excellent coverages we offer. Additional living expense coverage comes standard when you purchase a homeowners insurance policy. It is beneficial because it pays for the extra cost (beyond your everyday living expenses) that impacts your family if you are unable to live in your home after a covered loss.

For instance, when a fire or tornado causes damage to your home and makes it uninhabitable, you incur increased expenses due to having to relocate while your home is repaired. So, the additional living expense (ALE) coverage is available to help with costs for extra expenses beyond your typical expenses while you are not able to live in your home. That cost could be for restaurant meals or hotel stays.

Additional Living Expense Covers, What?

Additional living expenses apply when your home is damaged and uninhabitable due to a covered peril listed on your homeowner’s policy.

Some of the most common perils (reasons for your loss) covered on homeowner’s policies include losses due to:

Smoke and fire
Tornado and other windstorms
Falling objects
Vandalism
Explosions
Water damage due to busted pipes
The weight of ice, snow, or sleet

Common expenses reimbursed to you under the additional living expense coverage can include, but are not limited to:

Temporary rentals or hotel fees
Restaurant expenses
The cost associated with boarding a pet

What is the coverage limit for ALE?

Your homeowner’s policy comes with a specific amount of coverage, which is the limit your policy will pay for your extra living expenses. Usually, it is a percentage of the coverage value of the policy you purchased and is only available for a set amount of time.

Get in touch with us today!

You may be a client who has questions about your homeowner policy, or you may be someone who is shopping around and looking for an excellent insurance solution for your home and to protect your family. Either way, we are here to help. Contact us today at AFI Insurance in Denver, CO, or schedule an appointment at (303)433-8888.

We look forward to earning your business.

When Should You Update Your Home Insurance Policy?

Posted on April 15, 2024April 12, 2024 by AgentInsure

At AFI Insurance, we’re committed to helping residents of the Denver, CO, area protect their homes with care for the long term. One way we do that is by reviewing and updating home insurance policies to ensure our clients are properly covered. If you’re in the local area and looking to update your policy, we can help. That will add to your peace of mind and help you enjoy your home more fully, both now and in the future.

Generally, it’s a good idea to update the insurance policy on your home at least once per year or any time you have a significant event in your life that could affect your home. For example, if you add to the space or remodel it, you may want to make updates to your insurance coverage. The goal is to ensure you’re well-protected, and our agents are dedicated to finding ways to help make that easier and more convenient for you.

There’s no reason to settle for less when you have us on your side. Whether you haven’t updated your insurance coverage in a long time or have questions, getting in touch with us is the right choice. We’ll be happy to answer any questions about your current policy and provide quotes from other insurers if you’re thinking about making a change. With us, you have the options and support you need most.

Contact us at AFI Insurance today if you’re in the Denver, CO, area and looking for someone to help update your home insurance policy. Our commitment to you will make the update process smooth and efficient so that you can adequately protect your house and personal belongings. Then, you can enjoy your home.

Home Security Trends That May Affect Your Insurance Policy

Posted on January 18, 2024January 18, 2024 by AgentInsure

Choosing to have security devices installed on your property will prevent theft and vandalism. Consider the following security trends. Then, contact an AFI Insurance agent from Denver, CO.

Smart Devices

Smart devices use technology to operate. These devices require little effort to operate. A property owner can program a smart device from the comfort of their home.

Once the devices are installed, a property owner can monitor the operational status of each device. Smart devices can track movement or record footage of what occurs on the property. Security devices like these will protect a home while it is occupied or unoccupied.

Surveillance Equipment

Surveillance equipment will detect movement on the property. Surveillance equipment can also be used to detect what occurs indoors. This type of equipment alerts an end user when movement has been detected. The alert could prevent a crime from occurring.

Automatic Gates

Automatic gates prevent intruders from trespassing. Automatic gates protect valuables from being stolen. They also increase the safety of children and pets. Automatic gates can be installed along level and unlevel parts of outdoor property.

Upgraded Lighting

Solar lighting or LED lighting can increase visibility in areas that are currently hard to see. The increased visibility may ward off intruders. The new lights will also prevent accidents from occurring. Lights should be installed along driveways, walkways, and other areas that will be driven or walked upon.

Reach out to AFI Insurance

Contact an AFI Insurance agent about the security upgrades that you do. An agent serving Denver, CO, will adjust your insurance policy. The adjustments will reflect the upgrades that have been made.

Stay Protected With Home Insurance

Posted on October 23, 2023October 23, 2023 by AgentInsure

If you own a home, you likely already know that home insurance is highly recommended for you. No matter which type of house you have and where in Colorado it’s located, it needs to be covered by an insurance policy. Without this insurance for even a day, there is a risk that could leave you with severe financial damage. Many things can happen to a home and what’s inside it, and you need to be covered just in case. Call us at AFI Insurance in Denver, CO to get your home insurance policy.

Home Protection

One of the main functions of home insurance is to protect the actual house. These policies cover homes against a broad range of specific risks that can occur and damage a home. If certain accidents, disasters, etc., should happen to a covered house, the policy can pay for the needed repairs. The policy can even pay for rebuilding a home if it gets destroyed in a covered incident. Don’t be without this coverage.

Possession Protection

The policy also covers the items inside the covered home. When something damages the house, it may also damage your possessions. This can be highly expensive to take care of. When you have a home insurance policy, it can pay for the damages and get things replaced. Replacing everything would be prohibitively expensive for many homeowners.

Liability Protection

You’re liable for any accidents that happen on your property. If someone gets injured on your property, your home insurance policy will cover the costs of the accident. This is another important type of coverage that you shouldn’t be without.

Get Home Insurance

If you need a home insurance policy, we can help. Call us now at AFI Insurance in Denver, CO.

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