Life can change quickly and when it does, your insurance coverage should keep up. Reviewing your insurance policy at least once a year helps ensure that your family, home and belongings remain properly protected.

What is an insurance review?

An insurance review is a detailed evaluation of your current coverage — including policies for your home, vehicles, and valuable possessions.

By working with an experienced insurance agent, you gain access to professional guidance on coverage options tailored to your unique situation. Your agent can help identify gaps, recommend updates, and ensure you’re getting the best protection for your needs.

When should you review your insurance policies?

While an annual review is recommended, certain events or life changes should also prompt you to take a closer look at your insurance coverage.

1. When your policy is up for renewal

Before you automatically renew your policy, take time to review your current coverage and ask your agent key questions, such as:

• have there been any changes in coverage since last year?
• does my policy now include separate deductibles for risks like hurricane, wind, or hail damage?
• would increasing my deductible lower my premium?
• am I receiving all available discounts?
• should I adjust my liability or personal property coverage limits?
• do I need additional coverage such as flood, earthquake, or umbrella protection?

Taking a few moments to review your renewal could help you identify better coverage options or save you money.

2. After major purchases or home improvements

Significant purchases or upgrades to your home can affect your insurance needs.

If you’ve bought valuable items such as jewelry, artwork, or electronics, talk to your agent about adding a floater or endorsement to ensure these items are fully covered.

Likewise, home renovations like adding a new room, remodeling your kitchen, or building outdoor structures such as a shed or pool can increase your property’s value. Notify your insurance company so your coverage reflects these changes. Keep receipts and documentation for reference. Taking a few moments to review your renewal could help you identify better coverage options or save you money.

3. After making your home safer

Installing new safety features can not only protect your family but may also lower your insurance premiums.

If you’ve upgraded your home’s security or added features such as:

• a monitored fire or burglar alarm
• updated plumbing or electrical systems
• would increasing my deductible lower my premium?
• a new heating or sprinkler system

…be sure to let your insurer know. You may qualify for valuable policy discounts.

4. When you experience major life changes

Major life events can have a big impact on your insurance needs.

Marriage, divorce, or adult children moving in or out can change the value of your possessions and who needs coverage under your policy.

Starting a home-based business is another important milestone that may require additional protection. You may need:

• Business liability coverage for accidents or damages
• Equipment coverage for tools or electronics
• a Businessowners Package Policy (BOP) if your business is your primary income source
• Professional liability coverage, which is not typically included in standard homeowners or businessowners policies

Discuss these situations with your agent to make sure you have the right protection.

Why regular reviews matter

If it’s been more than a year since your last insurance review — or you’ve experienced a major life change or made significant purchases — now is the perfect time to evaluate your coverage.

Regular reviews help you:

• keep your protection aligned with your lifestyle
• identify cost-saving opportunities
• avoid being underinsured in the event of a loss

Protect what matters most

At Armed Forces Insurance, our mission is to protect those who protect our nation. Whether you’re reviewing an existing policy or looking to update your coverage, we’re here to help you make informed decisions.

Armed Forces Insurance — Our Mission Is You ®

Armed Forces Insurance was founded in 1887 by military leaders with a single mission: to protect the property of those who protect our nation. We offer premium quality, competitively priced property and casualty insurance to military professionals throughout the United States and overseas. Armed Forces Insurance understands that its members have unique circumstances and insurance needs, enabling the company to offer a level of personalized service that's unequalled in the industry. For more information, visit www.afi.org and follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, X and Instagram.