Insurance restoration
Code Upgrades
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Building codes change over time, and repairing damaged property may require work that wasn't part of the original construction. Understanding code upgrade coverage can help homeowners prepare for repairs when current building codes apply after a covered loss.
What Are Code Upgrades?
Building codes are updated regularly to improve safety and construction standards. When repairing damage after a covered loss, some repairs may be required to meet current building codes rather than the codes that were in effect when the home was originally built.
Does Insurance Cover Code Upgrades?
Some insurance policies include Ordinance or Law Coverage, which may help pay for certain code-required upgrades after a covered loss. Coverage depends on your policy and the specific circumstances of the claim. Your insurance company determines whether these additional costs are covered.
Why Code Upgrades Matter
Even when damage appears straightforward, required code improvements can affect the scope of work, project cost, permitting, and construction timeline. Identifying these requirements early helps homeowners better understand the repair process.
How Riverbend Helps
Riverbend Renovation considers applicable building code requirements while preparing repair scopes and coordinating permits. When code-required work is identified, we document those requirements so they can be reviewed as part of the overall repair process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Please reach us at info@riverbendrenovation.com if you cannot find an answer to your question. Looking for additional guidance? Visit our Insurance Claim Resources page to explore all of our insurance claim guides.
What is Ordinance or Law Coverage?
Ordinance or Law Coverage is an optional insurance coverage that may help pay for certain costs associated with bringing damaged property up to current building codes after a covered loss. Coverage varies by policy.
Will my insurance automatically pay for code upgrades?
Not necessarily. Whether code-required work is covered depends on your policy and the specific coverage you carry. Your insurance company determines coverage.
Who determines if code upgrades are required?
Code requirements are typically determined by the local building authority during the permitting and inspection process.
What if my older home doesn't meet today's building codes?
Many older homes were built under previous building codes. If repairs trigger current code requirements, certain upgrades may become necessary before the project can be completed.
Can code upgrades increase the cost of repairs?
Yes. Meeting current building codes may require additional labor or materials beyond simply replacing the damaged components.
Does Riverbend help identify code requirements?
Yes. Riverbend reviews repair scopes with current building requirements in mind and documents code-related items that may affect the project.
More claim resources
How a home insurance claim works
The claim process end to end.
Storm Damage Claims
Roofing, siding, windows and interior finishes after a storm.
Water Damage Claims
Leaks, pipe breaks, appliance failures and flooding.
Fire Damage Claims
Stabilisation, smoke damage and structural repair.
Emergency Response
What to do in the first hours after a loss.
Hidden Damage
Damage that only appears once demolition starts.
Dealing with a loss right now?
We can walk the property, document the damage, and write the repair scope your claim needs.