Introduction to Policy Add-Ons
A standard homeowners policy covers a lot—but not everything. In many cases, important protection is missing unless you’ve added it intentionally.
That’s where endorsements (also called riders) come in. These optional add-ons expand your coverage to better fit your lifestyle, home features, and personal property. In 2025, with rebuilding costs and risk exposure on the rise, homeowners in New York can’t afford to overlook them.
This guide breaks down the most valuable endorsements to consider, when they make sense, and how to add them to your current policy.
What Are Endorsements and Riders?
How They Expand Protection
Endorsements let you customize your policy by adding coverage for specific items, risks, or structures that aren’t fully protected under the base policy. This allows for better alignment with your actual needs.
How They Work with Standard Policies
Rather than replacing your main policy, endorsements attach to it and provide extra protection—often for a small increase in premium. Some fill in coverage gaps, while others raise limits or broaden definitions for specific risks.
Top 5 Recommended Add-Ons
Water Backup
Covers damage caused by sump pump failure, sewer backups, or drain overflows. Without this endorsement, any resulting damage is typically excluded from standard policies.
In areas like Westchester with older plumbing and high water tables, this coverage is a smart investment.
Equipment Breakdown
Protects your home systems and appliances against electrical surges, mechanical failure, and more. Think HVAC systems, dishwashers, smart thermostats, and laundry machines.
It’s like having a home warranty built into your insurance—often for just a few dollars a month.
Scheduled Valuables
Most standard policies cap jewelry, fine art, watches, or collectibles at $1,500–$2,500. Scheduling these items gives you higher limits and broader protection, including mysterious disappearance or accidental loss.
If you own an engagement ring, sports memorabilia, or luxury watches, this is worth a conversation.
Home Business Endorsement
Running a business out of your home? Most homeowners policies don’t cover business property or liability.
This endorsement can cover things like office equipment, inventory, and even client-related liability, helping home-based entrepreneurs stay protected.
Ordinance or Law Coverage
When rebuilding after a covered loss, updated building codes can require costly changes. Standard policies only pay to replace what was lost—not to bring your home up to current code.
This endorsement covers the extra expense, which can be significant in older homes.
When Are Add-Ons a Smart Move?
Common NY Homeowner Scenarios
- Finished basements prone to water issues
- Older homes requiring code upgrades
- High-value personal items (jewelry, art, instruments)
- Home-based businesses or side hustles
- Upgraded appliances or smart home tech
Premium vs. Protection Trade-Off
Endorsements are often inexpensive—some cost less than $10/month—but they can save you thousands in the event of a claim. The small premium increase is a worthwhile trade-off for peace of mind.
How to Add Them to Your Policy
Talk to Your Agent
Endorsements aren’t one-size-fits-all. A local independent agent can help evaluate your needs and identify the most valuable coverage for your situation.
At JWI Group, we regularly review policies for opportunities to close coverage gaps and explain your options in clear, helpful terms.
Annual Policy Review Best Practices
Even if your coverage was adequate a few years ago, life changes—so should your insurance. Reviews are especially important after:
- Renovations or upgrades
- Large purchases
- Starting a business from home
- Adding new valuables
- Moving into an older or historic home
Final Thoughts
Customize for Peace of Mind
Your home is one of your largest investments. Don’t settle for a “standard” policy that may leave gaps when you need coverage the most. The right endorsements provide affordable, targeted protection that reflects how you actually live.
✅ Learn How Endorsements Can Help
We’ll walk through your current policy and highlight areas where a simple add-on could make a big difference.