Insuring New Construction on the Eastside

Building a custom home or buying new construction on the Eastside comes with an insurance timeline most people don't realize exists — and getting it wrong can leave a gap right when you're most exposed.

The two phases

During construction: a builder's risk policy covers the structure while it's being built — materials, the partially-built home, and certain site risks. On a custom build, confirm who carries it (you or the builder) and that it's adequate.

At completion / move-in: builder's risk ends and your homeowners policy takes over. Two things matter here:

• Insure to full rebuild cost from day one. New homes are often insured at purchase or contract price, which can lag actual reconstruction cost — especially for custom, high-finish Eastside homes.
• Get the policy in force before closing or move-in. A gap between builder's risk ending and homeowners starting is a real exposure.

What else to line up

1. A high-value carrier if the home warrants it — with replacement-cost guarantees.
2. An umbrella sized to your net worth (often equity-heavy for Eastside tech buyers — see the coverage gap calculator).
3. Scheduled valuables as you furnish.
4. New-home advantages — newer systems and construction can earn favorable terms; make sure they're applied.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need builder's risk insurance for a custom Eastside home? If you own the project during construction, generally yes — builder's risk covers the structure while it's being built. Confirm whether you or your builder carries it.

When should my homeowners policy start on a new build? It should be in force by closing or move-in, as builder's risk ends. Avoid any gap between the two.

Is my new home insured to rebuild cost? New homes are often insured at purchase or contract price, which can understate reconstruction cost for custom, high-finish builds. Confirm the dwelling limit reflects full rebuild cost.

More in this series: Insuring a Luxury Condo in Downtown Bellevue · High-Value Home Insurance in Newcastle, WA

Related: Coverage Gap Calculator → · The Equity-Wealthy Household’s Insurance Guide →

Coverage on the Eastside hinges on both the property and its hazards, so see also Extended vs Guaranteed Replacement Cost and Water Damage vs Flood: What Homeowners Covers.

Trella Insurance is an independent brokerage in Bellevue, WA, serving Eastside new construction. See your coverage gap with the 30-second calculator or request a free review.