Many homeowners assume their standard policy protects them from just about anything, only to learn during a claim that some of the priciest risks require extra add-ons. These optional protections — known as riders, endorsements, or floaters — are easy to miss but can make a huge difference when unexpected damage occurs.

As natural disasters grow more frequent and homes continue to age, these add-ons have become even more important. Flooding now accounts for the majority of natural disasters in the U.S., building regulations are increasingly strict, and even a minor seismic shift can create damage your basic policy won’t touch. With more people owning high-value items, running home-based businesses, and working remotely, reviewing your coverage each year is one of the smartest financial steps you can take.

Below are several riders worth exploring — and why they’re so valuable.

1. Flood Insurance and Water Damage Protection

A traditional homeowners policy usually does not include flooding from external sources or water damage that isn’t sudden. If your property is located in an area prone to flooding, a separate flood policy is essential. In some high-risk regions, lenders even require it. But with flood events becoming more widespread and unpredictable, many homeowners outside designated flood zones also face significant risk. Adding a water-backup endorsement can further protect you from sewer or sump-pump failures and groundwater issues.

Flood coverage through FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) typically costs around $899 annually and covers up to $250,000 for the structure and $100,000 for personal belongings. Private insurance companies may offer higher limits or faster claim resolution, which is especially useful where rebuilding costs exceed NFIP limits. Since a surprising number of flood claims happen outside high-risk zones, relying solely on your location may leave you underprotected.

Water-backup endorsements range from about $50 to $250 per year and often include $5,000–$25,000 in protection for backup-related damage. Because insurance companies treat “flooding” and “water backup” as separate events, make sure you understand how your policy defines each one. Installing preventative devices such as backflow valves or battery-powered sump pumps may even qualify you for a discount on this coverage.

2. Earthquake and Seismic Protection

Damage caused by earthquakes usually isn’t included in standard homeowners policies. If you live in an earthquake-prone region, this type of protection may be required — but even those outside major hot zones can experience tremors that harm foundations, plumbing, or structural components. Adding an earthquake or seismic rider can give you an important layer of security.

Most large insurers offer earthquake coverage as a separate policy or an endorsement, especially in states like California, Washington, and Oregon, as well as certain Midwestern areas. Deductibles typically fall between 2% and 20% of the home’s insured value. For a $500,000 home, that means a deductible of $50,000–$100,000. Although the deductible can feel steep, repairing foundation cracks or structural displacement can cost far more. Many of these endorsements also include benefits like debris removal and temporary emergency repairs, reducing immediate financial pressure after a quake.

3. Building Code and Ordinance Upgrade Coverage

If your home needs reconstruction or repair after a covered loss, it must be brought up to today’s building standards — even if the original structure didn’t meet them. What might begin as a small repair can quickly become a major, code-driven renovation. Without the proper rider, you’re responsible for paying those additional upgrade expenses out of pocket. A building code or ordinance endorsement helps cover the gap between old and current requirements.

Modern codes change rapidly, especially regarding insulation, electrical systems, plumbing, energy efficiency, and structural strength. These updates can add 10%–20% to the total cost of rebuilding, and standard policies rarely cover the difference. Ordinance or Law coverage usually provides 10%, 25%, or 50% of your dwelling limit, providing space for upgrades prompted by inspectors. Even small incidents — like a kitchen fire — can trigger whole-home updates. Ask your insurance agent if your policy includes language for increased construction costs to ensure these expenses are accounted for.

4. Scheduled Personal Property for High-Value Items

Many homeowners don’t realize their policy places low limits on valuables like jewelry, collectibles, electronics, and firearms. If you own high-value pieces, scheduling them individually offers stronger protection. A scheduled personal property endorsement allows you to list items at their appraised value, ensuring full coverage if they are stolen, damaged, or lost.

Most policies impose small sublimits — often around $1,500 for jewelry, a few thousand dollars for firearms, and roughly $2,500 for silverware. Scheduling your items provides “all-risk” protection, which includes accidental loss or damage. Premiums typically run $1–$2 per $100 of insured value, meaning $10,000 of jewelry might cost around $200 per year. Updating appraisals every few years helps maintain accurate coverage, and many policies extend protection even when you travel. Keeping photos and receipts in a home inventory app will make claims easier and faster.

5. Home-Based Business Coverage

If you run a business from home or store work equipment on your property, your standard homeowners policy may not offer sufficient coverage. A business property rider can help protect essential equipment, supplies, and inventory tied to your operations.

Standard policies usually include just $2,500 of coverage for business items inside the home and $500 for items off-site — not nearly enough for most modern home offices. A rider can increase that limit to $10,000–$25,000. For additional protection, a standalone home business policy can add liability coverage, especially important if you meet clients at your residence. Recent policy changes often exclude remote worker equipment unless an extra endorsement is added. And keep in mind that business property riders don’t replace professional liability insurance. Freelancers and consultants may need both. Those who sell products may also want protection for inventory, cyber risks, or business interruption.

Final Thoughts

Riders aren’t simply optional add-ons — they’re strategic safeguards that can help you avoid major unexpected expenses. As inflation, extreme weather, and building requirements evolve, the right endorsements ensure your coverage keeps pace with real risks. Review your policy at least once a year, especially after big purchases, renovations, or major life changes. Keeping digital copies of receipts and home inventory records can make the claims process much smoother, and bundling policies may help lower your overall premiums.

If you’d like help evaluating whether any of these riders fit your needs, feel free to reach out anytime.