Life Changes That Should Trigger an Insurance Review

High School Graduation- Triggers Insurance Check

Life moves fast—and when it does, your insurance should keep up.

At Ellen Fenton & Company LLC, we believe that insurance isn’t “set it and forget it.” Major life changes—whether exciting, emotional, or unexpected—often require a closer look at your current policies. If your coverage hasn’t been reviewed in a year or more, or if you’ve recently hit one of the milestones below, it’s time to schedule an insurance review.

Here are the most common life events that should prompt a policy update:

1. Buying a Home or Moving

Whether you’ve purchased your first home, moved into a new house, or downsized, your homeowners insurance needs to reflect your current situation.

✅ Update coverage amounts

✅ Consider replacement cost vs. market value

✅ Add any new valuables or property upgrades

Bonus Tip: If you moved to a different state or neighborhood, your auto insurance rates may change too.

2. Getting Married (or Divorced)

Marriage often means merging homes, vehicles, and financial responsibilities. On the other hand, divorce could mean splitting assets and adjusting beneficiaries.

It’s crucial to:

✅ Combine or separate auto and homeowners policies

✅ Reassess life insurance coverage

✅ Update beneficiaries on all policies

At Ellen Fenton & Company Insurance we do not share any sensitive information. Know your protected with us.

3. Starting a Business or Working from Home

If you’ve recently started freelancing, launched a business, or even just work remotely, you may need to:

✅ Add business coverage to your homeowner’s policy

✅ Consider commercial or professional liability insurance

✅ Protect business equipment stored at home

4. Major Purchases (Cars, Jewelry, Recreational Vehicles)

Bought a new vehicle? Installed a pool? Purchased expensive jewelry or tech? These types of purchases can impact both your auto insurance and personal property coverage.

✅ Add the new item to your policy

✅ Make sure you’re covered for theft, damage, or liability

✅ Ask about scheduled personal property riders for high-value items

5. Retirement or Job Changes

Leaving a job, retiring, or switching careers often comes with changes to your employer-provided insurance. That’s a great time to:

✅ Explore individual life insurance policies

✅ Reevaluate your long-term care or disability insurance needs

✅ Review your retirement income protection

6. Kids Going to College

If your child is living on campus or driving a car under your name, there are specific insurance considerations:

✅ Check if your homeowners insurance covers their dorm belongings

✅ Evaluate whether they need renter’s insurance

✅ Update your auto policy if your child drives or takes a car with them

7. Loss of a Loved One

A death in the family, especially of a spouse or parent, can drastically impact your financial planning and protection strategy.

✅ Update beneficiaries

✅ Adjust life and disability policies

✅ Reassess your overall insurance portfolio

Why Insurance Reviews Matter

Insurance isn’t just about protection—it’s about peace of mind.

When your life changes, your risks change. That’s why a personalized policy review with a trusted advisor ensures you stay protected, prepared, and positioned for the future.

At Ellen Fenton & Company, we specialize in helping individuals and families across Western New York navigate insurance at every stage of life. Our team takes the time to understand your unique needs and walk you through the best coverage options—so you’re never over- or under-insured.

Schedule Your Insurance Review Today

Life changes. Your insurance should too.

Call us or request a complimentary policy review at www.ellenfenton.com. Let’s make sure your coverage grows with you.

Next
Next

Smart Insurance Tips for WNY Business Owners This Summer