As the seasons change in North Dakota, so do the risks that come with our homes, farms, vehicles, and businesses. Whether you’re getting ready for winter storms, wrapping up harvest, or simply closing out the year,
this is one of the best times to review your insurance coverages. A quick annual checkup ensures you’re protected, up-to-date, and not paying for things you don’t need.
Here are the biggest reasons this time of year is ideal:
1. Life Changes Fast — Make Sure Your Policy Keeps Up
In the last 12 months, did any of this happen?
- Bought or sold a home
- Added a new shop, calving barn, grain bin, or pole building
- Purchased new vehicles, farm trucks, or ATVs
- Added teen drivers
- Had a major life change like marriage, divorce, or a new child
- Opened or expanded a business
- Picked up new hobby equipment (boats, campers, ice houses, side-by-sides)
If so, your policy may not reflect your current life — and gaps in coverage usually show up
after a loss, not before. A year-end review catches those updates before they become expensive oversights.
2. Values Change — Especially in Today’s Market
Reconstruction costs, vehicle prices, and equipment values have all moved significantly over the past few years. If your home, shop, or personal property values haven’t been checked recently, you may be
underinsured without realizing it.
A quick review ensures:
- Your home is insured to proper replacement cost
- Outbuildings and farm structures reflect current market values
- Equipment and tools are updated
- Farm machinery schedules are correct
- Personal property limits still match what you own
3. Discounts & Savings Get Missed Without Reviews
Insurance companies regularly update their discounts and rating structures. You might qualify for savings you aren’t receiving — especially if you’ve:
- Bundled more policies together
- Installed home security or smart-home devices
- Upgraded electrical, HVAC, or roofing
- Taken a defensive driving course
- Paid off your mortgage
- Improved your credit
A year-end review often results in
lower premiums or better coverage for the same price.
4. Winter Is Coming — Make Sure You’re Prepared
North Dakota winters are unpredictable. Before the snow flies, it’s smart to confirm your coverages:
- Do you have enough liability if a visitor slips on icy steps?
- Is your snowblower, ATV, or UTV scheduled correctly?
- Do you have appropriate additional living expense coverage if a frozen pipe causes damage?
- Are you covered for winter driving risks on your autos?
- Is your lake home or cabin protected while it sits vacant?
A review now ensures peace of mind before the storms arrive.
5. It’s Tax & Planning Season
This time of year naturally pushes people to get organized. Reviewing your coverages fits perfectly with:
- Year-end financial planning
- Equipment purchases before December 31
- Farm bookkeeping
- Evaluating business liability limits
- Planning for next year’s goals
An insurance review is one of the easiest ways to get your financial picture cleaned up before January 1.
6. Small Tweaks Now Can Prevent Big Losses Later
Sometimes all it takes is a quick adjustment:
- Increasing liability limits
- Adding an umbrella policy
- Adjusting deductibles
- Scheduling jewelry, firearms, or collectibles
- Updating beneficiaries
- Reviewing life or disability coverage
- Adjusting farm liability and acreage exposures
These small updates can prevent major financial headaches after a loss.
Final Thought: Your Insurance Should Move With You — Not Stay Stuck in Last Year
Life evolves. Your insurance should too. An annual review gives you confidence heading into the new year knowing everything you care about — your home, vehicles, farm, family, and future — is properly protected.
If you’d like help reviewing your policies, comparing options, or making sure you’re getting the right coverage at the right price,
reach out anytime. This is the perfect moment to take a fresh look.
