PROJECT HOME WISE
Before You Spend, Sign, or File a Claim
A practical decision guide for the home and money choices that are easiest to regret after the fact.
This is not a generic checklist. Use the section that matches the decision in front of you, collect what matters first, and ask the question that can change the outcome.
01 — INSURANCE
Before you accept a rate increase or nonrenewal
Do this before you act
- Save the notice, envelope, and every date listed on it.
- Pull your current declarations page and the prior policy.
- Ask the insurer exactly what condition, loss history, or rating factor changed.
The question people miss
“What specific documentation would change this decision, if any?”
Read the roof-age nonrenewal guide →02 — REFINANCE & HELOC
Before you commit to a new loan or payment
Bring these documents
- First-mortgage and HELOC statements.
- Payoff instructions for each lien.
- Your projected payment at today’s rate and at the reset date.
The question people miss
“Is there a second lien that has to subordinate, close, or be paid off before this can fund?”
Read about refinance delays →03 — REPAIR OR PROJECT
Before you authorize a major repair
Do this before you act
- Photograph the issue before anyone starts work.
- Get the scope, materials, price, and exclusions in writing.
- Ask whether permits, inspections, or follow-up work are included.
The question people miss
“What could make this estimate grow after work begins—and who approves that change?”
Read the home-value project guide →04 — HOME WARRANTY
Before you file a warranty claim
Bring these documents
- Your contract and the relevant exclusion pages.
- Service invoices, maintenance records, and photos.
- A written timeline of when the problem appeared.
The question people miss
“Does the contract require maintenance records or prior approval before a repair can be covered?”
Read the warranty-records guide →05 — HOME COSTS
Before you pay for a savings upgrade
Do this before you act
- Write down the current cost and the date range it covers.
- Separate a one-time repair from a recurring utility or insurance cost.
- Compare the promised savings with your actual household use.
The question people miss
“What has to stay true for this to pay back—and what happens if it does not?”
See more homeowner guides →Keep this page close.
Every section links to a deeper Project Home Wise guide. When a decision involves a deadline, a contract, or a large payment, read the full guide before you move forward.