01/28/2026
In Missouri, your home shouldn’t be insured based on what it could sell for — in most cases, it should be insured for the cost to rebuild after a covered loss. This is known as Replacement Cost. If you have a HO policy that covers the home on a Replacement Cost basis, there are important factors for you to consider.
Replacement Cost Coverage reflects what it would cost today to rebuild your home, considering:
• Current Missouri labor and construction costs
• Building materials and regional availability
• Local and state building codes
• Your home’s size, layout, and features
Market value includes factors insurance doesn’t replace—such as land value, location, and real estate demand—which is why it’s not the right benchmark for coverage.
Why this matters in Missouri:
Severe weather like windstorms, hail, tornadoes, and winter storms can cause widespread damage. When many homes are rebuilding at the same time, construction costs can rise quickly—leaving underinsured homeowners paying out of pocket.
Because rebuilding costs change over time, it’s smart to review your coverage periodically, especially after renovations, additions, or major weather events.
Your local Barton Mutual insurance agent can help ensure your policy reflects today’s rebuilding costs—so you’re protected when it matters most.