Do I have to tell the insurer about renovations or a home business?

It could. Your home insurance policy is based on the information you gave when it started, and you should tell the insurer about material changes, such as significant renovations, increased value, changes in use, or starting a business at home, as many policies contain conditions requiring this. Failure to disclose can allow the insurer to reduce or decline a claim if it can show that the change was material and affected its risk assessment. A home business can also affect contents and liability cover, since business stock and equipment are often excluded from home policies. Contact the insurer now, tell them about both changes and ask for the policy to be updated in writing. You might need a separate business policy.