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2024-10-28
By: Advocate Brokerage
Your home is likely your largest investment, and it pays to put in a little work now to maintain that investment in the future. As an added benefit, many of the things you do to your home to make it safer and more comfortable can also help reduce future homeowner insurance claims.
They say that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of the cure. When it comes to your home, this simply means that a few quick checks of things like your toilet supply lines, gutters and downspouts, and your HVAC will go a long way toward recognizing potential problems before they become an insurance liability. It’s also beneficial to have your electrical, your appliances, and other major systems checked by a licensed technician each year to ensure they are safe and up to code.
Next up, have a plan. While you cannot prevent Acts of God and nature, you can have a strategy in place for how you will react. This might include having an emergency contact list or a power generator before storm season.
Smart technology can go a long way toward keeping your home safe from threats at all levels. Your security cameras and doorbells, for instance, can deter burglars. You might also install water flow or leak sensors and wireless smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
Make a point to keep the property clean from the outside in. Trim overhanging branches, keep exterior drains clear of leaves and debris, clean up spills immediately, and empty your dryer vent often. Nearly 3,000 house fires begin each year because of lint and debris stuck in the dryer vent outlet. Another preventative fire measure is keeping your propane or charcoal grill stored at least 10 feet from your home or combustible materials. Often times grills are kept under a covered area or close to the house during the winter, but this can easily result in a devastating fire.
If you haven’t lately, consider contacting your insurance Advocate to discuss reviewing your policy. Do this annually to ensure that you have adequate coverage for your ever-changing needs. Now is also a great time to clarify any information, such as deductibles and claims cost, that you don’t fully understand. You may also be able to add or remove coverages as needed.
For more information on how to make your home a safe haven and reduce potential insurance claims, contact Advocate Brokerage today. Our experienced advisors can help you protect your greatest assets: your family and your home.
