The right Homeowners Insurance policy can give you the peace of mind you need knowing your home is adequately protected. However, not all claims are preventable. And if you’re like most homeowners, the idea of a claim (or actually going through one) can be an emotionally taxing and stressful scenario. Protecting your home is an important step in mitigating claims, so read on to discover the most common types of home insurance claims to prevent yourself from becoming another statistic.
Wind damage.
It might be surprising for many homeowners to find out that over one-quarter of all homeowner’s insurance claims derive from wind damage. Even though the wind weighs nothing, it still has the power to inflict severe damage on your home. To prevent these claims from arising, trim tree limbs, remove loose ones and remove anything that could become airborne and cause damage in a storm. This includes umbrellas, patio furniture, toys, etc.
Plumbing problems.
Leaks caused from washers, water heaters, dishwashers, showers, toilets, and sinks are another major contributor to homeowner’s insurance claims. In fact, leaks from appliances cost billions of dollars annually, according to the Insurance Information Institute. So, how can you prevent this? Well, to start you can examine a major culprit- your water heater. Determine how old it is and if it could use some routine maintenance. As it approaches the end of its lifespan, look for signs of malfunction, especially leaks! Next, locate your home’s water shutoff valve and turn it off in an emergency. If you notice small leaks, get them fixed immediately.
Hail.
This a common source of homeowner’s insurance claims, as well, because it’s unpredictable and not preventable. However, if you live in a hail-prone area, consider investing in a more durable roof material to shield your home from damage. Don’t forget to put your vehicle in the garage before the storm comes, as well.
About Metro Boston
As you set out to get the best homeowner’s insurance coverage, give yourself the gift of peace of mind. Contact us at Metro Boston Insurance Agency, 617.884.5480, and ring in the New Year with a new home insurance policy!
Written by Metro Boston Insurance Agency on Jan 15, 2017