Ways to Prevent Homeowners Insurance Claims

While many insurance claims cannot be avoided, there are some things you can do to make your home less susceptible to the damage caused by fire, theft or other perils. Some of these options, like installing burglar alarms, can be expensive; however, there are a number of less expensive measures you can take in order to protect your home. You can protect your home and avoid insurance claims by taking the following measures:

Checking the Roof: Damage to your home’s roof can be quite expensive and can make your home unsafe. In order to prevent damage to your roof, you should have it inspected every few years to make sure that there are no soft spots. Intense storms can cause significant damage to the roof, as threatening tree limbs or branches could fall on the roof.

Install Outdoor Lighting: You can make your home less susceptible to robbery by installing more outdoor lighting. Installing outdoor lighting around the front door, driveways, and other entryways are less likely to be burglarized. Houses that are well lit may deter potential burglars who prefer the dark.

Checking Smoke Alarms and Fire Extinguishers: The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission recommends that all homeowners check their smoke alarms at least once a month. When checking the smoke alarms, the batteries should be replaced. Fire extinguishers should also be inspected visually at least once a month. A visual inspection consists of locating the fire extinguisher, making sure that the pin and seal are in the proper place, and verifying that there is no damage to the extinguisher. Conducting these inspections will ensure that you have the proper tools necessary to combat risks to your home.

Updating Electrical and Plumbing Systems: If your electrical or plumbing systems are outdated, you may be at a greater risk for fire or flooding in your home. Checking your home every few months for faulty electrical outlets or bad wiring is a good idea for all Florida homeowners. One small wiring or plumbing fix could save you a lot of money and grief in the future.

Install Surge Protectors: Surge protection devices can prevent or minimize the damage from power surges to individual appliances or your entire home. These devices are relatively inexpensive and can save you the trouble of having to file claims for your expensive electronic items.

Making an Emergency Preparedness Plan: All homeowners should have an emergency preparedness plan for fires or natural disasters. This important document will help you and your family properly prepare in the event of an emergency.

Taking these simple actions will help protect your home and your family from the financial and emotional burden a homeowner’s claim can cause.

Milla Tawnie writes for Orlando auto insurance and Orlando home insurance agency, the Florida Insurance Group. To learn more or to get auto and home insurance quotes, visit FloridaInsurance.com

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