Anyone who has ever had to take out a home insurance policy will have been faced with the question of what the most important thing is to protect your home against. A recent report has revealed that there are a handful of things that are most often claimed for, and for which you should always ensure you have covered in case of damage to your property.
Wind Damage
Damage to your property as a result of wind is the most common home insurance claim. High winds can make missiles of everyday objects, such as garden furniture, tree branches and toys and send them catapulting into your home. Damage from wind most often occurs to doors, window, roof and garages. In the event of an approaching storm it is prudent to take stock of anything outside your home which could potentially cause damage. Ensure you keep your trees pruned and are ready for such an event.
Nonweather Related Water Damage
Burst pipes and broken appliances are increasingly the main causes of water damage to your property. This is at a cost of billions to insurance companies and individuals, but damage from non-weather-related water can be prevented. Inspecting pipes and conducting routine maintenance can go a long way towards protecting your home, and now to make life even easier, smart devices are available to detect leaks before they cause too much damage. However, should your property have already sustained damage as a result of water, then its time to call in a company like Service Restore who can clean up the mess and dry your home, as any residual damp can cause harmful pathogens in the air.Β
Hail Damage
Large hail stones can inflict a significant amount of damage to your home. This is compounded when coupled with high winds which can send hail flying at alarming speeds. Some hailstones can reach the size of a softball and their uneven surface can impact the kind of damage they can cause. Aside from your vehicles, one of the most at risk parts of your property is your roof. Consider using impact resistant materials the next time you have your roof replaced to avoid damage during hailstorms.
Weather Related Water Damage
Extreme weather events are occurring more frequently due to climate change, making weather related water damage one of the biggest risks for insurers. In fact, your home is around ten times more likely to be damaged as a result of water than fire. Flooding, flash floods, dam and levee failures, tidal storm surges, mudflows and snow melts are all a significant threat to property and can cost vast sums to money to repair. Floodwaters often carry harmful pathogens and even raw sewage so restoring your homestead following a flood is often best left to the professionals.
Theft
Experiencing theft to your personal property is never a good experience. Not only is there a loss of personal items and damage to your property as a result of the break in, but often homeowners are left feeling violated. Happily, most insurance policies will cover damage to your property and losses that result from theft.Β
Make sure you take the necessary steps to help protect your new family home from damage or theft.
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