June has arrived! This month is National Homeowners’ Month and National Safety Month. We celebrate both special recognitions by considering how homeowners can keep their properties safe and secure. Knowing the most common insurance claims can help you safeguard your property and avoid the risk of losses. Here are five prevalent homeowners’ insurance claims and strategies to prevent them:​

1. Water Damage

Water damage is a leading cause of homeowners’ insurance claims. In California, for instance, water damage is one of the leading causes of homeowner claims, with interior plumbing leaks often being the most significant issue. The good news is that most leaks can be avoided:

• Maintain your plumbing: Regularly inspect pipes for leaks or corrosion and address issues promptly.​
• Install a leak detection system: Many smart systems are now available that can monitor your water usage. Just install as directed, and they will alert you to leaks before they escalate.​
• Ensure proper drainage: Clear gutters and downspouts to direct water away from your home’s foundation.
• Insulate pipes: Protect pipes in unheated areas, like sheds and outbuildings, to prevent freezing during cold weather.​
• Maintain adequate heating: Keep your home sufficiently warm during cold spells; this can keep internal piping open and flowing.
• Allow faucets to drip: Letting faucets drip during extreme cold can help prevent pipes from bursting from a pressure build-up when water freezes.

2. Wind and Hail Damage

Wind and hail are responsible for a significant portion of claims. Nationally, wind and hail affect approximately 1 in 35 homes annually. Be prepared and help your house weather the storm by following these prevention tips:

• Inspect and maintain your roof: Regularly check for loose or damaged shingles and repair them.​
• Secure outdoor items: Anchor furniture, grills, and other objects that could become projectiles during storms, or better yet, take them inside the garage when you expect bad weather.
• Consider storm shutters: Protect windows from hail and debris with appropriate coverings.​ Hurricane-proof glass is also available, protecting you from wind speeds up to 200 mph.

3. Fire and Lightning Damage

Fire and lightning claims, though less frequent than water and wind issues, are often the costliest, averaging over $77,000 per claim, according to the Insurance Information Institute. ​Here are some ways to prepare for and prevent severe fire and electrical damage.

• Install smoke detectors: Place them throughout your home and test them monthly.​ Fire alarm batteries differ. Some smoke detectors need to be replaced every six months to a year, while others will last up to nine years or for the lifetime of the alarm. Know which type of alarm you have and replace the batteries on schedule to ensure ongoing protection.
• Practice electrical safety: Avoid overloading circuits and replace damaged cords immediately.​ Too many extension cords strung around the house is a bad idea.
• Maintain defensible space: To reduce wildfire risks, trim vegetation and create a buffer zone around your property.​ For example, stack firewood or dry garden trimmings 30 to 50 feet from buildings.

4. Bodily Injury and Property Damage

With an average cost per claim of $30,000, allowing hazardous conditions on your property can hurt visitors and guests and increase your insurance premiums. Trampolines are lots of fun, but they can and do cause injuries.

There are many ways a person can potentially have an accident, but keeping an eye out for the obvious things, like keeping walkways clear of toys or snow and ice, and not letting children run by the pool, can go a long way. Another interesting fact? Nearly one-third of personal injury claims against homeowners’ insurance come from dog bites, so keeping guests and your dog at a comfortable distance may help.

5. Theft and Burglary

Theft is a far less common claim homeowners make, but its effects can be devastating. Actions you take in your home, and even online, can make a difference.

• Install a security system: Visible alarms and cameras can deter potential intruders.​ Many systems now have apps you can use on your phone to view the camera feed from afar.
• Secure doors and windows: Use deadbolt locks and reinforce entry points.​ An open door is an invitation for thieves.
• Be mindful of social media: If you are concerned about the safety of your house during your departure, avoid announcing travel plans publicly, signaling an empty home.​
• Get help from your neighbors: Ask a neighbor or a friend who lives nearby to keep an eye on your property and alert you of any suspicious activity.

Are You Covered for Common Homeowners’ Claims?

By implementing these preventive measures, you can reduce the likelihood of experiencing the most common insurance claims, but just in case, check your coverage. Have questions about whether your policy includes all of the above? Our homeowners’ insurance agents are ready to speak with you. Call our office today to learn more about your current coverage and what you may need for the future.

Spring Maintenance for Your Home

As spring rolls around, many homeowners should consider revitalizing their homes through post-winter maintenance. Winter can often damage a home, including its exterior, plumbing, and climate control systems. In anticipation of winter, try adding the tips below to your spring maintenance checklist.

HVAC Maintenance

During warmer seasons, air conditioning is more than just a luxury; it is a home essential. Therefore, HVAC maintenance is an essential part of spring home maintenance. Replace air filters to maintain and improve air quality. This also prevents strain on your HVAC system. Importantly, make sure your air vents and ducts are free from dust and allergens that may have built up during the winter.

Check Plumbing

A crucial part of a good spring home maintenance routine involves inspecting systems that may have been damaged during the winter, such as outdoor faucets and hoses. Freezing temperatures can lead to significant damage to plumbing systems. Repairing and replacing them can save you costly repairs down the road.

Additionally, water damage from rain and melting ice can lead to major problems such as mold growth and water damage. For many homeowners, turning to a professional to address major issues can be worth the expense.

Lawn and Garden Care

Many homeowners consider their lawn to be the crown jewel of their home. After a harsh winter, rain and snow can lead to slow growth and damage. As spring arrives, you can maintain a beautiful lawn using fertilizer treatments and weed killer.

After winter, lawns can be covered with leaves and debris, which can be removed by raking. Shrubs and hedges can have dying branches that can be removed by pruning to give a lawn a renewed look.

Spring Car Maintenance

Winter can affect cars and homes alike. Car owners should implement the following measures as part of their routine spring car maintenance.

Inspect Tires

Well-maintained tires are crucial to help keep your car running smoothly and safely. Temperature differences during the winter can lead to issues involving tire pressure. Extreme weather conditions can also increase wear and tear on tread and tire sidewalls. Rotating and replacing tires on a regular basis can help maintain your car’s performance.

Remove Pollen

It is vital to keep your car free from pollen, as with time, the pollen will have a detrimental effect on vehicle paint. Remove the pollen with water, not a soft cloth, as sweeping it off with a cloth can cause more damage to the finish.

Check Fluids

Lubrication and coolant systems are a significant part of a well-running car. During winter, oil, coolant, and brake fluids can become old and dirty, which can lead to inefficient and even dangerous problems for a car, especially if the car has not been used often. Inspecting and replacing these crucial systems is vital to ensuring your car is in working order.

Electrical Systems

Temperature differences can also majorly impact your car’s battery and electrical systems. Car owners can order voltmeters and portable battery chargers online to check for electrical problems as part of their routine car maintenance for spring.

Our Agents Will Spring into Action to Assist You

Spring is a chance for home and car owners to look forward to a new year. Spring cleaning and maintenance do not have to be a chore. If you are worried about damage to your home, our agents are available to assist you with insurance solutions to address your needs. Get in touch with your local agent today so you can breeze through your spring maintenance plans.

Shopping for insurance can be a confusing, even overwhelming process, with policies loaded with obscure legal terms. Although exploring new options or switching agents may seem troublesome, it may be worth considering. Should you stick with your current agent or take the leap to an independent insurance agent? Let’s break it down.

What is the Difference Between Traditional and Independent Insurance Agents?

A traditional insurance agent works for one specific company and can only sell you policies from that company. Independent agents are professionals who are not tied to a single insurance provider. They partner with various companies and can offer multiple options from different providers.

What Are the Pros of Choosing an Independent Agent?

Switching to an independent insurance agent can have several advantages for policyholders:

• More choice; less stress: When you are shopping for insurance, prices, coverage, and policy details can vary drastically. As they represent different insurance companies, independent agents can offer a variety of options and price points. They can do the shopping for you, find the best deals to suit your needs, and ensure you are not overpaying for a policy.
• Expertise across multiple providers: Independent insurance agents are licensed experts with deep knowledge of different policies, coverage options, and industry trends. They can assess a customer’s insurance needs and match them with the best-equipped carrier at an affordable rate. Independent agents’ versatility allows them to be more flexible in addressing your needs.
• Personalized attention and advice: Larger companies may tend to prioritize volume over individualized service. Independent agents are more likely to focus on understanding your unique situation and recommend products that truly work for you. Whether you need home, auto, or life insurance, their advice is tailored to your unique circumstance and not based on a sales quota.
• One-stop shopping: Independent agents can often meet all of your insurance needs. Through the companies they represent, many can offer home, auto, renters, and life insurance, as well as business coverage.
• Ongoing support: Your relationship with an independent agent is ongoing. Once you have secured a policy, your agent is there to answer questions and make updates if your circumstances change. If you have a concern regarding billing or a claim, your agent can act as your advocate, dealing with the insurance company on your behalf.

Is It Worth It to Make the Switch?

Not all independent agents are the same. It is crucial to choose an agent with a solid reputation for service who offers a variety of options and has the depth of expertise you require. Shopping for insurance with an independent agent may require more time upfront. Communicate your needs and preferences, and your agent can compare different policies.

For a wider variety of options, flexibility, and ongoing support, switching to an independent insurance agent may be your best option if you value personalized service. Our knowledgeable agent is happy to meet to discuss your insurance needs and answer any questions you may have.

For boat owners, the arrival of spring is the time to shed the winter coats and your landlocked routine for life vests and the freedom of the open water. Before you set out, it is essential to ensure your boat is ready for the season. Spring is the perfect time to give your vessel a thorough checkup and get it in shape for all your summer adventures. The following checklist can help you get your boat back in the water and ready to enjoy the warmer months.

Inspect the Hull

The hull is your boat’s armor and the first line of defense between you and the open water. Start with a visual inspection, looking for cracks, scratches, or worn areas. After your boat has been sitting idle for months, it is a good idea to clean and wax the hull to protect it for the upcoming year. If you discover any severe damage, get repairs before launching into the season. A small crack can turn into a problem on the water.

Check the Engine and Fuel System

The engine is the beating heart of your vessel. Inspect it carefully for any visible signs of corrosion or wear. Ensure the engine oil levels are good and the oil is not too old. Check the fuel lines and fuel system for leaks or blockages. If you winterize your boat, ensure the battery is in good condition. A dead battery can quickly spoil a day on the water.

Test the Electrical System

You need the lights, horn, and all electronic systems on a watercraft to function correctly. Inspect the electrical system by checking the wiring for any signs of fraying or corrosion. This electrical system evaluation is critical if you use your boat in saltwater. Test the navigation lights, the bilge pump, and any onboard electronics to avoid being caught in the dark or stranded in an emergency.

Inspect the Safety Gear

Make sure life jackets are in good condition and you have enough for everyone on board. Inspect your fire extinguishers, flare kits, and first aid supplies to ensure they are up to date and in good working order. Double-check flares and distress signals to ensure they are not expired. Small investments in safety are more than worth it if something goes awry on the water.

Clean and Organize

A boat can accumulate clutter during the off-season. Take the time to clean and organize the interior. Clean out the bilge, wipe down surfaces, and wash the carpets. These actions can help you maintain your boat and create a more enjoyable environment on the water. Debris from earlier boating adventures should be removed.

Check Your Boat Insurance

Are you covered for your spring adventures? Last but not least, checking your boat insurance policy is essential. Make sure your coverage is up to date and suits your current needs. Whether you have upgraded your boat or want to ensure your policy reflects the latest regulations, a quick review can save you from costly headaches in case of an accident or loss. Our friendly agent is happy to review your policy and coverage needs with you.

Planning a home remodel? April is National Rebuilding Month, after all. Whether adding space, upgrading features, or increasing functionality, your renovation could impact your homeowner’s insurance. Some updates may require additional coverage, while others might lower your premiums. Here are five key insurance considerations before you remodel your home.

Increased Coverage for Home Additions

Expanding your home, whether by adding rooms or finishing a basement, increases its value, and your current dwelling coverage may no longer be sufficient. Before breaking ground, consult an insurance agent to ensure your coverage reflects your home’s value.

• Reassess dwelling coverage: New additions increase your value. Review a possible increase of your dwelling coverage to match the new square footage that may be at risk.
• Update personal property coverage: Incorporating new rooms or features can include acquiring additional personal belongings. Ensure your policy reflects these changes to protect new furniture, electronics, appliances, and raw square footage.
• Review liability coverage: Certain additions can elevate the risk of accidents. Evaluating and possibly increasing your liability coverage is prudent to safeguard against potential claims.

Liability Protection for a Swimming Pool

Adding a swimming pool increases liability risks, as it’s considered an “attractive nuisance.” The legal term “attractive nuisance” describes a hazardous condition or object that might lure children or others onto the property, putting them at risk of injury. The property owner may be held responsible for injuries due to the attractive nuisance, especially if they have failed to take reasonable steps to prevent access, for example, by installing a locking fence or gating around a pool.

Your insurer may require higher liability coverage, so it is always best to check before you begin remodeling. Additionally, installing safety features may be necessary for coverage eligibility—something to consider adding to your remodeling plans.

Policy Updates for a Home Office

If you add a dedicated home office or run a business from home, your standard policy may not cover business-related equipment or liability. To make sure you have adequate protection, consider the following:

• Adding an endorsement: This is an addition to your existing policy that modifies or extends coverage. It can protect specific assets or risks not covered by your standard policy, such as business property or valuable items.
• Acquiring an in-home business policy: Designed for those running a business from home, this policy covers business property, liability, and other risks that might not be covered under your homeowner’s policy.
• Purchasing separate business insurance: Separate business insurance provides comprehensive coverage for business activities, such as liability, property damage, and workers’ compensation. It’s ideal for businesses needing more protection than an in-home policy offers.

Discounts for Safety Upgrades

Not all renovations increase premiums. Updating electrical wiring, plumbing, or roofing can lower costs by reducing the risk of fire or water damage. If your remodel includes these upgrades, ask about potential discounts on your homeowner’s insurance.

Insurance Coverage During Construction

One thing many families or homeowners overlook is the time during construction. Depending on the scale of your remodel, your home may be vacant or exposed to greater risks while construction is ongoing. Builders’ risk insurance protects materials from theft or damage, while vacant home insurance covers unoccupied properties during renovations. Make sure you have the right coverage before work begins.

Stay Protected Through Your Remodel

A home renovation is a significant investment; the right insurance coverage protects that investment. Before starting any project, speak with one of our experienced personal insurance agents to review your policy and make any necessary adjustments today.

Like homeowners and renters, condo owners need insurance coverage to protect them from financial loss caused by perils such as fire, theft, and lawsuits. However, condominiums are different from homes or apartments. Although part of the building or property belongs to the condo owner, some of the condo belongs to the condominium association. Therefore, insurance coverage is different for this type of dwelling.

What Types of Insurance Policies Cover Condos?

There are two types of insurance policies for condos: one for the condominium association and another for individual condo owners. Typically, the master policy for the building and shared spaces is purchased by the association, while the condo owner buys insurance for their unit.

• Condo association insurance: The master policy typically covers the building itself, including the roof and siding, as well as shared common areas, such as grounds, pools, and hallways. In some cases, coverage may extend to the unit’s interior to cover floors, ceilings, bare walls, and standard fixtures.
• Individual condo insurance: These policies are designed to protect a specific unit and cover damage to the home and your belongings. Also known as HO-6 insurance, it is usually required by mortgage lenders and many condominium associations. Personal condo insurance covers what the master policy does not, such as electronics, furniture, and other items inside the unit. It also provides liability coverage if a visitor is injured inside the home.

How Does Condo Insurance Differ from Homeowners Insurance?

Home insurance is designed for traditional homeowners who own the structure of the house and the land it sits on. It is more comprehensive, as the coverage extends to the roof, garage, fences, sheds, exterior structure, and the condo interior. It covers personal belongings, whether they are inside or outside the house. Typically, it also offers broader liability protection if a visitor is injured anywhere on the property, indoors or out. It often includes loss-of-use coverage to pay for temporary living arrangements if the home becomes inhabitable due to a covered event.

Condo insurance applies to the interior of the unit, including the walls, ceiling, and flooring, and protects personal belongings, such as clothing, furniture, and electronics. It provides liability coverage for medical and legal expenses if someone is injured inside the unit. It can help pay for costs shared if the association’s master policy does not fully cover damage to common areas.

What Is the Role of the Master Policy in Determining Condo Coverage Needs?

The association’s master policy plays a major role in determining the coverage needs of condo owners. The main categories of master policies are:

• Bare Walls-In: This type of policy covers only the frame of the structure and the shared areas, leaving condo owners responsible for everything inside their units.
• All-In: Coverage is extended to include built-in features, such as flooring, cabinets, and fixtures.

Condo owners must understand what the association’s master policy covers to avoid over-insuring or leaving critical gaps in coverage. Our knowledgeable agent can review the master policy and help you find the right condo insurance at the most affordable rates.

March is National Credit Education Month—and many of us could use some help. When we think about credit scores, most of us are aware that our credit scores can affect loan approvals, car financing, credit card limits, or whether you are at the top of the list of tenants a landlord will consider.

Another area where credit score plays a critical role is in determining insurance rates. Your credit score, calculated from the information in your credit report, directly influences how much you pay for auto, homeowners, or renters insurance.

What Is the Connection Between Credit Scores and Insurance Rates?

Insurance companies are in business for profit and are concerned with managing risk. Each policyholder represents a unique set of probabilities. The goal is to assess the likelihood that you will file a claim, the potential payment for that claim, and your overall reliability as a customer. They use a combination of factors, including your credit score, to assess the risk.

They do this because studies have shown a correlation between claim behavior and credit scores. Insurers assert that individuals with lower credit scores are statistically more likely to file claims, and those claims tend to be costlier. Although this is not true for every person, data-backed trends provide insurance companies with the rationale for factoring credit scores into their calculations.

Insurers do not look at your raw credit score like a bank or lender might. Instead, they use a specialized “insurance score” that considers credit history but focuses on factors insurers believe are more predictive of your risks as a policyholder. Outstanding debts, late payments, and the length of your credit history could play a role in determining your insurance score.

What Impact Does Credit Score Have on Insurance Rates?

Your credit score could influence your rates for auto, homeowners, or renters insurance as follows:

• Higher score = lower rates: If your credit score is strong, insurers perceive you as financially responsible and less likely to file frequent or frivolous claims. Consequently, you are likely to have access to better insurance rates.
• Lower score = higher rates: On the flip side, a lower credit score may signal financial instability to insurers. They may require higher premiums to offset the perceived risk.
• Exception to the rule: In some states, insurance companies are restricted or prohibited from using credit scores to determine insurance rates. Your credit score may not affect your insurance premiums if you reside in one of these states.

How Can You Improve Your Insurance Rates?

If your credit score affects your insurance rates, taking the following steps can improve your credit score. While it will not happen overnight, these actions can make a significant difference over time:

• Pay bills on time: Payment history is one of the most significant factors affecting credit scores.
• Reduce credit card balances: A high ratio of balances to limits can negatively impact your score.
• Avoid opening new credit accounts: It can temporarily lower your score due to hard inquiries on your credit report.
• Check your credit report: Review the report for errors that could drag down your score unnecessarily.
• Meet with our experienced agent: We can work to get you the best available rates for the insurance coverage you need.

Review Your Insurance Rates

It’s always smart to review your insurance policies regularly and shop the market to see if you can save on your rates. Contact our agency today to speak with an experienced agent who can help you find the best coverage at the right price!

National Home Warranty Day was last week, so it’s an ideal time to take steps to protect your home from excessive wear and tear with a home warranty. Homeowners can guard against the unexpected with specific personal insurance policies. Keep your home safe and warm this winter with these critical electrical safety tips arranged in a handy checklist.

Outside Power Lines and Electric Components

Ensure Your Power Lines are Clear

Heavy snow and storms can cause trees or heavy branches to fall onto energized power lines. If you see any trees that could interfere with your electricity supply or pose a fire risk, contact your utility company or a private electrical contractor with tree-trimming services to address the problem and ensure your property and home are safe.

Find and Label Your Breakers

If you haven’t been to your electrical panel recently, now is the time to re-familiarize yourself with the unit. Label what area of the house each breaker controls so it is easier to flip the right switch if a circuit blows.

Inspect and Protect Electrical Panels and Outlets

Take a brisk walk around your property and check all outdoor panels, outlets, or junction boxes are protected from the elements. Water from melting snow and ice can pose a shock hazard, and dirt and debris will eventually erode exposed electrical elements. Replace any missing covers as needed to protect these external parts of your setup.

Shield Equipment from Snow and Ice

If you have larger equipment outdoors, such as ventilation units, lighting fixtures, or wiring, be sure they are shielded with waterproof covers. Inspect any outdoor wiring for damage and get any wires showing wear replaced immediately.

Run Any Generators Outside

A generator can be a lifesaver in case of a power outage. Gas-powered generators produce toxic fumes like carbon monoxide, a colorless and odorless killer. If you are running a generator, be sure it is located outside and adequately ventilated. You can use an open outdoor shed to keep snow off the system. When using extension cords, always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines; don’t overload what the cord is rated for.

Your Home’s Electrical Safety: Inside

Watch for Water Leaks

Water near electrical systems increases the possibility of shock or fire due to the extreme conductivity of water. Inspect the roof, basement, and areas prone to water intrusions to find leaks before they lead to an electrical fire.

Check Your Electrical Cords

The use of extension cords increases during the cold weather season. Space heaters, electric blankets, holiday lights, air purifiers, and other electrically powered items may be used. Inspecting extension and electrical cords on heaters and other electrically powered units yearly is essential to ensure no cords show any wear and tear. Replace all cords that pose a risk of fire due to wear.

Avoid Overloading a Single-Circuit

Each circuit in your home delivers a specific amount of electrical energy. If you use a power strip, be mindful of how many appliances or devices you plug into the unit. Spread high-powered appliances to different circuits or only plug in one appliance at a time to avoid tripping a breaker or causing an electrical fire due to circuit overloading.

Understand Space Heater Safety

Never leave a space heater unattended. The U.S. Department of Energy records about 25,000 house fires related to space heaters yearly. If you need a space heater to stay comfortable, follow the manufacturer’s instructions and ensure the unit is placed a safe distance from blankets, drapes, and other items that could ignite. Any space heater used in the home should have a shut-off feature that activates if the unit is knocked over. Check the cord and plug powering the heater. If it is hot to the touch, immediately move the heater to another outlet. Then, recheck the unit. If the cord remains hot, replace the heater.

Test Your Detection Alarms: Smoke and Carbon Monoxide

Regular testing of your smoke and carbon monoxide alarm can give you peace of mind and alert you to smoke or carbon monoxide. Smoke alarms should be replaced every 10 years as a minimum, and batteries should be replaced yearly. The batteries need replacement if you hear a high-pitched chirping noise.

Stay Safe, Warm, and Secure This Season

This checklist will help you and your loved ones stay safe and warm with a properly functioning electrical system. A personal insurance policy can be a lifesaver for more protection from various risks. Your home warranty and personal insurance provide security and peace of mind, so you are confident you and your family are protected from fire. Contact our agents today to see how the right home insurance policy can benefit you by protecting the safety of your home.

During the winter months, the weather can get pretty grim. Freezing icy conditions, blizzards, torrential rain, and wind events can test any structure, including your home. The best policy is to be prepared for the worst and hope for the best. Here are some ways you can protect your home from the damage of winter storms this year.

Indoor Checks and Safety Measures

Heating System

No one wants to be stranded at home with no heat during a storm. Before the heavy cold sets in, check that all the parts of your system, including filters, wood heating systems, boilers, furnaces, and pipes, are in good condition. Keep your heating at 65 degrees, even when out of the house, to help protect against frozen pipes.

Pipe Insulation

Not all pipes are within the walls. Check the attic or basement for any exposed pipes and get them insulated. If you want to do it yourself, you can find pre-slit foam pipe insulators online or at your local home improvement store. Just read up on how to apply them so you don’t leave gaps.

Water Main

When was the last time you located your water main? If you can’t remember, it’s been too long. Ensure you know its location and how to turn it on and off. If you have any trouble with frozen or burst pipes during the winter, you can stop the main flow of H2O to prevent your emergency from becoming a disaster.

Faucet Control

Moving water is less likely to freeze than standing water. When the temperature plunges, turn your hot and cold faucets to have a slow, steady drip, particularly those furthest from the water supply, to reduce the risk of frozen pipes in cold weather.

Emergency Supplies

If you are snowed in and can’t go out. Make sure your safety reserves and emergency kit are well stocked. Essential things you need include:

• Water
• Non-perishable food
• First-aid kit
• Warm blankets and clothes
• Flashlights
• Cell phone charger backups

Outdoor Concerns

Cracks and Gaps

Walk around your property and note any places you may lose heating. Small cracks and gaps around windows or your garage door may not expose you to grave danger during a storm, but they could add up to considerable savings on energy costs when addressed.

Gutters

Clean leaves and debris from your gutters. When the storms hit, you don’t want a build-up of water freezing, leading to ice and damage to your roof and home. If you spot icicles, it is a sign that there could be a problem. It is vital to repair any issues to avoid risking severe damage to your home’s structure.

Sidewalks

Keep your sidewalks shoveled and clear of snow and ice. You don’t want visitors to your home to slip and be forced to file a claim against your personal liability policy.

Roofing

It is time to invest in repairs if you have structural issues with your roof or any leaks. Repairs can be managed on cold days without too much snow. A collapsed roof from heavy, wet snow can be a disaster and impossible to resolve in a howling storm.

Air Quality Control

Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Your household smoke and carbon monoxide detectors should be tested at least once per year. As carbon monoxide poisoning occurs most often during winter, now is the time to check your alarm and replace the batteries. Also, verify the “replace by” date on the back of your device and get it changed out if it is overdue, which should occur about every five to seven years.

Engine Check

While your car isn’t a part of your home, it is wise to think ahead and ensure the engine, oil, and belts are in good condition and can handle the challenges of the winter months. Remember, gas engines running in an enclosed space release carbon monoxide, a deadly odorless gas. Thousands of deaths are caused by unintentional carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning in the U.S. annually. Always run your car engine and any gas-powered generators outside the house or garage and away from ventilation systems leading indoors. When engines are on inside the garage, even if the doors are open, enough CO can build up and cause serious or deadly consequences.

Stay Safe and Secure with Compatible Coverage

By taking precautions, you can prevent the worst of any storm damage. Not everything can be predicted and prevented, so make sure your homeowner’s insurance is in good shape. Our agents can help answer any questions on whether your current policy includes structural, personal property, and specific peril coverage and how to fill the gaps as needed. Contact us for an interview today.