Top 4 Causes for Home Damage, According to Travelers Insurance

8/4/2020 (Permalink)

No one wants to imagine something going wrong with their house.

While no one wants to imagine something going wrong with their house, accidents happen. It’s important to be prepared for the worst. When a bad storm hits your town or a pipe bursts in your basement, for example, it can create severe and costly property damage.

Home insurance is critical to protecting your home when damage strikes; it’ll help cover the expenses when you need to fix or replace something. While claims may be unpredictable, there are a few things you can do around your house to help prevent these common causes of property damage in the first place.

1. WIND

The Damage

The most common causes of property damage and home insurance claims are wind-related. Gusts of wind can uproot trees, damage roofs or even send outdoor furniture flying through windows.

What You Can Do

It’s important to limit the risk before the wind picks up. Look around your house and ask yourself ‘What could hit my home?’ Trees that are close to your home, furniture, etc can all be a cause of damage in high winds. Once you identify your risks, take precautions. Keeping trees pruned, strengthening structures and storing projectile objects indoors before a storm are great ways to get your home ready. This simple step could be the difference between a home insurance claim or just a little clean up once the storm passes.

2. NONWEATHER-RELATED WATER

Twenty percent of reported property damage comes from non-weather-related water.

The Damage

When you think of water damage, you likely think of weather and flooding as the most common source. However, it’s actually more common for damage to come from water that is already inside your home. Things like the dishwasher, washing machine, pipes and toilets can all cause leaks or flooding.

What You Can Do

Always know where the water sources are and perform routine inspections. For example, if your washing machine has a rubber hose, you should check it annually for cracks or wear. Also consider turning off your water when you will be away from home for a long periods of time.

3. HAIL

The Damage

Hail affects many different areas of the country, sometimes unexpectedly. Because it is often difficult to avoid hail striking, it is no surprise that it causes costly damage to cars and homes.

What You Can Do

If you have car, park it in a garage or under a roof if possible. Move items susceptible to hail damage, such as patio furniture, indoors or under a covered area.

While you can’t do much to protect your home or roof, you can try to strengthen it before hail strikes. Installing sturdy building materials that are more resistant to this type of hazard can reduce the damage.

4. WEATHER-RELATED WATER

The Damage

While it may not be as high on the list as non-weather-related water claims, storms can bring costly water claims. Heavy rain and flooding can do a number on your house, but there are a few things you can do to prevent damage.

What You Can Do

Make sure your roof is in good condition and that the shingles aren’t old and worn. Downspouts should direct water away from home. Keep your gutters properly cleaned and free of debris. Take note of any areas where water pools near your home after a heavy rain and level the ground or install drainage. During the winter months, remove snow accumulation from the roof after every storm and insulate pipes.

Please follow our page, as we continue to explore the benefits of mitigation, and how this approach helps both your clients and your business. Please call us with any questions you have, 715-381-2266. Visit our site: SERVPRO of The Saint Croix Valley