Q4. Are there things I can do to help protect my property from loss?

Of course there are, and most of them are basically common sense. It is important to keep up with the maintenance necessary to keep your home in good condition. This will reduce your chance of a loss, and if you do suffer a loss, it will likely be a minor one. Most homeowner policies do not cover damage from long term leakage or damage that stems from lack of maintenance. This makes it even more imperative that homeowners stay on top of their maintenance chores.

One of the most common claims we see is for water damage from plumbing leaks. It is a good idea to inspect your pipes yearly, look for drips or moisture at the joints. Look under your water heater, washing machine, dishwasher, and sinks. Catching a leak early will enable you to make a simple repair instead of suffering a devastating loss.

Another area of special concern is your roof. Leaks from the roof area can necessitate very costly repairs. Each year, before and after our rainy season, take a look at your roof. Are there loose or missing shingles? Signs of leaking? Rotting eaves? Also check around your windows for leaks or signs of moisture.

Make your property safe as possible to reduce your chances of lawsuits. If someone is hurt on your property, you can be held responsible.

Use outside lighting and alarms to make your home unattractive to burglars. If possible, join forces with your neighbors to keep your neighborhood safe.

If you do have a loss, report it immediately. We cannot emphasize this point enough. Prompt reporting is absolutely necessary to preserve your rights under your insurance policy. Make only those repairs necessary to prevent further damage until after an adjustor has inspected the damaged areas. If you remove damaged material, such as carpet, do not dispose of it until after meeting with the adjustor.

Liberty American offers some great advice on protecting your property from loss. Use the link below to read what they have to offer. This advice will be useful even if your homeowners policy is with another company.

Tips for Keeping your Property Safe