Are You Prepared for the Unexpected?

5/7/2020 (Permalink)

Be proactive to protect your home & wallet from costly insurance claims.

Did you know that weather-related damage makes up over 50% of homeowner insurance claims? Fire damage is the most expensive of weather related damage. Water damage caused by weather is less common than water damage un-related to weather, such as a leak in the water heater or bathtub overflow; which makes up about 1 in 5 claims.

These emergencies can happen without warning and to anyone. Here are the most common homeowner insurance claims and what you can do to mitigate the damage or even prevent it completely.

Wind Damage

The roof of any structure is the most susceptible to be damaged by wind. Check the stability of your roof often; it will be worth the money to get a professional roofer to inspect it for you, especially if you’re unsure of when the last inspection occurred. 

Be aware of potential hazards that could fall during strong winds such as tree limbs or large trees. Have any trees near your home trimmed regularly and remove any dead trees whose roots may be unstable under pressure. Bring in patio furniture or any other outdoor items that could become projectiles during strong winds. 

Water Damage

Do not dismiss the potential for a flood to strike your area. It can happen to anyone, anywhere and at any time. You can easily prevent flooding from heavy rain by making sure your yard and driveway slope away from your home.

The main cause for water damage in the home is not caused by weather. Regularly check the caulking around bathroom fixtures. Look for cracks or wear in water lines. If your home was constructed more than 30 years ago, it is worth your time and money to get the pipes inspected for any cracks or potential leaks.  

All homeowners should know where the water shut-off valve is in their home. If you’re not sure where this is, you can get help from SERVPRO’s ERP program.

Examine the caulking around exterior drains, gutters and windows to make sure they are tight and not weathered or cracked. Regularly clean storm drains and gutters and make any necessary repairs so they can drain safely and away from the foundation of your home.

Fire Damage

Majority of fires in the home begin in the kitchen. Keep the area around the stove clean and free of grease or food splatter. The laundry room is the next danger area. Keep dryer vents clean and have your air vents checked regularly. Fires are also commonly started by faulty wiring; this is true for new and old homes.

Though rare, lightning is the cause of an estimated $451 millions dollars in property damage each year.

Although there is not much you can do to prevent lightning from striking your home you can keep some safety tips in mind if it happens. It is best to call the fire department right away even if you do not see any signs of damage. Make sure to call from a cell phone as the electricity from another potential lightning strike can travel through a land line, causing serious or even fatal injuries. Stay away from electrical items and metal doors or window frames as they can conduct electricity. Also avoid using running water until you're sure it's safe to do so. Remember: water conducts electricity. If lightning strikes your home, the water supply line may become electrified. 

If you find yourself dealing with any of these property damage issues call SERVPRO of East Riverside City. We can help you through the whole process and even let you know if it's worth filing an insurance claim.