Avoid Costly Home Insurance Claims By Staying Safe

Summer is the time for backyard barbecues, relaxing afternoons by the pool, fireworks displays and roasting marshmallows over the fire pit. It is also the time in which home insurance claims skyrocket. , That’s why it is important to take safety measures to avoid making a costly claim on your home insurance policy. Small claims can be more expensive than large ones, especially if you have a considerable deductible to pay before you are reimbursed for any damages.

For the grill masters, remember to never leave anything on the barbecue or grill unattended. Be sure to thoroughly clean your gas or charcoal grill often. Buildup of grease and debris can create a fire hazard. Always be sure the grill is a safe distance from the house or any other structure.

Some insurance companies will charge you more in premiums if you have a pool or trampoline. Be sure to check your homeowner’s policy to find any safety guidelines you are required to follow, such as installing a certain height fence or locked gate around the pool. An insurance company can (and most will) deny coverage or cancel your policy if you do not follow the safety guidelines or do not inform the company when you install a pool or trampoline. Owning either a trampoline or pool puts you at increased risk for liability claims.

While tossing a few fireworks into the fire pit may sound like a good idea for any 12-year-old boy, it’s an insurance claim waiting to happen. Never allow children to use fireworks. Always supervise any open fire in the pit. Have a bucket of water available to douse used fireworks and to put out a wayward fire.

You should also speak with a qualified insurance agent about all the ways in which you can avoid making costly policy claims. Our agents know all the summer pitfalls of homeownership. We can identify your insurance risks, suggest coverage options and even assist you in finding a better policy at a more affordable rate. Contact us to find out how you can avoid those costly claims, while saving on a home insurance policy that meets your needs and budget.