Summer Home Insurance Claims: What Homeowners Need to Know

Summer brings long, sunny days and the perfect weather for outdoor activities. However, it also comes with its own set of challenges for homeowners. From unexpected storms to the increased use of appliances, summer conditions can lead to various types of home damage. As your insurance company, we’re here to help you understand the common summer home insurance claims and provide proactive tips to protect your home.

Common Summer Home Insurance Claims

Fire Damage

Summer activities often involve using appliances more frequently, which can increase the risk of house fires if they aren’t properly maintained. Common culprits include dryer lint buildup and electrical malfunctions. Regular maintenance can significantly reduce these risks.

Roof and Siding Damage

Summer storms, with their high winds and flying debris, can wreak havoc on your roof and siding. Inspect your roof for loose or damaged shingles and consider investing in storm-resistant materials if you live in a high-risk area.

Electrical Damage

Lightning strikes and power surges during summer storms can lead to severe electrical damage within your home. Protect your home by installing surge protectors and ensuring your electrical system is up to date.

Water Damage

Heavy summer rains can make water damage a prevalent concern. Check your home’s drainage systems to ensure they are clear and functioning correctly. Regularly inspect your basement and foundation for any signs of water infiltration.

Drain and Sewer Buildup

Summer showers can overwhelm drains and sewers, leading to backups and flooding. Keep your drains clear of debris and consider installing backwater valves to prevent sewage from backing up into your home.

Proactive Tips to Manage Summer Risks

Maintain Your Appliances

• Upgrade Hoses: Replace standard washing machine hoses with braided steel ones to prevent leaks.
• Clean Dryer Vents: Regularly clean your dryer vent to reduce the risk of house fires.
• Inspect Refrigerators: Check hoses connected to your refrigerator’s ice machine for small leaks that could cause significant water damage.

Inspect and Replace Caulking

• Bathtubs, Showers, Sinks, Windows, and Doors: Look for aging or cracked caulking and replace it to prevent water damage.

Address Tripping Hazards

• Walkways: Fix uneven walkways on your property.
• Stairs: Repair loose, slippery, or uneven treads to prevent accidents.

Check Your Roof

• Shingles: Inspect for damaged or loose shingles and replace them to prevent water seepage.
• Gutters and Downspouts: Clean them to ensure proper water flow away from your property.

Consider Home System Upgrades

• Central Station Alarms: Install for added protection from burglary and vandalism.
• Surge Protectors: Safeguard your appliances and electronics from electrical damage.
• Whole-House Water Flow Alarm: Detect leaks early to prevent water damage.
• Backwater Valves: Prevent sewage backups into your home.
• Whole-House Generator: Maintain power during outages.

Insurance Discounts

Don’t let common summer risks catch you off guard—take action to safeguard your home today. Consult with our agents to learn more about how you can help prevent common summer homeowners’ claims and potentially lower your premiums.