We all want to keep our homeowners insurance premiums to a minimum to save money each month, yet each time we file a claim we run the risk of having our premiums raised. It is therefore a must to do what we can to eliminate filing an insurance claim.
The winter months, in particular, are a time when homeowner’s insurance claims go through the roof across the country. This is due, in part, to the ice and snow that accompanies many winters throughout the country. From ice and water damage to frozen pipes and slip-and-fall accidents, there are many instances in which a winter storm can bring upon an influx of homeowners insurance claims.
There are, however, steps you can take to prevent needless homeowner’s insurance claims during the winter months:
- Keep your tree limbs cut back; particularly those that hang over your home. Winter storms can bring them down on your house, either because of wind or ice, thereby damaging your home in the process.
- Keep the interior of your home heated to at least 65 degrees to prevent pipes from freezing. Wrap any exposed pipes with pipe insulation to further protect them from freezing.
- If you lose power during a winter storm and lose your home’s heat, open all faucets and let the water drip slowly. This will prevent the pipes from freezing.
- Always make sure your fireplace or wood stove is properly vented and has been serviced by a professional fireplace technician.
- Never, ever leave space heaters unattended, and always position them far away from any flammable material, such as curtains, rugs or bed linens.
- Always keep your sidewalk, walkways and driveway free of snow and ice. Check with your city or borough about laws regarding the removal of snow and ice from your property.
- Make sure your gutters have been thoroughly cleaned before the winter weather begins as to clear them of any leaves and debris that can cause ice dams in the winter.
- Disconnect the water from all outside spigots before freezing weather begins.
Tags: homeowners insurance, homeowners insurance claims, raised premiums