Home Comforts: Keep Your Home Property in Order...Or Risk Insurance InEligibility

Many times when asked to manage a home insurance quote, the applicant believes insurance is merely to satisfy the lender.  However, in todays market, insurers are sticklers to eligibility guidelines and not everyone fits every insurer.  Simple rules on the upkeep will ward off those red flags when insurance inspectors come knocking.  Why?  Thousands of dollars are paid out every year by the insurance companies on property claims that could have been prevented.  

As a policyholder, you are responsible for your share of the insurance contract. AGIS has listed a few key areas for property upkeep:

1. A fresh coat of paint every 10 years is the proper maintenance to prevent chips and rot.  Paint serves as a sealant from moisture penetrating into the exterior siding.

2. Concrete driveways tend to crack over the years.  Yes, liability claims have risen due to tripping over cracks in the driveway.  See one coming on, purchase a special sealant and apply. 

3.  Leaves on the roof and in the gutters.  A roof serves as protection from the elements and it can also be a haven for rotted shingles.  Periodically, it is necessary to have leaves removed from those crevices and gutters that can back up or hold water causing rot to your roof.  Rot is a major cause of leaks and if a leak is not found early, upon the next storm, the interior of your home can suffer quite some damage.

4.  Slow leaks on appliances.  Hard water can cause deterioration of the smallest parts to appliances.  Its a good idea to periodically check fixtures, hoses, and valve connections that process water or steam.  Water heaters are a major problem for claims.  If your hwh is located in the attic, use preventive measures such as a heavy duty water pan to catch leaks long before they turn into major damage.

5.  Debris.  This red flag can be detected immediately because debris can be any type material, broken down cars, rusted old appliances, children play sets scattered throughout the yard, that can cause injuries for sure.

6.  High Valuables.  Theft is a claim you want to prevent because unlike weather-related claims, this type claim can immediately cause a hike in your premium.  Preventive steps is to place valuable jewelry in bank vaults, yes, bank vaults.  Vaults built into the home can still be broken into and can place family members at higher risk when a burglary occurs.  Never invite unknown parties into your home.  If contractors are scheduled to come repair, make sure they have insurance coverage and are licensed through the state of Texas.

7.  Tree limbs and brush.  Tree limbs too close or touching the house, usually the roof, are problematic.  During a storm, tree limbs will tear into and loosen shingles eventually causing leaks down the road.  Trimming trees and bushes are important but keeping brush cleared away from your property is necessary too.  Brush can easily ignite during the heated and dry months of year.  

8.  Swimming Pool.  Ahhh, thank heaven for that cool plunge in the back yard.  Don't make your pool ineligible for that great rate.  A slide and board are definite no-nos but a fence is a must.  Why?  Strangers and even neighboring kids can wander into your pool and drown or injury themselves.  But don't forget about those invited guests too.  Liabilities happen when you are not watching carefully.  A locked fence is a deterrent that helps when a lawsuit happens.

 

9.  Would you believe the breed of your pet dog can hinder insurance eligibility? Certain dogs on the "vicious" list have a history of biting and causing severe injury to humans and neighboring dogs.  Liability lawsuits are over the top and certain canines are the result of many.  Researching the type of pet for your family is particularly important.  Not all breeds are best for your family unit.  Take the time to ensure the quality of life you will provide to a pet before purchasing or adopting.  A good place to start your questions would be the local shelter. 

10.  Burglar and fire alarm.  Although not a reason to cause ineligibility, get a discount off your homeowners when you install for the sake of safety and peace of mind. 

AGIS is pet friendly but we also want our policyholders and viewers to be aware of liabilities. Request a copy of our Home Upkeep brochure listing more valuable ways to upkeep your home and what type of dog most insurers made the top vicious list.