Your home insurance policy is designed to help you pay for the cost of repairs or replacements if your home is damaged by a covered event. But if you’ve ever filed an insurance claim, you know that getting the money you deserve can be tough at best. That’s why Michigan property insurance claims attorneys always encourage homeowners to be proactive and find ways to protect their property and reduce the risk of needing to file an insurance claim in the first place. Here are a few tips to keep in mind.
Stay on Top of Routine Maintenance
Much of the damage resulting from severe weather can be prevented with routine maintenance. Get in the habit of assessing the condition of your home at least once a month. If you notice anything that’s not working correctly or that’s in need of repair, get it taken care of as soon as possible. This helps you address damage when it’s minor and cheaper to fix but also helps you avoid having to file an insurance claim in the future by ensuring that your home is in the best condition it can be in.
Check Your Smoke Detectors Weekly
Fires can happen with little to no warning, and if you don’t catch them when they’re small, your loved ones and your property will be at risk. Check your smoke detectors weekly by running the test cycle on each one in your home. If you receive any low battery indicators, replace the batteries immediately. The exact steps you’ll need to follow will depend on your system. Consult the manual or call the manufacturer for advice if needed.
Upgrade Your Locks and Security Systems
Break-ins and theft can result in significant financial loss. While your property insurance policy should cover the damage, keeping unwanted intruders out of your home should always be a priority. Consider upgrading your locks to impact-resistant and pick-resistant models. Make sure your windows latch securely and replace them if needed. If you have the money to do so, you may also want to install a security monitoring system throughout your home. These methods may not prevent all break-ins, but they can reduce the risk of your home being targeted, sparing you the frustration of having to file an insurance claim.
Make Your Landscaping a Priority
Your landscaping does more than just make your property look great. It can also lead to extensive damage if it’s neglected. Give your landscaping some TLC throughout the year. Have trees trimmed by experienced professionals to reduce the risk of limbs falling on your property. Maintain clear drainage channels around your garden beds and the sides of your home to reduce the risk of foundation damage.
Pick up Heavy Outdoor Items Before Storms
During severe weather, high winds can pick up and move large pieces of outdoor furniture, toys, and other heavy items. If those items crash into your fence or your home, they can cause a lot of damage. When severe weather is in the forecast, consider picking up those heavy items. Bring them into your garage, storage shed, or the entryway of your home to reduce the risk of damage.
Avoiding Claims Isn’t Always Possible
These tips can help you reduce the number of insurance claims you may need to file over your homeownership journey. But even the most proactive homeowner won’t be able to completely prevent the need to file a claim. Remember, you purchased property insurance to protect your property. If you need to file a claim, file it as soon as possible. The sooner you do, the sooner you can get the money you need.
If your insurance claim is denied, you can and should appeal the decision. Let an experienced Michigan property insurance attorney at Fabian, Sklar, King & Liss help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.