Does it ever seems like the world is less of a safe place to you? It's not that the risk of damage to your home wasn't always there- it's just that in today’s news networked world, we hear about causes of damage to homes more often. It's undeniable that the natural disasters, theft and damage scare stories we see have a basis in fact, and it's only wise to protect you and your family from the following threats:
Nature
Perhaps the biggest adversary to the security of our homes in these times of rapid climate change are natural disasters. 1,691 tornadoes occurred in the U.S. in 2011, at a cost of $28 billion, and then there are disastrous floods, incidences of wildfire and other phenomena to guard against. The type of protection homeowners insurance can offer gives you peace of mind that you can't put a price on.
Fire Hazards
Domestic fires are a huge threat in homes packed full of electric appliances- especially so in the winter months as more people embrace log burners and fireplaces. In an average year, 374,000 residences catch fire, resulting in $7.32 billion in loss. The devastation could be staggering, so always make sure you have a home fire safety plan in place and check fire alarms regularly to ensure they are working well.
Theft and Damage
Theft is also a leading cause of loss of goods and damage to property as well as being a traumatic experience for those who have experienced it. Although installing a home security system can help, knowing that you are covered in the event that the worst does happen is not only an investment in your home, but also in your mental health. Not much feels worse than knowing someone invaded your home and privacy.
Leaks and Flooding
Often, internal leaks are the last thing that comes to mind when you consider protecting your home, but if one begins it can very quickly cause a large amount of damage. Take extra care when tackling any DIY projects, as accidentally nailing through a water pipe can be a costly mistake and means you'll have to shut down the water mains until it's fixed. Equally, in regions that reach freezing temperatures, water can expand and burst pipes that aren't properly insulated. Make sure you do a yearly check on the washing machine and it's hoses to check for loose connections or deterioration of the piping material. If you're not home and one bursts it can be majorly unwelcome news.
Most of these risks can be guarded against with a little vigilance, some sensible practice in the home and a solid homeowners insurance policy. Make sure that you have a clear emergency plan that all family members are aware of, and when selecting insurance coverage make sure everyone is aware of what you are covered for, as otherwise the costs of recovering from a home disaster can be devastating for a family. While no one can make themselves 100% safe from any type of disaster, you can make sure that you are prepared and covered to help you feel more at ease that support is there if it's ever needed.
Comments