Protecting your home and its contents is essential for maintaining peace of mind, while also extending the life of your home. By taking these proactive measures, you can also significantly reduce the likelihood of having to file an insurance claim.
Here are our top 10 tips to reduce your home and contents claims.
Some of the tips listed below may require advice and repairs by a qualified professional.
1. Conduct Regular Maintenance
A regular maintenance schedule will help you prevent or identify problems early. Remember to check and clean your gutters regularly.
2. Practice Home Safety Habits
Simple habits can go a long way in reducing home and content claims. Always turn off appliances when not in use, unplug electronics during storms, and use surge protectors to safeguard against power surges. Lock your doors and windows when leaving the house, and never hide spare keys outside
3. Be Mindful of Water Damage
Water damage is a common cause of home insurance claims. Prevent this by regularly inspecting and maintaining your plumbing system. Fix leaky faucets, replace your flexi-hose, and keep an eye out for signs of water damage, such as damp spots or mould growth. Did you know you should generally replace your flexi-hose every 5 years?
4. Document Your Possessions
Create an inventory of your valuable possessions, including serial numbers, receipts, and photographs. Store this information in a safe place or digitally, ensuring it can be easily accessed if needed for insurance purposes.
5. Reinforce Entry Points
Ensure that all entry points, including doors, windows, and skylights, are secure. Reinforce them with quality locks, deadbolts, and security screens.
6. Secure Outdoor Spaces
Burglaries and property damage often occur in outdoor spaces. Secure your garden, patio, and garage by locking gates and installing outdoor lighting. Remember to keep your valuable items locked away.
7. Check Smoke Alarms and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Fires and carbon monoxide leaks pose a severe threat to your home and well-being. Install smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms on every floor of your house, ensuring they are in working order. Regularly replace batteries and test these devices to guarantee they are functioning correctly.
8. Maintain Adequate Home Insurance Coverage
Review your home and content insurance policy regularly to ensure you have adequate coverage. Update the policy to reflect any changes in your home's value or if you've acquired new high-value items.
9. Install Security Systems
Invest in a robust security system that includes surveillance cameras, motion sensors, and an alarm system. Visible security measures act as a deterrent to potential burglars and can significantly reduce the risk of theft or vandalism.
10. Implement Fire Safety Measures
Take proactive steps to prevent fires. Keep flammable materials away from heat sources, avoid overloading electrical outlets, and never leave cooking unattended.
By taking these proactive steps you will protect your property and also help maintain an affordable insurance premium.
Do your part to create a safer living environment for yourself and your loved ones.
