5 Common Homeowners Insurance Claims and How to Avoid Them

​Accidents happen, but it’s plain and simple common sense to plan out things in advance. In fact, one in every 15 policyholders of homeowners insurance in the U.S. files a claim each year. Thus, in order for you to avoid such difficult claims, then you need to know what these are. Here are the five most common homeowners insurance claims as well as tips so that you won’t have to go through them.

Exterior Wind Damage
This is the most common claim of those whose homes are exposed to strong winds. This is also especially true among places where wind and thunderstorms are a regular thing. Strong winds can pick up heavy objects and hurl them towards your house. Thunderstorms and hurricanes can topple trees and slam them onto your walls and windows. In order to avoid this, trim your trees and store your furniture and other stuff indoors as the storm is brewing.

Water Damage from Man-Made Events
This is what you get if you have burst pipes and broken supply lines as well as damaged hoses and other plumbing issues. This is also dangerous since the water may spill or leak into electrical outlets that support your dishwashers and washing machines. In order to avoid this claim, monitor your old equipment such as water heaters and check for leaks. Also, regularly clean your pipes, especially if you're always washing bacon grease from your plates.

Water Damage from the Weather
The snow or rain from bad weather can produce water that can damage your home. For example, snow can damage your roof. Rain can also make your roof rust. Spring melt after winter can lead to flooding. To prevent yourself from making such a claim, and to protect your house as well, remove the snow when enough has piled up. Also, keep your gutters clear of debris and twigs so that rain can pass through freely while you spare the gutter from damage.

Loss Due to Theft
One in every 250 homeowners makes a claim every year because of theft. Homeowners suffer from theft, especially stashed money and electronic equipment. The most important thing you should do to prevent theft is to lock all your doors and windows when no one's around. Install any security and alarm system as well as lights with a motor sensor.

Damage from Fire
Among all types of home insurance claims, those arising from fire damage are the ones that cost a lot. The worst part is that the damage is usually significant and wide. In order to avoid this type of claim, install smoke detectors and check them regularly for maintenance. Inspect the chimney if you have a wood-burning fireplace. Also, always check the kitchen and never leave anything plugged or unattended, especially while you're cooking.

Some Final Words
You can increase safety levels in your home if you try to remove all the possible hazards. This is not only to avoid difficult claims but also to keep your home and your whole family safe. Many homeowners insurance policies may not cover many things. Also, many of them will require you to spend a lot on the damage first before they pay you your claim.

At Priority Insurance LLC., we aim to provide comprehensive insurance policies that make your life easier. We want to help you get the insurance that fits your needs. You can get more information about our products and services by calling our agency at (864) 297-9744. Get your free quote today by CLICKING HERE.