Summer is a wonderful time to enjoy your home, spend time outdoors, and create lasting memories with family and friends. However, it’s also a season when certain risks increase, leading to some of the most common home insurance claims. At CF&P Insurance Brokers, we’ve been helping California homeowners protect their properties since 1937.
To help you avoid costly and stressful claims this summer, here are five common summer home insurance claims, and practical tips to prevent them.
Summer storms, including heavy rain, hail, and strong winds, can wreak havoc on your roof. Missing or damaged shingles, leaks, and structural issues are frequent reasons for roofing claims during the warmer months.
Prevention Tips:Regular Inspections: Check your roof before and after storm season. Look for loose, cracked, or missing shingles.
Trim Overhanging Branches: Tree limbs can break and fall onto your roof during storms, causing damage.
Maintain Gutters: Clean and secure gutters to ensure proper drainage and prevent water damage to your roof and foundation.
Your home’s siding is vulnerable to damage from hail, wind, and flying debris during summer storms. Cracks, dents, or panels being torn off can lead to expensive repairs and potential water intrusion.
Prevention Tips:Inspect Siding Regularly: Look for signs of wear or damage and address small issues before they escalate.
Proper Installation: Ensure your siding is installed correctly and securely by professionals.
Consider Protective Upgrades: In areas prone to severe weather, reinforced siding or storm shutters can add an extra layer of protection.
Summer is grilling season, but outdoor fires can quickly get out of control. Grilling accidents, unattended campfires, or dry vegetation near your home can spark fires that cause significant damage.
Prevention Tips:Practice Grill Safety: Keep your grill clean, place it away from flammable materials, and never leave it unattended.
Manage Fire Pits Carefully: Ensure campfires or fire pits are a safe distance from your home and extinguish them completely before leaving.
Clear Dry Vegetation: Remove dry leaves, grass, and brush from around your home to reduce fire risk.
Pools provide endless fun during the summer, but they also present risks. Slip-and-fall accidents, diving injuries, and drownings can lead to liability claims against homeowners.
Prevention Tips:Install Safety Fencing: Surround your pool with a fence that has a self-closing, self-latching gate to prevent unauthorized access.
Supervise Swimmers: Always watch children and inexperienced swimmers closely.
Keep Safety Equipment Handy: Life vests, reaching poles, and flotation devices should be easily accessible.
Maintain Pool Areas: Keep decks and surrounding surfaces clean and dry to prevent slips and falls.
Summer vacations and open windows can make your home an easier target for burglars. Theft is a common home insurance claim during the summer months.
Prevention Tips:Secure Doors and Windows: Always lock all entry points, even when you’re home.
Install a Security System: Alarms, cameras, and motion sensors deter burglars and alert you to suspicious activity.
Use Exterior Lighting: Motion-activated lights can discourage intruders.
Manage Deliveries: If you’re away, have mail and packages held or collected by a trusted neighbor to avoid signs that your home is unoccupied.
Summer should be a season of enjoyment, not stress over unexpected home damage or insurance claims. By taking proactive steps to protect your home from common risks like roof and siding damage, outdoor fires, pool injuries, and burglary, you can reduce your chances of filing a claim and keep your family safe.
At CF&P Insurance Brokers, we’re here to help you understand your home insurance options and ensure you have the right coverage for your needs. Contact us today to get a quote or reach out to us at (925) 956-7700 and enjoy a worry-free summer!
Does home insurance cover damage caused by pests during the summer?
Most standard home insurance policies do not cover damage caused by pests such as termites or rodents. Regular pest control is essential to prevent this type of damage.
Can I add coverage for expensive outdoor summer equipment like grills or patio furniture?
Yes, many home insurance policies allow you to add endorsements or riders to cover high-value outdoor items. Check with CF&P Insurance Brokers for options.
How can I document my property to make filing a home insurance claim easier?
Keep an updated inventory of your belongings with photos or videos and receipts. Store this documentation in a safe place or digitally for easy access.
What should I do if my home is damaged during a summer storm?
Ensure your safety first, then document the damage with photos. Contact your insurance agent promptly to report the claim and start the repair process.
