Heading out for the holidays? While we all hope our holidays will be smooth sailing when it comes to traveling – from across the city to across the country – we’re not always so lucky. Empty homes, dangerous roads, and perhaps a few issues with luggage and presents can all take the jolly out of the holidays. We’re going to look at how your property insurance, such as renters and homeowners, helps keep you and property safe these holidays, even when you’re far from home.
Homeowners Insurance: Keeping More Than Your Home Safe
A house is a big investment, and it can be nerve-wracking to leave it and your valuables at home during the holidays if you and your family are heading out for the holidays. This is why homeowners insurance is so important to provide peace of mind.
Worried About Home Break-Ins?
Leaving your home alone for a long time can feel like tempting fate. If you are going to be away, make sure you’ve reviewed and done a home inventory recently to make sure you’ve got coverage on all your possessions. If you’ve got high-value items like jewelry, you may need a separate policy. This way, you can make sure all your items are covered. Want to avoid tempting thieves? Here are a few ideas.
- Don’t Share Your Plans: Avoiding sharing your holiday plans (when you or others will be away) more than you have to and try to avoid it on social media.
- Don’t Leave Any Signs: Make sure to avoid leaving signs of your absence. Get your mail stopped, park your car in your drive (or get neighbors to), put a light on a timer. More tips here.
- Don’t Leave Valuables Out: If thieves case the place first, don’t tempt them. Make sure jewelry is locked up, don’t keep cash in the house, and think what you can do to hide other valuables.
Avoiding Accidents and Disasters While You’re Away
Theft isn’t the only risk to your home, especially during the winter. Weather and temperature can play havoc with a home, which can lead to disaster if you haven’t prepared for it. Frozen pipes and ice dams are two common issues. Make sure not to turn off the heat while you’re away, and think about hiring a snow and ice management company to clear off the roof while you’re gone if there’s going to be a big snowstorm. If your home is damaged, make sure to take photos and file a claim as soon as possible.
Have Renter’s Insurance Instead?
If you rent instead of owning, a lot of these tips (and coverage) apply to you as well – if you have renters insurance. Learn why you should get this coverage in our blog, Is Renters Insurance Worth It? Make sure to check your policy about the specific coverage and amounts.
Make sure your home, car, and other property are covered this holiday season and all the others. Talk to us here at the TJ Woods Insurance Agency about your current coverage and any gaps those holiday gifts might cause. Contact us online or over the phone at 1-800-696-5944 today!
