I Know I’m Forgetting Something, But What?
You’ve been planning this vacation for months. You’ve packed your bags (over-packed no doubt), scheduled every moment of the next two weeks and cancelled your newspaper delivery. Your airline tickets are secured safely in your travel bag, but you can’t shake this nagging feeling that you’ve forgotten something. What if the very thing you’ve forgotten is actually something you don’t even know you need to do?
So many homeowners leave for days, week, even months at a time, forgetting about their home insurance altogether. What happens if disaster strikes? Do you know what is required to make sure you remain in good standing with your policy? Chances are the answer is“NO!”
If you are going away for more than 3 days, your homeowner’s insurance could be invalid unless you have put safeguards in place to minimize potential damage and risks such as burst water pipes, flooding, vandalism or burglary. A few simple steps can help ensure that if anything does go wrong, your Insurance will help you take care of the damages. (Please note that each insurance policy is different and it is your responsibility to know the fine print). Think about:
- Asking a trusted neighbour or friend to check on your house regularly during your absence. Not only can they alert you to issues, but having someone turn on a light and pick up your mail and papers makes your home look lived in. This might just deter a burglar.
- Installing a water detection alarm in your home will help safeguard your home against a water leak. Look for a device that you can install on your home’s main water supply line. the benefit is that in addition to alerting you to a leak, the device will instantly shut off the water flow, minimizing damage.
- Turning off your water and heat altogether. This is most critical in the winter months, but a good habit to adopt every time you go on vacation.
- Informing your Insurance Provider is a great suggestion and can answer all those “what if” questions you might have. Some policies may even require you alert them to an unoccupied home.
The best advice we can give you is KNOW BEFORE YOU GO. Take a few minutes to make that call… you’ll never regret making the call but you could regret not.
If you have concerns about your home insurance coverage while on vacation, call 248-817-8071 and discuss with your E&Y Agency Team. We’ll make sure that your home is protected even when you’re not there so you can enjoy your vacation. Go on… you’ve deserved it! Don’t forget to send us a postcard!
