PRESS RELEASE: October 24, 2012 - Every homeowner wants to ensure their house is as safe as it can be to protect their loved ones as well as their property. And while insurance is important to provide a safety net, no homeowner wants to file a claim. Fortunately, staying safe and avoiding claims go hand in hand, and InsuranceHotline.com offers simple tips that will cover both sides of this coin.
A safe home is usually a claim-free home, and that means lower home insurance premiums and of course a residence that keeps people and possessions protected. To keep a home safe from potential risk factors that could cause property damage and put the people who live there at risk as well, follow these important safety tips.
Safer Electrical Systems
Especially in a home with an older wiring system, it’s important to have a professional look the electrical over and make sure there are no signs of damage or wear and tear that could result in a fire. It’s also important to keep an eye out for signs that something is functioning right. For example, a lighting fixture that flickers even with a brand new bulb may be hiding a dangerous problem.
Whenever electrical work is done on the home, hire a professional electrician. Electrical problems are a major cause of fires in homes, so any work including adding or moving outlets should be done by a pro. "Doing things yourself can save money, but this is one of the areas where it’s best to let an expert handle it." Says Tammy Ezer of InsuranceHotline.com.
Watch the Water
Water damage can quickly turn into a major disaster, and some areas are not even covered by homeowner’s insurance. Avoid a water damage claim by ensuring that all the plumbing is in good working order, and watching for signs of leaks. An increase in the water bill that isn’t otherwise explained may be a sign something is leaking.
It’s also important to keep an eye on outside water issues. Be on the lookout for drainage problems on the property as well as for gutters and downspouts that may become clogged. Repair any damage immediately that could allow water to get into the home. In a summer home such as a cottage, be sure the properly winterize water systems so that pipes won’t burst during the winter months.
Improve the Security
Burglary is one claim no homeowner wants to have to face. Improving the security of the home can prevent a break-in from happening. Make sure to lock all windows and doors when away from home – and even when someone is home. Install things like motion sensor lights that can scare off an intruder on approach. Make certain that neighbours know when the home will be unoccupied due to a trip so that they can keep an eye out for suspicious activity.
A home security system is not only a great way to make the home safer, it can also earn homeowners a reduction in their insurance premiums. Many home insurance companies offer a discount for having one installed. Some systems also monitor smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and can get emergency crews to the home faster in the case of a problem, reducing the potential damage even further.
