Spring Home Maintenance - Reduce Your Potential for Water Damage Claims to Save on Homeowners Insurance

Our customers have experienced many Homeowners Insurance claims over the past three to four years. Water damage claims have been some of the most costly claims during this time period. Why should you care?

Your homeowners insurance coverage and cost will change for the worse if you do not qualify for the preferred/standard insurer marketplace.  Insurance company underwriting differs by insurer but a good rule of thumb is that having two or more water damage claims in the last five years makes you ineligible for new or renewal homeowners insurance coverage in the preferred/standard marketplace.  In fact, we are receiving referrals from Allstate Insurance Agents and Liberty Mutual Agents because their one primary insurance company is also non-renewing or refusing to underwrite those homeowners with significant claim activity.
So what can you do to protect your future insurability?  How about putting in some time to help prevent water damage claims from sources inside your home.  Below is a good list of items for you to address as part of your Springtime Home Maintenance Plan:
ICE MAKERS

• Inspect the supply line hose for kinks and if necessary replace the hose.
• When installing the supply line hose, tightly connect the hose to the valve and avoid over-tightening.
• Leave a 3 to 4 inch space between the back of the refrigerator and the wall to prevent crimping of the hose.
• When pulling out the refrigerator be sure to avoid having the hose caught beneath the wheel.
• Locate the water shut-off valve and test it to be sure it shuts off the water supply.  Of course, replace as needed.

SHOWERS

• Inspect tile and grout every six months, paying attention to loose or cracked tiles and damaged grout lines.  Repair as needed.
• Test the shower pan to be sure it holds water at a consistent level when the drain is closed.  Call a plumber if the pan does not operate as intended.

TOILETS

• Inspect the flushing mechanism inside the toilet and supply line.
• The fill valve should shut off when the float reaches the proper water level.
• Replace flapper or fill valve assembly if you notice intermittent or constant tank refilling when the toilet is not in use.
• Ensure the connection to the supply line valve is secure and test the valve to be sure it shuts the water off.  Replace as needed.

WASHING MACHINES

• Turn supply valves off when not in use.
• Do not operate the washing machine while the home is not occupied.
• Leave a 3-4 inch gap between the back of the washing machine and wall to avoid hose kinks.
• Ensure the connection to the valve is secure and avoid over tightening.
• Replace washing machine hoses as needed and in accordance with manufacturer recommendations.

The above list is not all-inclusive because your home may have many other interior water sources to be inspected and maintained.  Also, your specific homes items listed above may need additional or different maintenance steps to help prevent water damage to your home.  Remember your CT Homeowners Insurance coverage may cover you but your long-term insurability and cost savings is under more your control if you can prevent claims with routine maintenance of items  and steps listed above.
Do you have a question about your CT or Cheshire Homeowners Insurance?

Would you like us to assist you in reviewing your coverage and provide you with quotes on your Homeowners Insurance? For more information call 203.439.2815.