Summer is prime vacation season across Ohio! Whether you’re heading to the coast, exploring national parks, or simply visiting family, leaving your home empty for an extended period can bring a subtle sense of worry. While you’re enjoying your well-deserved break, your home is more vulnerable to various risks, from opportunistic thieves to unexpected water damage.
At Bucher Insurance, we want you to relax completely on your travels. That means taking a few proactive steps to safeguard your property before you leave. Beyond locking your doors, here are three key areas to focus on to protect your home while you’re away, and how your insurance can offer a critical safety net.
1. Deterring Theft: Make Your Home Look Occupied
An empty house is often an inviting target for burglars. The good news is, there are many simple ways to create the illusion that someone is still home, making your property less appealing to potential intruders.
- Lights on Timers: Set interior lights to turn on and off at varying times, mimicking natural occupancy. Consider smart bulbs you can control from your phone.
- Mail and Deliveries: Arrange for a trusted neighbor to collect your mail and newspapers, or pause delivery services. A pile of mail is a clear sign that no one is home.
- Lawn Care: If you’re going to be away for more than a few days, arrange for your lawn to be mowed or plants watered. An unkempt yard can signal absence.
- Don’t Announce Your Absence Online: Resist the urge to post your vacation plans and photos on social media in real-time. Share your amazing memories after you’re back home.
- Secure All Entry Points: Double-check all windows and doors, including those on upper floors and in the basement. Lock sheds and garages. Consider adding deadbolts or security bars.
How Home Insurance Helps: If, despite your best efforts, your home experiences a break-in and theft, your homeowners insurance policy generally provides coverage for your personal belongings. This is usually under the “Personal Property” section of your policy, which covers your possessions up to a specified limit, whether they’re stolen from your home, car, or even a hotel room while you’re traveling.
2. Preventing Water Damage: A Silent Threat
Water damage can be far more insidious and destructive than a break-in, often going unnoticed for days or weeks while you’re away. A burst pipe, a leaky appliance hose, or a malfunctioning sump pump can cause thousands of dollars in damage very quickly.
- Shut Off the Main Water Supply: This is arguably the most effective step. If you’re comfortable doing so, turn off the main water valve to your home. This prevents any water from flowing through your pipes, eliminating the risk of burst pipes or major leaks.
- Inspect Hoses and Appliances: Before you leave, check hoses on your washing machine, dishwasher, refrigerator, and water heater for any signs of wear, bulging, or leaks. Consider replacing older rubber hoses with stainless steel braided ones.
- Clear Gutters and Downspouts: Ensure they are free of debris to prevent water backup around your foundation, especially if rain is in the forecast.
- Test Your Sump Pump: If you have a sump pump, test it to ensure it’s working correctly before you go.
How Home Insurance Helps: Most homeowners insurance policies include coverage for sudden and accidental water damage (e.g., a burst pipe). However, coverage can vary greatly depending on the cause. For instance, damage from a gradual leak or neglect might not be covered. Flood damage, caused by external flooding, requires a separate flood insurance policy, which is typically not part of standard homeowners insurance. Understanding these nuances before you leave is crucial.
3. Remote Monitoring: Your Eyes and Ears While Away
Technology offers powerful tools to keep an eye on your home from anywhere. Remote monitoring systems can provide peace of mind and even deter potential issues.
- Smart Security Systems: These systems can include cameras, door/window sensors, and motion detectors that you can monitor via an app on your smartphone. Many also offer professional monitoring services that alert authorities in case of an emergency.
- Smart Water Leak Detectors: Place small sensors near appliances like water heaters, sinks, and washing machines. If they detect moisture, they send an alert to your phone. Some advanced systems can even automatically shut off your home’s main water supply.
- Smart Thermostats: You can monitor and adjust your home’s temperature remotely, which is important for preventing pipes from freezing in colder months (though less of a concern in summer, it’s good for overall home care).
How Home Insurance Interacts: Many insurance companies offer discounts for homes equipped with security systems, smart sensors, and other protective devices. Be sure to inform your insurance provider about any smart home technology you install, as it could save you money on your premiums!
Make Sure Your Policy Is Ready Before You Leave Town!
Taking a few preventative measures goes a long way in protecting your home. But for truly comprehensive peace of mind, your insurance policy is your ultimate safety net. Before you pack your bags, take a few minutes to:
- Review your current homeowners insurance policy.
- Understand your coverage limits for personal property and water damage.
- Inquire about any special riders or endorsements you might need.
- Confirm if you have flood insurance if your property is in a high-risk area.
Don’t leave your most valuable asset unprotected. Contact Jon or Emily at Bucher Insurance today to make sure your policy is ready before you leave town. We’re here to help Ohio homeowners enjoy their vacations knowing their home is secure!
