Preparing for winter incidents and cold
weather claims begins with prevention methods and thorough insurance
protection. Let’s take a look at the most common causes of claims in winter
weather and what you can do to protect yourself from these costly concerns.
Hidden
behind that gorgeous blanket of snow are harsh winter storms waiting to do
serious damage to your home. The winter season creates the most common and
costly claims for home and car owners. In fact, III
estimated that winter storms caused $1 billion in insured
losses in 2016.They also found that the overall percentage of winter-related claims has increased at a higher rate than previous decades, likely due to the severity of storms and increase in the number of people with insurance protection. Nearly 51% of all insurance homeowners’ claims come from wintery wind, hail, and weather-related water damage. Moreover, more collisions and “acts of God” occur while out on the road during or after a winter storm.
Preparing for winter incidents and cold weather claims begins with prevention methods and thorough insurance protection. Let’s take a look at the most common causes of claims in winter weather and what you can do to protect yourself from these costly concerns.
Wind damage
The most common homeowners claim filed is due to wind damage. Nearly one in 35 insured homes have a property damage claim related to wind or hail each year, according to The Insurance Information Institute. Wind is more intense during the winter months and thus creates a majority of these costly claims.Prepare for wind damage:
- Remove and store all unsecured outdoor items like umbrellas, furniture, and play items.
- Inspect your home for loose gutters, shutters, and shingles.
- Trim dead or weak tree branches around the house. Tree collapse is the third most costly winter weather claim, averaging nearly $6,000 per tree.
- Be aware of nearby power lines. Trim trees around power lines. Ensure power lines near your property are secure. If not, call the phone or cable company for further fastening.
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