Reduce Summer Water Issues to Minimize Home Insurance Claims

Often, we hear about tips for winterizing our home, but it is equally important to know how to protect your home during the hot and humid months of summer to avoid damages.

First and foremost, inspect for leaks from rain. Water invasion can wreak havoc on the integrity of your home. Check during heavy rain for leaks around windows, in your attic, and in your basement.

High humidity levels in your home can cause serious damage, includ­ing mold (which is not a covered insurance loss on most homeowners policies). If you have a damp basement, invest in a dehumidifier to keep humidity levels down and prevent mold.

Speaking of mold, it can grow unchecked in a very short period of time, so remember to keep your moisture control system running when you go on vacation. Whether you use air conditioning, fans or dehumidifiers, continu­ous removal of moisture from your indoor envi­ronment can prevent a nasty buildup of mold on walls, cabinets, flooring, and even furni­ture and textiles.

Often, we hear about tips for winterizing our home, but it is equally important to know how to protect your home during the hot and humid months of summer to avoid damages.

First and foremost, inspect for leaks from rain. Water invasion can wreak havoc on the integrity of your home. Check during heavy rain for leaks around windows, in your attic, and in your basement.

High humidity levels in your home can cause serious damage, includ­ing mold (which is not a covered insurance loss on most homeowners policies). If you have a damp basement, invest in a dehumidifier to keep humidity levels down and prevent mold.

Speaking of mold, it can grow unchecked in a very short period of time, so remember to keep your moisture control system running when you go on vacation. Whether you use air conditioning, fans or dehumidifiers, continu­ous removal of moisture from your indoor envi­ronment can prevent a nasty buildup of mold on walls, cabinets, flooring, and even furni­ture and textiles.

Clogged gutters (not only an autumn problem) and leaky hose bibs are other hazards that can lead to water damage, so inspect and eliminate any potential problems to protect against hidden decay in walls and foundations. Remember, damage from neglect is usually excluded from insurance coverage.