What Are the Best Fall and Winter Preventive Measures for your Vacation Property?

Summer is over, the kids are back in school, and the last of the seasonal tenants have returned to the city. Your vacation property will be closed for a few months. What precautions should you take to make certain it will be safe from damage during the off season? Also, to avoid sleepless nights, what can you do now to ensure your investment will offer vacation rental damage protection throughout the coming season? 

To begin, if you do not already have a vacation rental damage protection insurance policy, get one. If you already do, be sure to review your plan and make sure any property upgrades are included. Have you purchased new furniture? Added a fire pit? Maybe a cabana on the property? What about a kitchen remodel, complete with a granite waterfall island and upscale appliances? Be sure these are covered against damage or loss.

During the off season, there is a high incidence of break-ins in vacant properties. Theft and vandal-proof your investment with the best security monitoring system you can afford. It could pay for itself in income you do not lose due to property damage. Also, examine the option of requiring vacation rental damage insurance for renters. Your responsible tenants will enjoy themselves as well, knowing that any unexpected destruction of your property (in case their pets and children behave like pets and children) will be fully covered. Let’s not forget the potential for damage from ice and snow. Before you leave for the season, make sure gutters and leaders as well as roofing is in good working order. If you live more than an hour away from your vacation rental, consider hiring a property manager and maintenance person to look after your investment property.

The preparations you take now, will ensure months, even years of trouble-free seasons. First, carry vacation rental damage insurance for renters. This way, you’ll have vacation rental damage protection above and beyond what the security deposit would cover. Second, consult with our professional team at United Public Adjusters and Appraisers, Inc. We can take stock of your rental, take note of any potential liabilities, and advise you so you’ll be fully prepared for next season’s tenants. This way, in the event of damages or loss, we can assist with documentation, claim preparation and submission, even negotiations with your insurer, all to provide you with the highest level of service and the optimal settlement possible under your policy. Call today: 800-718-5677.