Why do Property Insurance Claims Peak During the Winter Holiday Season?

Everyone enjoys the Winter Holidays. It’s a time for family and friends to gather and memories to be made. However, according to recent statistics from the Insurance Information Institute (III), the holidays for many are impacted by property damage from storms, freezing temperatures, and fires. That is when homeowners insurance claims soar. It does not have to be that way. Here are some tips from United Public Adjusters, so you can put more ‘Ho Ho’ and less ‘Oh No!’ into your Winter Holidays:

To avoid a property insurance claim from ice, snow, wind or water damage:

• During the Fall season, inspect your home’s exterior. Clean and repair gutters, secure leaders, replace damaged shingles, and shutters.
• Trim trees, especially dead branches.
• Put any furniture or outdoor decor that could become a projectile in storage.
• Caulk around windows and door frames.
• Inside, insulate your attic, basement pipes and hot water heater.
• Destructive ice dams can be eliminated by installing attic roof vents.

To prevent a home fire:

• Avoid open flame. Substitute realistic LED lights for candles.
• If you have a fireplace, do not leave it unattended. Ensure fire is out and embers at the back of the fireplace before going to bed. The National Fire Protection Association reports that a quarter of a million house fires are caused by fireplaces and chimneys. If you have not had your chimney cleaned this year, so before the winter holidays!
• The III notes that 44% of home fires are caused by faulty space heaters. Make sure all space heaters are at least 3 feet away from walls or furniture. Turn them off before leaving the room/premises, or going to bed.

It’s no reason to be complacent if you don’t use candles, holiday lights, or have a fireplace. For 2019 the III noted over $2.1 billion in insured losses just from winter storms! Everyone knows that it is always best to be prepared. But should property damage occur, necessitating a homeowners insurance claim, be sure to contact United Public Adjusters as soon as possible. Our services include assisting you to prepare and submit your property insurance claim, and will negotiate with your insurer to make certain that you receive the highest settlement for your damages. We do not charge any fees at the onset.

For more information, contact our team at (800) 718-5677.