Top Home Insurance Claims and How to Prevent Them

When it comes to protecting your home (and your wallet), prevention is your best friend. Some of the most common home insurance claims can be prevented with just a bit of forethought and upkeep. Whether it’s water damage, storm-related chaos, or theft, we’re here to shed some light on these top claims and give you practical, easy-to-follow tips to protect your castle.

Think of this as your go-to guide for keeping your home safe and your home insurance premiums in check. Ready? Let’s dive in.

1. Water Damage: The Sneaky Silent Threat

Water damage is one of the biggest culprits behind home insurance claims—but it’s not always obvious until it’s too late. Burst pipes, leaking appliances, clogged gutters, or even a slow drip from the roof can add up to a soaked and costly mess.

How to Prevent Water Damage:

• Show Your Gutters Some Love: Clear out leaves and debris regularly, especially in fall and before heavy rain. Clogged gutters can send water straight into your walls and foundation.
• Watch the Pipes: Keep an eye on exposed pipes for cracks or leaks, especially in the cold months when freezing is a problem. Insulating pipes can save you from a burst pipe disaster.
• Mind the Appliances: Check your washing machine, dishwasher, and fridge water lines periodically. Those sneaky leaks can add up over time.
• Seal the Roof: Inspect your roof for missing shingles or cracked seals—this is often the first line of defense against water coming in.

2. Storm-Related Damage: When Mother Nature Strikes

Wild weather—like high winds, hail, or heavy rain—can leave your home vulnerable. Whether it’s flying debris or toppled trees, storm-related damage is another big reason homeowners file insurance claims.

How to Prevent Storm Damage:

• Secure Outdoor Furniture: Prevent patio chairs and decorations from turning into projectiles. Tie them down or store them indoors when you know a storm’s coming.
• Trim Those Trees: Overhanging branches are just asking for trouble. Keep trees trimmed, especially the ones near your roof and windows.
• Reinforce Windows and Doors: If you live in a storm-prone area, consider installing storm shutters or impact-resistant glass. They can’t prevent a storm, but they’ll protect your home from its aftermath.
• Check Your Roof (Again): After a storm, inspect your roof for damage or loose materials. The quicker you catch a problem, the easier (and cheaper!) it’ll be to fix.

3. Theft: Keeping Your Home Your Own

No one wants to imagine their home being broken into, but theft is one of the top home insurance claims year after year. The good news? There are simple ways to discourage burglars from targeting your home.

How to Prevent Theft:

• Lights, Camera, Action: Install motion-sensor lights and security cameras around your home. They’re great deterrents and can give you peace of mind.
• Lock Up Tight: Make sure doors and windows have functioning locks. Invest in deadbolts or smart locks—you’ll be glad you did.
• Be Sneaky About Vacations: Avoid sharing travel plans or photos on social media until you’re back home. It’s basically an open invitation for burglars.
• Get to Know Your Neighbors: A connected community tends to watch out for each other—and for each other’s homes.

Why Prevention Pays Off

Aside from keeping your home safe and sound, prevention can help keep your insurance premiums low. The fewer claims you file, the less likely your rates will go up. Plus, you’ll save yourself the stress and hassle of dealing with repairs and replacements.

Make it a habit to check your home for potential risks before they turn into expensive repairs. A little effort today can make a world of difference tomorrow.

Bonus Tip: Make Sure You’re Properly Insured

While prevention is key, sometimes life happens—and that’s where home insurance comes in. Take a moment to review your policy and ensure it covers everything you need, from storm damage to theft and those pesky plumbing issues. And if you’re not sure, that’s what we’re here for!

At Tanner Insurance, we make home insurance simple and stress-free. Our team is here to answer your questions and find a policy that fits your unique needs.

Chat with us anytime—we’re here to help you protect what matters most.

Looking for more insurance tips? Browse our blog for more easy-to-understand advice. Don’t forget to follow us for updates, and let’s keep your home safe—together.