Taking a vacation is exciting! What isn’t exciting? Coming home to property damage from a disaster can quickly turn that excitement into a nightmare. To ensure your home is safe while you're away, it's essential to take preventive measures against water damage and fires.
The team here at Liberty Insurance Adjusters put together some practical tips to help you prevent damage while away. Let’s get started!
Preventing Water Damage
Water damage can cause extensive harm to your home, but a few simple precautions can help you avoid it. Start by checking all water sources in your home, including faucets, pipes, and water heaters, for any leaks. Fix any issues before you leave to prevent potential problems.
Another useful tip is to turn off the main water supply if you'll be away for an extended period. This step ensures that even if a pipe bursts, the water damage will be minimal. Additionally, you can install a water leak detection system that alerts you to leaks and can automatically shut off the water supply if a leak is detected.
Preventing Fires
Fire safety is equally important. Unplug all non-essential electrical devices, such as toasters, coffee makers, and televisions, to reduce the risk of electrical fires. Ensure that your smoke detectors are functioning correctly and replace the batteries if necessary.
It's also wise to have someone check on your home periodically. This can be a neighbor or a friend who can ensure everything is in order and take immediate action if something seems amiss.
Secure Your Home
Securing your home is another crucial step. Ensure all doors and windows are locked, and consider using timers for your lights to give the appearance that someone is home. If you have a security system, make sure it's activated, and inform your security company of your absence.
Steps to Take If You Find Damage
If you come home to find water damage or signs of a fire, the first thing to do is stay calm and ensure your safety. Follow these steps to address the situation:
Call a Public Adjuster First: Before contacting your insurance company, call a public adjuster like Liberty Insurance Adjusters. They work on your behalf to assess the damage and ensure you get the maximum compensation from your insurance claim.
Thoroughly Document All Damage: Take detailed photos and videos of all the damage. This documentation will be crucial when filing your insurance claim and can help speed up the process.
Let Liberty Handle the Rest: After we get all the info, our team will file and thoroughly manage your claim. We will provide them with all the evidence and any additional information they require, ensuring you make all the right steps for the maximum payout.
Count on Liberty Insurance Adjusters
Vacations should be a time to relax and unwind, not worry about potential disasters at home. By taking these preventive steps, you can significantly reduce the risk of water damage and fires.
If you do find damage at any time, remember to Liberty Insurance Adjusters first (after any emergency services of course). We’ll work with you to document the damage and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.