Summer Isn’t Over Yet: A Mid-Season Insurance Checkup for Your Home

By late July, summer is in full swing. Air conditioners are working hard, afternoon storms are rolling through, families are traveling, and backyards are getting plenty of use.

It is also a good time to pause and check for a few small problems that could turn into expensive insurance claims.

Check Your Hoses and Water Connections

Washing machine hoses, dishwasher lines, refrigerator supply lines, and outdoor hoses can wear out over time. Look for cracks, bulges, rust, or small leaks.

A failed water line can release a surprising amount of water in a short period of time, especially when no one is home.

Consider replacing older rubber washing machine hoses with braided stainless-steel hoses and make sure everyone in the household knows where the main water shutoff is located.

Look at Gutters, Drains, and Downspouts

Summer thunderstorms can bring heavy rain in a short period of time. Leaves, branches, and debris can block gutters and drains, allowing water to collect near the foundation or enter the basement.

Make sure downspouts direct water away from the house and check basement windows, doors, and low areas around the property for signs of water intrusion.

Check Your Air-Conditioning System

Air-conditioning systems create condensation that normally drains away from the home. If the drain line becomes clogged, water may leak into ceilings, walls, or flooring.

Check around the unit for moisture and have the system serviced if you notice leaking, unusual noises, or reduced cooling.

Review Pool and Backyard Safety

Pools, trampolines, fire pits, grills, and play equipment can increase the risk of injury on your property.

Make sure gates and fences are secure, children are supervised, and pool rules are clearly understood. Grills should be kept a safe distance from the house, deck railings, and anything flammable.

It is also worth reviewing your personal liability coverage and considering an umbrella policy if you have a pool, frequent guests, teenage drivers, or other significant liability exposures.

Prepare for Summer Storms

Before a storm arrives, secure patio furniture, umbrellas, toys, grills, and other loose items that could become damaged or cause damage.

Trim branches that are close to the house, but leave large or hazardous tree work to a qualified professional.

After a storm, inspect the property from the ground. Look for missing shingles, damaged siding, fallen branches, or signs of water entering the home.

Be Careful While Traveling

Avoid posting detailed vacation plans publicly before or during your trip. Ask a trusted neighbor to collect mail and packages, and use timers or smart lighting to make the home appear occupied.

Before leaving, turn off unnecessary water sources and unplug electronics that do not need to remain connected.

Have You Made Changes to Your Home?

Summer is a popular time for renovations, finished basements, sheds, decks, pools, and other improvements.

These changes may affect the replacement cost of your home or create new insurance considerations. Expensive jewelry, electronics, artwork, bicycles, and other recent purchases may also need additional coverage.

A Quick Review Can Make a Difference

Insurance works best when the policy accurately reflects your home, belongings, and current lifestyle.

A short mid-summer review can help identify coverage gaps before a loss occurs. If you have made changes to your home, added a pool, purchased valuable items, or simply have not reviewed your coverage recently, contact Page Insurance.

We are here to help you understand your coverage and make sure your insurance continues to fit your needs.