Taking a winter vacation? Be sure your home or condominium is properly insured before you travel.
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, approximately thirteen percent of homes are empty at any given time in America. Studies also show that, in Florida, the number of vacant homes is significantly higher.
Taking the necessary steps to insure your home has the proper homeowners insurance or condo insurance will help you better protect yourself against the many instances that can go wrong:
- Burglary or theft.
- Roof damage or leaking from heavy rainfall.
- Pest or rodent infestation.
Certain homeowners insurance and condo insurance policies can help you recover from any of these problems should they occur.
However, there are several steps you can take in order to prevent any issues from arising at all.
Before leaving your home for an extended period of time, be sure to follow the steps below:
- Lock all doors and windows.
- Set timed lights, both indoors and outdoors to fend off burglars.
- Set your security alarm.
- If you live in a cold area, don't set your heat down too low. Pipes can freeze if it gets too cold.
- Turn your water off and empty the pipes by running the tap for a while.
- Have a friend pick up your mail, or have it re-directed for the duration of your trip.
- Have a trusted source (family member or close friend) check on your home while you're away.
- Don't leave trash outside/near the property where animals may have access.
- Consider a mobile security app.
While these steps can help you avoid disaster, the most important thing you can do when leaving a home or condominium for an extended period is to speak with your insurance agent about which homeowners insurance and condo insurance options are available to you.
Pettineo Insurance Agency Inc. provides condo insurance in Fort Lauderdale, Lauderdale-By-The-Sea, North Lauderdale, Pompano Beach, Oakland Park, Boca Raton, Deerfield Beach, Hollywood, Sunrise, Coral Springs, Pembroke Pines, Sunrise, Tamarac, Plantation, Lighthouse Point and all of Florida.
