Thanksgiving is almost here, and most of us travel to see family and friends. But before you finish packing your turkey day outfits and your travel sized shower accessories, make sure your home is safe and protected. From the right insurance coverage to easy safety precautions, here’s how to keep your home safe and enjoy a worry-free holiday season.
Check Your Home Insurance Policy
Start by reviewing your home insurance policy. Make sure it covers things like theft, vandalism, and damage from natural events like storms or fires that could happen while you are away. And if you have valuable items, take note of them—this will help if you ever need to make a claim. Keep in mind, though, that every policy is a little different.
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Add Coverage for Personal Belongings and Theft
Some policies have limits on what is covered for your valuable personal belongings. Personal property coverage protects your belongings—like electronics, furniture, and jewelry—if they’re stolen or damaged. This small addition can help cover the cost of replacing these items, giving you peace of mind while you’re away.
Steps to Secure Your Home for Holiday Travel
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Protect Your Valuables
Store important documents, jewelry and sentimental items in a fire-proof safe or a safe deposit box. Move any expensive items out of sight, away from windows, to keep them safe from prying eyes. -
Unplug Electronics
Disconnect electronics like computers, TVs, and appliances. This protects them from power surges, unexpected sparks and helps save energy. -
Do a Thorough Home Inspection
Before you leave, do a final walk-through to check for fire risks, ensure everything is in its place, and shut off your water heater if needed. -
Secure Against Pests
Seal any cracks, cover trash cans, and remove potential food sources to deter pests from seeking shelter in your home while you’re away. We all know South Carolina is famous for the Palmetto Bug! -
Deter Burglars
Test outdoor lights and floodlights, ensuring they’re working to increase visibility around your home. You might also use timers for indoor lights to give the impression of someone’s home.
Our expert team at Papay Insurance can help you navigate any questions you have about your homeowners insurance needs. Get a quote today.
Loss of Use Coverage
Loss of Use coverage helps cover additional living expenses if your home is damaged by a covered peril, making it uninhabitable. This includes costs for temporary housing, meals, and other necessary expenses until your home is livable again. Before you travel, it’s a good idea to check your policy’s terms on personal property limits to understand what’s covered and what’s not, avoiding any surprises. This way, you can travel confidently, knowing you’re prepared for the unexpected.
Enjoy the Holidays With Peace of Mind With Papay Insurance
Taking these steps can make all the difference in protecting your home while you’re away. With the right insurance coverage and a few safety precautions, you’ll be free to focus on what matters most this season: quality time with family and friends.
We at Papay Insurance wish you and yours Safe travels and Happy Thanksgiving!
