Snowbirds know the feeling of excitement that comes with taking the plunge and moving south for the winter. Whether you’re a snowbird for only a few months or you make the move every year, it’s important to plan ahead and make sure that your home and belongings are properly protected while you’re away.
For snowbirds, it’s essential to connect with your insurance broker to ensure that your home and possessions are covered. An insurance broker’s expertise and advice can help you find the right policy and coverage to meet your needs and give you peace of mind while you’re away. In this blog post, we’ll be taking a look at the top 5 ways snowbirds can protect their home while they’re away, and why it’s important to speak with your insurance broker.
1. Arrange for property check-ins
Even if you’re gone for only a few days, it’s a good idea to arrange for regular property check-ins. Ask a trusted friend, relative, or neighbor to stop by regularly and check the property’s condition. Be sure to provide them with a key or code to enter the property, if needed. Check-ins will help to alert you to any problems that may have occurred while you’re away. In addition, check-ins will help to deter any potential thieves.
2. Increase security system
Increasing security systems should be a top priority for snowbirds. Installing an alarm system with automated sensors, cameras, and locks can help protect your home while you are away. Make sure to speak with your insurance broker about what type of system best fits your needs. Additionally, if you plan to be away for an extended period, consider scheduling regular visits with a security company to check for any issues. Having a reliable security system in place can give you peace of mind that your home is secure while you are away.
3. Winterize Your Home
One of the most important ways to protect your home while away is to winterize it. This means taking steps to prevent ice dams, frozen pipes, and other damage that can be caused by cold weather. Start by insulating your home, installing storm windows and doors, and sealing any gaps or cracks in the exterior walls. Check that your furnace and water heater are in good working order and replace any aging HVAC components. Make sure your gutters are clean and free of debris, and consider installing a roof heating system to prevent snow and ice buildup. Finally, ask your insurance broker about any additional coverage that you may need for winter storms.
4. Review insurance coverage
Once you have your list of risks, it’s time to review your insurance coverage. You’ll want to make sure that you’re covered for the risks you’ve identified. Speak with your insurance broker to see if your existing policy covers any of these risks. If not, you’ll need to consider purchasing additional coverage, like an umbrella policy, to make sure your home is protected while you’re away. Your insurance broker can help you find the best coverage for your needs and make sure you’re not paying for coverage you don’t need.
5. Use Automation When You Can
Automation can be a snowbird’s best friend. With automatic bill pay, you can make sure your bills are paid on time while you’re away from home. You can also set up automatic payments for your homeowners insurance so you don’t have to worry about forgetting to pay your bill. Automation can also help you keep track of your home remotely, such as setting up security cameras or a smart thermostat. Automation can make sure your home is running smoothly, even when you’re away.
In conclusion, snowbirds need to make sure they are fully prepared for the risks they face while away from their home. Taking the time to speak with your insurance broker and developing a plan that suits your needs will help to ensure that you are fully protected while away. With the right coverage, you can rest assured that your home and possessions will be safe while you are away. Contact us today to discuss your coverage, before you head south.