Category: Home Insurance

In 2024 so far, the National Weather Service Kansas City has issued approximately 22 tornado warnings and about 136 severe thunderstorm warnings. Some storms on a smaller scale aren’t doing much beyond minor property damage, like taking down trees and destroying shrubbery. But larger storms, like the ones we saw in March and April featuring 70mph winds and half-dollar-sized hail, have the potential to wreak havoc on properties, cause city-wide power outages, and even oust families from their homes.

If you’ve recently experienced a storm in your area, or even been evacuated due to the looming threat of one, returning home can be a stressful endeavour, especially if your property has been damaged. Here at AHI Group, we can’t stop the damages from occurring, but we can give you some insights into next steps once the storm has passed over.

Safely re-entering your home

The anxiety of not knowing if your home is still standing after a severe storm is a burden many face during such trying times, especially if you were asked to evacuate due to an imminent threat in your area. It’s natural to feel a mixture of hope and fear as you return to assess the aftermath. While you may be eager to see your home and belongings, ensuring your safety and the safety of those with you is the most important thing during this time. Here’s a guide to help you safely re-enter your home following an evacuation due to a severe storm.

Wait for official clearance or permission from authorities

Do not return to your home until local authorities have deemed it safe. Listen to news updates, check local emergency services, and follow their guidance. They will inform you when it is safe to return and if there are any specific hazards to be aware of.

Check the area for hazards

As you approach your home, be alert for potential dangers such as downed power lines, broken gas lines, and unstable structures. Do not enter your property if you observe these hazards. Contact the appropriate utility companies or emergency services if you encounter them.

Assess the exterior of your home

Before entering, walk around the exterior of your home to inspect for visible damage. Look for issues like structural damage, broken windows, or compromised walls. If you notice significant damage, it may not be safe to enter. In such cases, consult a professional before proceeding.

Enter with caution

If the exterior appears stable, enter your home cautiously. Use a flashlight if power is out, and do not use open flames or lighters due to potential gas leaks. Be mindful of debris, slippery floors, and other hazards inside.

Check for structural integrity

Once inside, assess the structural integrity of your home. Look for cracks in the walls or ceilings, sagging floors, or other signs of instability. If you notice any of these issues, leave the premises immediately and contact a structural engineer or your local building department.

Inspect your utilities

Check for any signs of damage to your utilities. Smell for gas leaks, and if you suspect a leak, leave immediately and call the gas company. If you see damaged electrical wiring or water damage near electrical outlets, do not touch them and contact a professional. Turn off your main power and water supply if you know how and can do so safely.

Document all damages

Take photographs or videos of any damage for insurance purposes. Documenting the condition of your home can help with filing insurance claims and provide a record of the extent of the damage.

Initiate the clean-up process

If it is safe to do so, start the clean-up process. Wear protective gear such as gloves, masks, and sturdy shoes. Be cautious of mold, contaminated water, and other potential health hazards. Dispose of spoiled food and clean all surfaces that may have been contaminated by floodwaters or debris.

Notify your insurance company

Notify your insurance company as soon as possible to start the claims process. Provide them with the documentation of the damage and any necessary information. They can guide you through the next steps and help arrange for professional assessments and repairs.

Hire a professional

For significant damage or safety concerns, seek the help of professionals. Contractors, electricians, plumbers, and other specialists can safely assess and repair your home. Do not attempt to make major repairs yourself unless you are qualified to do so.

Look into state resources

Tornadoes can occur in any state, and in the states where they tend to be most common many governments have stepped up to provide resources or safety guides to their citizens. For example:

• Tornado Safety for Citizens of Kansas
• Tornado Preparedness for Alabama
• Tornadoes: Ready Ilinois

These are just a few samples of the resources that may be available. Check out these guides to see if they offer any specific information based on your state, or if they contain any information pertaining to any relief programs you may be eligible for in addition to your existing insurance policy.

Filing a claim with your insurance company

Home insurance covers homeowners for damages due to unexpected or inclement weather, like tornadoes and storms. Unless these events are specifically excluded from coverage, you can expect to have some protection under your home insurance policy to help rebuild your home. Even named perils policies will generally include storms.

However, coverage limits may vary. While you won’t be able to update anything after a loss, it’s a good idea to review your policy regularly to ensure you have sufficient protection for these kinds of events.

Filing a claim is relatively straightforward. Our advice? Do it as soon as possible. Once you’ve ensured everyone is safe, call your insurance company. Events like these will mean a lot of people will be calling in for claims, so get in as soon as you can to get your claim started and settled. Once your claim process has started, an adjuster will be assigned to your case who can help you through and answer any questions you might have during this time.

Kansas’s 2024 tornado season is the most active on record. As many in the Midwest are still recovering from the start of the season, we turn to insurance to recoup our losses. In times like these, it’s good to know we’re covered for the unexpected!

If you’ve never filed an insurance claim before, you may be wondering just how to do so. Remember that you can always contact an AHI representative for support; otherwise, check out our step-by-step guide below for more information.

Am I covered for storms and tornado damage?

Most standard home insurance policies will cover storms and tornado damage, however, you likely won’t be able to acquire protection if you’re trying to buy insurance during an active storm watch. Our advice? Get insurance as soon as you close on a home so you won’t run into issues where severe storms are in the forecast and you’re without insurance.

May 2024 had the fourth-highest number of tornadoes on record in the Midwest, with 476 tornadoes recovered by the National Weather Service’s Storm Prediction Center. April and May combined had the second most tornadoes on record, just behind 2011 where an EF-5 tornado hit Joplin, causing $2.8 billion in damages and claiming over 150 lives.

As the issue worsens, it’s more important than ever to have protection. Contact an insurance agent at AHI Group to ensure you have the coverage you need against storms and tornadoes.

What happens if you’ve been impacted by severe weather?

With severe weather, you never know what could happen–your home could suffer a couple of broken windows, or it could be destroyed entirely. If you have home insurance, your coverage will help pay for the losses (minus your deductible), but you’d need to file a claim, which tends to come with its fair bit of work. Not to worry! We’re here to let you know what to do.

We never expect it’ll happen to us until it does. Part of being a good homeowner is being prepared with the right insurance, plus equipping yourself with the knowledge of what to do after the fact to recoup your losses. Here is our step-by-step process for filing a claim for storm losses:

Step 1: Get in touch with your insurance provider

Once you’re aware of storm damage, it’s time to get in touch with your insurance provider. You can also reach out to your agent for guidance. Most insurance providers have a 24/7 claims hotline you can contact, but keep in mind that during episodes of severe weather, plenty of homes will be calling in, so they’ll usually answer on a first-come, first-served basis.

After you’ve reached out to your provider they will schedule an adjuster to come out to the scene to investigate and inspect the scale of damages done. During this time, they will determine if you have an eligible claim. You may also have a claims representative assigned to your case, who you can contact at any point for information on your claim. This isn’t always the case with these widespread incidents.

Step 2: Let your provider know of any emergency repairs that are needed

If your home requires repairs immediately that may render your property unlivable or are considered an “emergency,” you may need to let your insurance provider know. They will be able to get you in touch with a company that can complete these repairs right away to prevent the risk of further damage.

If your home cannot be re-entered and you are forced to find temporary accommodations elsewhere, keep all receipts on-hand for any additional, much-needed living expenses. This includes takeout, hotel bills, receipts for new clothes, childcare, etc. You may be able to get these reimbursed later through a portion of your home insurance known as additional living expenses.

Step 3: Discuss damages with your adjuster

Once the process of “review” has been complete and the company’s adjuster has checked out the property and done a thorough assessment, they’ll go over the damages and give you an estimate for what it will take to repair your home. They may also provide this assessment to whoever is being hired to do the repairs to your home (usually a preferred contractor).

Step 4: Get a contractor locked-in to do the repairs

Many insurance companies have preferred contractors that they will want to do the repairs to your home. This is usually because these companies are trusted or have completed work for the insurer before. You are allowed to vouch for a specific contractor if you want. If this is the route you wish to take, ensure that the contractor is licensed and has the necessary policies in place to perform your repairs.

Note that an insurance company’s preferred contractor may also have a warranty on work through both the contractor and the insurance company, which can give you a little more peace-of-mind.

Step 5: Confirm, sign, and begin repairs

Once you receive your estimate, make sure to get it reviewed and confirmed by a professional. This is usually whoever was hired on to do the repairs or another third-party. You should also ensure any changes to your home are considered and agreed in your contract. Once everything looks good, you can sign and repairs can begin.

You have between 12 and 24 months to file a claim after a storm loss, but it’s advised you get in as soon as possible. If it’s a larger storm or event, chances are that there’s a huge backlog of homeowners awaiting their own claims, too. The sooner you’re in, the sooner your repairs get done. Note you’ll be responsible for your deductible as well, which you’ll need to pay towards the repairs before your insurance provider pays the remaining amount!

Questions? Give us a call here at AHI Group. We’d be happy to go over a recent claim or discuss your insurance coverage in the midst of this severe storm season.

A roof is one of the most critical components of your home, protecting everything beneath it from the elements. Its importance cannot be overstated, yet many homeowners are often uncertain about their insurance coverage concerning roof replacement.

Understanding when your home insurance will cover roof replacement is essential for maintaining peace of mind, plus knowing what you’re covered for is a boon that cannot be understated.

When does insurance cover roof replacement?

Home insurance can be a lifesaver when it comes to unexpected damage. However, coverage for roof replacement depends on various factors, including the cause of the damage and the specifics of your policy. See, home insurance is inherently meant for one (or two, technically) kind(s) of damage: unpredictable and sudden. Below are some of the scenarios where insurance may come in handy in protecting you against the cost of roof replacement:

Yes: Situations where your insurance may cover roof replacement

Storm Damage

Your insurance typically covers the replacement if a severe hailstorm damages your roof. Hail pockmarks, missing shingles, holes, etc., all caused by a sudden hailstorm, are generally covered under most standard home insurance policies. The same goes for windstorms; if high winds damage your roof, the repairs or ultimate replacement are covered by insurance.

Wildfire or residential fire

Any accidental fire, whether wildfire or residential, causing roof damage is generally covered under most standard home insurance policies.

Vandalism

If deliberate damage is caused to your roof during a break-in attempt or simply due to vandalism, your insurance will usually cover the cost to repair or replace your roof.

No: Situations where your insurance will not cover roof replacement

Wear and tear

Your insurance is designed for sudden incidents, not predictable wear-and-tear over the years. A roof that has reached the end of its useful life due to age will not be covered by insurance for replacement. Maintenance and regular upkeep are the homeowner’s responsibility. Neglect falls under this umbrella as well. Failure to maintain the roof, resulting in gradual deterioration, is not covered by insurance.

Manufacturer defects

If the roof fails due to defective materials or poor installation, the insurance will not cover the replacement. This is typically a matter of the manufacturer’s or installer’s warranty.

Preventable damages

Damage caused by pests such as termites is considered preventable with regular maintenance and is usually not covered by insurance.

What insurance is meant for: Explaining “unexpected and accidental” in insurance terms

Home insurance is designed to protect homeowners from sudden, unexpected, and accidental events. This fundamental principle explains why certain types of roof damage are covered while others are not.

For example, a lack of maintenance resulting in gradual losses is not covered by insurance because the homeowner is expected to do their due diligence and look after the property. The homeowner is expected to conduct regular maintenance to prevent damage. This includes cleaning gutters, replacing damaged shingles, and inspecting the roof periodically. Having professional roof inspections can help identify and fix small issues before they become significant problems.

Weathering and incremental damages are also not covered by insurance because they are predictable. Over time, roofs naturally deteriorate due to exposure to the elements. This gradual loss will not be covered by insurance, so a much-needed replacement due to aging and wear will be on you. Check with your insurance provider to see at what age they recommend your roof to be replaced, as the age of your roof can impact your insurance rates.

Understanding these distinctions can help you better manage your home maintenance and know when you can rely on your insurance policy. Being proactive with roof care will save you from unexpected expenses and ensure your home remains protected.

Taking care of your roof

As we’ve established, part of being a good homeowner—and ensuring any damages to your roof are covered—comes with looking after your roof. If you’re a first-time homeowner, you may not be aware of what goes into looking after a roof! Here are some essential tips:

• Conduct regular inspections: Inspect your roof at least twice a year, in the spring and fall, to spot any visible damage, such as missing shingles or tiles. Schedule a professional roof inspection every few years to identify and address issues that may not be visible from the ground.
• Clean your gutters and check downspouts: Regularly clean your gutters to prevent water buildup, which can cause leaks and water damage to your roof and home’s foundation. Ensure that downspouts are clear and direct water away from your home.
• Trim and clear away overhanging branches: Trim any tree branches that hang over your roof to prevent them from falling and causing damage during storms. Keeping branches trimmed also reduces the amount of leaves and twigs that can accumulate on your roof and in your gutters.
• Repair damage promptly: Address any leaks as soon as they are detected to prevent further water damage and mold growth. Promptly replace any missing, cracked, or damaged shingles to maintain the integrity of your roof.
• Prepare for weather shifts accordingly. Spring melt can be damaging to your roof, especially if you allow debris and gunk to clog up your eavestroughs and gutters. Prepare accordingly.

Have additional questions about roof replacement and your insurance? Uncertain about what’s covered? We’ve got you. Give us a call here at AHI.

Extreme weather events in the United States are making it difficult to insure homes in certain areas. In some situations, it’s preventing homeowners from paying for the insurance protection they so desperately need; with flood risk, that’s becoming an increasing issue.

What is “floodplain mapping” and how does it impact your insurance rates? Let’s explore how the increase in flood frequency and severity may be affecting the cost of your insurance as well as your home’s overall insurability.

What is floodplain mapping?

Floods can occur virtually anywhere in the United States. Even if your home isn’t a waterfront property or is located within proximity of a body of water, heavy rains, construction projects, and poor drainage can put your property at risk of damage due to flood.

A tool that communities can use to assess their risk of flooding is a flood map. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) maintains and consistently updates data through risk assessments and existing floodplain zones or flood maps.

Floodplain maps don’t coincide with property limits and city limits but rather are grouped by risk areas, and you can use flood maps to determine the relationship between your property and existing areas with a high risk of flooding. There is no “no-risk” areas, as all regions can experience flooding.

How does floodplain mapping influence my insurance rates?

Flood maps may actually be used by mortgage lenders when gauging insurance requirements. As mortgage lenders will want to protect their investments, they may increase or decrease coverage requirements based on the level of risk.

More coverage means higher premiums. For homeowners located in these higher-risk areas, mortgage lenders may require them to carry higher levels of coverage, thereby costing them more in premiums.

Data regarding flood risk can also influence the decision of underwriters as to whether to increase insurance premiums for a certain area or not. For example, in early 2023 alone, premiums in Texas rose by up to 16% for homeowners due to the risk of flooding in Austin being higher than initially anticipated.

Insurance companies will raise rates based on the probability of risk as demonstrated by flood maps to offset the potential for a loss. Floods can be especially devastating to insurance companies as they tend to impact homes across a larger area than individual events, like residential fires or break-ins.

In summary? If you live in an area at a higher risk of flooding, you’re likely to pay more for your home insurance. Worse, some insurance providers are removing certain coverages for areas more exposed to reduce the risk for themselves.

Could my home’s flood risk impact its insurability?

Yes. If your insurance rates rise as a result of an increase in your flood risk, you could find it too expensive to continue paying for certain coverages. Some insurers are also pulling back from certain areas or entire states altogether, meaning homeowners will need to look elsewhere and potentially purchase more expensive policies to maintain coverage on their homes.

Back in 2023, State Farm, which is one of the biggest insurance providers in the United States, announced that it would no longer be selling new home insurance policies in California. This decision was based on, to quote, “historic increases in construction costs outpacing inflation, rapidly growing catastrophe exposure, and a challenging reinsurance market.” Following suit, Farmers Insurance discontinued offering home insurance in the state of Florida alongside a dozen other providers who had long-since left.

For many insurance companies, the more sensible thing is simply to withdraw from high-risk markets. Unfortunately, what that ends up meaning is that vulnerable populations may be disproportionately impacted with far higher rates than they can manage, forcing them to forgo critical coverage.

What can we do?

It’s a tough situation, unfortunately. Homeowners at the highest risk of flooding may find themselves in difficult situations where purchasing insurance for flooding is too expensive, or they may find it difficult to obtain insurance altogether due to numerous providers pulling out of offering coverage in their area.

Some states are offering special “state insurance.” California has its own program called the FAIR Plan,m which is designed to insure properties located in areas that are at higher risk and may not be eligible for insurance otherwise. Some states are also allowing insurance companies to take climate change into account when determining insurance premiums, but this can cause even higher insurance rates.

Despite increases in insurance rates, we advise avoiding missing payments as much as possible. Being cancelled due to non-payment can raise your rates significantly the next time you go to get insured again, sometimes even vaulting you into the high-risk market where you could be paying two or three times as much as you were previously. If you are worried about missing an upcoming payment, discuss options with your provider or agent.

You can combat insurance price increases by investing in mitigation devices. Some insurance companies will discount your insurance if you purchase water alarms or monitoring devices, backup valves, and similar devices. Ask your agent about which devices qualify and if your provider offers discounted insurance for their installation.

Finally, work with an insurance agent! An agent can help find you more affordable insurance, regardless of where you live. AHI Group is licensed in numerous states and can help find you the coverage you need.

A lot of your home’s features will influence the amount you’ll pay for your home insurance, from its location and ZIP code to when it was made and its construction materials. But did you know that, of these features, your roof is one of the biggest factors? After all, it’s the first line of defense against the elements.

The newer the roof, the better your insurance rates. But there’s more to it than that. Let’s get into it.

Why is roof age a factor in home insurance rates?

Simply put, a newer roof has a likelier chance to hold up against the elements and can have unforeseen issues that can cause deterioration and later snowball into worse problems. As it is with the same way with car insurance, the “safer” something is, the less you’re paying for your auto insurance. Since roofs can be the first line of defense that your home has against things like fire, wind, hail, and rain, they’ll be more important from an insurance perspective when it comes to preventing huge claim payouts.

Roofs 20 years and older may even need to be inspected before an insurance company will offer coverage. This typically means that they’ll send out a team of professionals to check out your property and assess your roof’s “readiness” to handle unexpected issues. Other insurance companies will agree to cover your roof’s actual cash value if it’s a bit older, meaning that they’ll only cover what it’s worth now minus depreciation. And some insurance companies? They’ll just refuse to cover homes with roofs 20+ altogether, as the risk that older roofs pose might just be too great.

Shape of roof

The shape of your roof can affect your costs just as much as the age, but the shape that will save you money is dependent on the environment where you live. If you live in an area that sees a lot of wind or even hurricanes, a hip-style roof is best.

Flat roofs overall are more expensive to insure since they collect water easier and can accumulate damage with time. They also have a shorter lifespan than other roof styles.

Roof materials

Your insurer will also take into account the type of roof material your home has, as some materials can withstand the impact of nature better than others. Some roof materials are also better in certain environments – for example, wood shingles may not be priced favorably in areas prone to fire.

Asphalt shingles are generally an all-around decent choice, as they are easy to install over top of existing roofs. They are, however, slightly more susceptible to decay.

Slate can be a good option for areas that frequently experience high winds and are relatively low maintenance. They are expensive to install and can be more susceptible to impact damage, like from hail. Their high replacement cost can also mean higher premiums.

Metal is another (increasingly more popular) option. It’s durable, fire-resistant, and reflects sunlight, but it also dents easily from impact and has a high replacement cost.

Wood shingles are not a great idea for areas prone to wildfire as some insurance companies will refuse to insure homes with wood shingle roofs, but they are more affordable. Some people always enjoy the cosmetic appeal of them. Yet, on average, wooden roofs cost about $100-$200/year more than any other roof material to insure each year due to their fire risk.

Will renovating my older roof lower my home insurance costs?

In theory, yes. Installing a new roof when your previous roof was 10–20+ years old can save you up to 35% on your homeowners insurance premiums, but discounts will vary depending on the type of roof that was installed (shape and materials). Some roofs are considered “impact-resistant” or have wind mitigation properties, which can qualify you for additional discounts.

Roof replacements themselves can be costly, however. Net savings are not guaranteed, and it’s wise to talk with your agent about how much you’d save by renovating your roof versus keeping the old roof and continuing with your current insurance rates.

Note as well that if you need a new roof due to a disaster, like an unexpected fire, and you replace your roof, it’s possible that your replacement could even increase your rates. This depends on the age and condition of your roof prior to the event.

Is roof replacement covered by my home insurance?

It depends on why your roof needs replacement. A typical replacement over lack of maintenance or because the roof has simply aged out won’t be covered by your home insurance, since home insurance is designed only for unexpected or sudden incidents. For example:

What is covered by home insurance	What isn’t covered by home insurance
Falling objects, explosions, and other accidents	Poor maintenance
Nature damage, like fire, storms, hail, etc.	Non-functional repairs (cosmetic)
Roofs under 10 years old (full replacement)	Older roofs, usually 10 or 20+ years (*)

*Note that while some companies just won’t cover homes with older roofs, some companies will only cover them for their ACV, and some companies will insure them but only once an inspection has been complete.

If your insurance company says you’ll qualify for a discount upon replacing your roof, that doesn’t mean your roof replacement will be covered. You will, however, get a discount upon doing so as a thank you for prioritizing the safety of your home.

Have further questions about roof replacement and your home? Have you recently renovated your roof in the last 10 years or so? Let us know! We’ll be happy to go over the benefits with you and may be able to help you find eligible discounts and other home insurance savings opportunities, which can save you hundreds of dollars on your insurance each year.

According to the Insurance Journal.com, homeowners are finding it more and more difficult to afford insurance on their homes as climate change creates an environment where the yearly cost and frequency of claims is increasing with no end in sight.

In short, climate change-induced weather changes, i.e., the increase in the severity and frequency of storms, wildfires, flooding, and other events, cause insurance companies to pay out more for claims, meaning they need to increase their home insurance premiums to offset the losses. This means that homeowners everywhere pay more for their insurance, even if they themselves have not faced a loss. Let’s explore how that works in further detail.

Assessing risk: Climate change’s influence on underwriting

An increase in severe weather, regardless of how it’s caused, may not directly impact all homeowners. They can impact a specific geographic area or even a city, but the impacts increase the overall “risk profile” for insurers. A risk profile is essentially the likelihood of making a claim; a lot of different things influence your risk profile, but your geographic area and its exposure to damaging events (like fires, storms, flooding, and so on). Other things can affect your risk profile too, like the age of your home, whether or not you’ve updated your roof in the last decade, your insurance history, and so on.

The frequency and severity of weather events can mean that insurance companies insuring the properties where those events have occurred face higher probabilities of having to pay out claims. This prompts them to adjust premiums accordingly. Keep in mind that this can happen on a small scale to a certain geographic area and on a much larger scale, impacting cities or even entire states.

The rising cost of re-insurance

Did you know that insurance companies need insurance too? Reinsurance serves as insurance to help insurance companies protect themselves if there’s a particularly large or sudden loss that their existing pool of payout money can’t cover. Reinsurers are having to pay more claims with rising climate-related disaster frequency and severity, therefore having to increase their insurance costs for primary insurers. Insurance companies may offset these rising costs by passing them on to homeowners through higher premiums as well.

Expanded risk zones and reassessment of property values

With the changing climate, previously considered low-risk areas may now be prone to flooding, wildfires, or other hazards. As a result, insurers are reevaluating risk zones and adjusting premiums accordingly. Homes located in areas now deemed higher risk may experience significant premium hikes, regardless of individual homeowners’ claims histories. This is true of all properties – cottage, seasonal property, and condo insurance rates may be impacted as well.

Sustainability concerns over the long-term

With climate change projections indicating continued increases in extreme weather events, insurers must ensure that their business models remain viable in the face of mounting losses. This may involve restructuring policies, increasing premiums, or even withdrawing coverage from the most vulnerable areas. All insurance companies refuse the right to write new business, so if you have purchased a new home in a wildfire zone, your chances of getting insurance may be much more limited.

Industry standards and regulatory pressures

As the climate change phenomenon evolves, government regulators and industry bodies are putting increasing pressure on insurers’ responses. This can manifest as stricter regulations, requirements for increased reserves, and mandates for companies to disclose their exposure to climate-related risks. Compliance with these standards may necessitate adjustments to premiums, impacting homeowners across the board.

Coverage gaps in your home insurance could cause financial vulnerabilities

Coverage gaps, usually as a result of failing to address shifts in home value over time or after renovations/upgrades, can leave homeowners vulnerable to unexpected expenses. This is even greater of an issue during a period where climate-related losses are so rampant, since insured homeowners may not get back the full value of what it would take to rebuild their home in the event of an unexpected loss.

In the absence of adequate coverage, homeowners could struggle to recover financially from a loss, potentially resulting in debt or financial hardship. Coverage gaps could also mean homeowners are exposed to risks that they might not anticipate.

Mortage lenders typically require homeowners to maintain adequate insurance coverage (even if home insurance isn’t required by their state), and it’s not unlikely that restrictions and regulations will continue to increase as we experience more and more severe weather. Coverage gaps can result in non-compliance with lenders in this case, so we advise working with an insurance agent to review your policy and ensure everything is up to snuff – both in terms of covering your asset and complying with any regulations you may be faced with.

Concerned? Call us

Climate change has had a multifaceted influence on the cost of home insurance for homeowners, even those who haven’t directly experienced a loss. This increase can be confusing, frustrating, and downright distressing for some people, especially with the cost of living so expensive as is.

If you’re confused about a recent increase in your home insurance costs, call us. We’d be happy to go over your policy, discuss home insurance savings opportunities, and provide our expert insight. Give us a call today or request a quote.

As the snow begins to melt and the first signs of spring start to emerge, it’s crucial for homeowners to prepare their properties for the changing seasons.

This period, while often welcomed for its warmer temperatures and renewed outdoor life, also poses unique challenges to your home’s integrity. The annual spring melt can lead to potential water damage, foundation issues, and other costly problems if not properly managed. AHI Group understands the importance of safeguarding your home against seasonal risks, not only for the sake of preserving your investment but also for avoiding future impacts on your home insurance premiums.

Our top tips for protecting homes against spring melt

The transition from winter to spring can bring about an array of challenges, including water damage and structural issues. To ensure your home remains safe and intact during this period, we’ve compiled a list of top tips for effectively protecting your property. These strategies are designed to prevent the common pitfalls associated with the thawing process, helping you avoid unnecessary repairs and insurance claims. Let’s dive into these preventative measures to keep your home in pristine condition.

Clean gutters and downspouts

Ensuring your home’s gutters and downspouts are clear of debris is essential for proper water flow away from your property. Blocked gutters can lead to water overflow, causing damage to your roof, siding, and foundation. Regular cleaning before and during the spring melt can prevent these issues.

Inspect and repair roof damage

Winter weather can be harsh on your roof. Come spring, inspect your roof for any signs of damage such as missing shingles or leaks. Early repairs can prevent water from entering your home, safeguarding against structural damage and mold growth.

If you didn’t already know, recent roof updates – even within the last 10 years – can impact your insurance rates, potentially qualifying you for lower premiums. If you’ve modified or updated your roof within the last decade, give us a call.

Grade your lawn away from your home

Water pooling around your foundation can lead to significant issues. Ensure the ground slopes away from your house, facilitating water runoff to prevent foundation damage. This may involve regrading your lawn or adding soil to certain areas.

Install a sump pump

A sump pump can be a homeowner’s best defense against basement flooding during the spring thaw. If you already have one, test it to ensure it’s in working order. Installing a battery backup is also advisable in case of power outages.

Extend your downspouts away from your home’s foundation

Downspouts should extend at least 5 feet away from your home’s foundation. This helps direct melting snow and rainwater away from your property, preventing water intrusion and protecting your foundation.

Seal gaps and cracks in the foundation of your home

Inspect your home’s foundation for any gaps or cracks. These can be entry points for water, leading to leaks and moisture problems inside your home. Sealing these openings can significantly reduce the risk of water damage.

Insulate your pipes

Freezing temperatures can cause pipes to burst, leading to water damage. Insulating your pipes, especially those in unheated areas like basements and attics, can prevent them from freezing as the temperatures fluctuate during the spring thaw.

Create a clear path for snowmelt

Strategically shovel snow away from your home’s foundation while it’s still winter. Creating paths for snowmelt to flow away from your property can prevent water accumulation and potential damage to your foundation and basement.

How do spring melt insurance claims affect your premiums?

Water damage and foundation damage resulting from the spring melt are among the most common and costly claims homeowners face. When an insurance company receives these claims, it often indicates a higher risk of future claims, which can directly impact your insurance premiums. The rationale behind this is rooted in the way insurance companies calculate risk and determine premium rates. Each insurance company has its own database and statistics for how insurance premiums are gauged.

If a home has a history of water or foundation damage, insurers perceive it as more likely to encounter similar issues in the future. This perceived increase in risk often results in higher premiums for the homeowner, as the insurance company aims to offset the potential cost of future claims. This offset may be greater the more claims you file or even if the few claims you do file are severe in nature.

By taking proactive measures to protect your property, you can minimize the likelihood of damage and the need to file a claim. This can help keep your insurance record clean, which is beneficial for keeping your insurance costs low over time.

Have any questions about protecting your home against spring melt? Report a claim, or ask us about our advice on what to do about recent damages? Recently updated your roof? Give us a call here at AHI Group and we’d be happy to help you.