Common Causes of Home Damage (& How to Prevent Them)

Damage to your home can be catastrophic. Griffith Insurance LLP in West Chester, PA offers homeowners insurance to provide peace of mind and financial protection, but some items that hold sentimental value can never be replaced. Here, we share the most common causes of damage to your home and the steps you can take to prevent loss. 

#1 Wind and Hail

Wind and hail can cause significant damage to your property, interrupting your life while you await repairs. You can’t control the weather, but you can protect yourself. Secure outdoor furniture and yard decor. Make sure your gutters and downspouts are secured and in good condition. Check the caulking around your doors and windows for breakdown and replace when needed. 

#2 Fire

Fire can be especially tragic, destroying sentimental items in the best cases and loss of life in the worst cases. Although fire is perhaps the most devastating loss a homeowner can face, it’s also preventable. 

To reduce your probability of experiencing a house fire, 

  • install smoke alarms on each floor of your home
  • replace batteries every six months
  • replace smoke alarms every ten years
  • keep flammable items and substances away from sources of heat

#3 Water Damage

Frozen pipes, broken pipes, or unnoticed leaks can cause water damage. There’s nothing you can do to guarantee you never suffer water damage, but you can take steps to reduce your risk. Please cover your outside faucets, winterize your home before the first freeze each year, and fix leaks as soon as you notice them. 

To protect your home, contact the Griffith Insurance LLP team in West Chester, PA today. We’re here to help!