How To Make Sure You are Properly Insured

As a realtor, I’ve seen first-hand the importance of having proper insurance coverage for your home. A home is one of the biggest investments you’ll ever make, and it’s crucial to ensure that it’s protected from unforeseen events such as fire, theft, and natural disasters. Cape Cod can be a unique area and zoning laws and a large number of second homes and short-term rentals. My best piece of advice is to work with a local expert.

I talked with Joe McCabe of Ironside Insurance Group recently. Here are some tips we had on how you can make sure your home is properly insured.

1. Understand your coverage options Before purchasing an insurance policy, it’s essential to understand your coverage options. There are different types of policies available, such as homeowner’s insurance, flood insurance, and earthquake insurance. Depending on your home’s location, you may need additional coverage for natural disasters. Do you have proper coverage to use your home for a short-term rental?
2. Review your policy annually It’s important to review your policy annually to ensure that it’s still adequate for your needs. If you’ve made any significant changes to your home, such as adding a new room or upgrading your kitchen, you may need to increase your coverage. Or if the use of your property changes, if you bought that second home for your own use, but have since started to rent it out you will want to make sure the rental exposure is covered
   
3. Know your deductible Your deductible is the amount you’ll need to pay out of pocket before your insurance policy kicks in. Make sure you know what your deductible is and that you have enough savings to cover it in an emergency. Many times on Cape Cod you will have a wind/hail deductible that will be a percentage of your dwelling coverage, make sure you are aware of what this might be.
   
4. Keep an inventory of your belongings In the event of a claim, having an inventory of your belongings can help speed up the process and ensure that you receive adequate compensation. Take photos and keep receipts of your valuables, including electronics, jewelry, and furniture.
5. Consider additional liability coverage Liability coverage can protect you if someone is injured on your property or if you’re sued for damages. Consider adding additional liability coverage to your policy to ensure that you’re adequately protected.

Finally, Work with a local independent insurance agent who can find you coverage with a reputable insurance provider, Not all insurance providers are created equal. Work with a reputable provider who has a proven track record of providing excellent customer service and paying claims promptly.

I like to be a resource to my clients and provide resources and connections to buyers. Please reach out to me to connect you with a local and trusted professional. Ensuring that your home is properly insured is crucial for protecting your investment and providing peace of mind. Take the time to review your coverage options, work with a reputable insurance provider, and keep an inventory of your belongings. By following these tips, you can rest easy knowing that your home is protected in the event of an emergency.