Maintenance Archives ~ The Military Move

Navigating Homeowners Insurance: What You Need to Know

September 14, 2023 No Comments

Homeowners insurance is a crucial financial tool that provides protection for your home and belongings in case of unexpected events. Understanding the key components of homeowners insurance is essential to ensure you have the right coverage for your needs. Here’s what you need to know:

Types of Coverage:

Dwelling Coverage: This covers the structure of your home, including the roof, walls, floors, and foundation. It’s essential to insure your home for its full replacement cost.
Personal Property Coverage: This covers your personal belongings, such as furniture, appliances, clothing, and electronics. Make sure to take inventory and estimate the value of your possessions.
Liability Coverage: This provides protection if someone is injured on your property, and you’re found liable. It also covers damage caused by your pets.
Additional Living Expenses (ALE) Coverage: ALE pays for temporary living expenses if your home becomes uninhabitable due to a covered event, like a fire or natural disaster.

Policy Types:

HO-3 Policy: This is the most common type of homeowners insurance policy and provides comprehensive coverage for your home and personal property. It covers a wide range of perils, except those specifically excluded.
HO-5 Policy: This is an upgraded version of HO-3, offering even broader coverage and fewer limitations.
HO-6 Policy: Designed for condo owners, this policy covers the interior of your unit and personal property.
HO-4 Policy: Known as renters insurance, it covers personal property and liability for renters but doesn’t cover the structure itself.
Coverage Limits: Your policy will have coverage limits for various categories, such as personal property, liability, and ALE. Make sure these limits are sufficient to cover your needs.
Deductibles: The deductible is the amount you pay out of pocket before your insurance kicks in. Choosing a higher deductible can lower your premium but means you’ll pay more if you file a claim.
Exclusions and Endorsements: Understand what perils are excluded from your policy. Common exclusions may include floods, earthquakes, and acts of terrorism. You can purchase additional coverage or endorsements for these excluded events if needed.
Premiums: Your premium is the amount you pay for your homeowners insurance. Factors that influence your premium include your location, the age and condition of your home, your credit score, and the coverage limits you choose.

Discounts: Insurance companies offer discounts for various reasons, such as bundling home and auto insurance, installing security systems, or having a good claims history. Inquire about available discounts to reduce your premium.
Claims Process: Understand how to file a claim with your insurance company. Document damage or loss thoroughly and keep all communication related to the claim. Be prepared to provide receipts, photos, and other evidence.
Review and Update: Periodically review and update your homeowners insurance policy to reflect changes in your home’s value, improvements, or changes in your circumstances.
Shop Around: Compare quotes from different insurance providers to ensure you’re getting the best coverage at the most competitive price. Don’t forget to consider the reputation and customer service of the insurer.
Legal Requirements: While homeowners insurance isn’t legally required in most states, if you have a mortgage, your lender will likely require it. Even if it’s not mandated, having homeowners insurance is highly advisable to protect your investment.
Read the Fine Print: Before purchasing a policy, carefully read and understand the terms and conditions. If you have questions or need clarification, don’t hesitate to ask your insurance agent.

Navigating homeowners insurance can be complex, but it’s a critical aspect of safeguarding your home and financial security. Take the time to assess your needs, compare policies, and make informed decisions to ensure you have the right coverage for your home and belongings.

If you know someone looking to move near a military base – please send them our website below where we provide loads of base information.

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________

If you are looking for a home in Washington – check us out at www.kelseyandjorge.com

Family, Housing, Maintenance

10 Summer Maintenance Tips

July 5, 2023 No Comments

Here are 10 home summer maintenance tips to help you keep your home in good condition all year long:

Check and clean your air conditioning system: Before the hot weather hits, inspect your air conditioning system. Clean or replace the filters, remove any debris around the unit, and consider scheduling a professional tune-up to ensure it’s running efficiently.
Inspect and clean your gutters: Summer can bring occasional rainstorms, so make sure your gutters are clear of debris to prevent water damage. Remove leaves, sticks, and any other obstructions that may be blocking the flow of water. This maintenance tip can also help prevent house fires.
Check and maintain your outdoor plumbing: Inspect outdoor faucets, hoses, and sprinkler systems for leaks or damage. Repair or replace any faulty components to prevent water waste and potential water damage.
Inspect and clean your windows and screens: Remove dust and dirt from your windows and screens. Clean the glass inside and out, and repair or replace any damaged screens to keep bugs out while enjoying fresh air.
Trim trees and shrubs: Overgrown branches near your house can pose a risk during storms or high winds. Trim back any trees or shrubs that are too close to your home to prevent potential damage.

Clean and seal your outdoor deck or patio: Summer is the perfect time to enjoy your outdoor living spaces. Clean your deck or patio thoroughly, and if needed, apply a fresh coat of sealant or stain to protect it from the elements.
Inspect and clean your outdoor grill: If you enjoy outdoor cooking, inspect and clean your grill before the summer season. Check for gas leaks, clean the grates, and make sure all parts are in good working condition.
Check and maintain your pool: If you have a pool, inspect the pool equipment, such as the filter, pump, and skimmer. Clean or replace the filters, check water chemistry levels, and ensure all safety measures, such as fences and gates, are in place and functioning properly.
Inspect and clean your outdoor lighting: Check your outdoor lights, including pathway lights, porch lights, and security lights. Replace any burned-out bulbs, clean fixtures, and ensure the lights are working correctly for safety and ambiance.
Check for pest infestations: Summer can bring unwanted pests into your home. Inspect your home for signs of infestation, such as ants, mosquitoes, or termites. Take appropriate measures to prevent and control pests, such as sealing entry points and using insect repellents.

Remember, safety is paramount when performing maintenance tasks. If you’re unsure about any task or feel uncomfortable doing it yourself, it’s best to hire a professional to ensure the job is done correctly and safely.

Looking to buy or sell a home, or do you just need information on your next PCS location? Check out our PCS Unit Map below.