Hundreds of households in Superior and Louisville are still contending with the devastation of the Marshall Fire. If you’re thinking about purchasing a new home, there’s no question that you’ll want to ensure that your property is protected from fire and other natural disasters. A house is the largest asset for most individuals, so triple checking that safeguards are in place will serve you well in the event of the unexpected. Here, we share suggestions about how to protect your home and belongings from fire damage, so you’re as prepared as possible.
Contact Your Insurance Agent
Before you seal the deal on your brand-new home, you’ll need to provide your lender with proof of homeowners’ insurance. If you have an agent that you trust, now is the time to reach out and let them know that you’re starting the process of shopping for a property. During this consultation, your agent will walk you through the process of what you’ll need covered and answer any questions you may have. In addition to protecting the structure (which is required with a mortgage), you may be interested in supplemental coverage to include flood insurance and additional personal property limits.
Video Catalogue Your Belongings
You may not realize how valuable your personal belongings are until you look more closely. If personal items are included in your insurance policy, be sure to take a thorough walkthrough of everything you own. Although it’s important to write down the exact specifications of your valuables (such as brand, model, date purchased and serial number), it’s wise to record the inventory list room by room and back the video up to a secure location. In addition to the video recording, consider making an itemized spreadsheet that includes the nitty gritty details of each item. With the digital receipts of your home inventory, you’ll give yourself the best chance of full coverage in case of tragedy.
Prep Your Home
Although many wildfires start and spread quickly, there are several steps you can take to safeguard your home against fires. Always keep at least one fire extinguisher on hand, and make sure that it’s in good condition. Most fire extinguishers will last 10 years if properly stored. Be sure to follow safety guidelines for cooking and smoking, and have your smoke detectors inspected annually. Smoke alarms should be placed in each room and hallway on every floor within the home. For an additional level of protection, carbon monoxide detectors should be installed in each bedroom of the home. Keeping the yard tidy and free from debris and dead vegetation is also recommended to deter fires.
When you begin the process of searching for your dream home, protecting your new investment from fire is probably the last thing on your mind. However, preparation is key to ensuring that you’re doing everything you can to keep your future property safe from fire devastation. If you’re ready to find a new place to call home, we’d love to have you join the community at Independence. Top-tier home builders in Elizabeth, Colorado, have partnered with us to offer incredible floor plans that are ideal for every age and stage, and we’re excited to show you what we have available. To learn more, please contact our team.