September in Connecticut brings cooler evenings, changing leaves, and the unofficial start of fall. But it can also bring unpredictable weather.
Heavy rain, strong winds, falling branches, and late-season tropical systems can all create problems for Connecticut homeowners. September is a good time to take a walk around your property, tackle a few preventative maintenance tasks, and understand how your homeowners insurance may respond if severe weather causes damage.
Start With the Trees Around Your Home
Mature trees are part of what makes Connecticut so beautiful in the fall, but damaged or weakened branches can become a hazard during high winds.
Look for dead branches, limbs hanging over your roof or driveway, and trees that appear damaged or unstable. When necessary, have a qualified tree professional evaluate them.
Don’t forget to look around detached garages, sheds, fences, and other structures on your property, too.
Clear Your Gutters and Check Your Drainage
September is only the beginning of leaf season, making it a good time to check your gutters and downspouts before they become packed with debris.
Clogged gutters can prevent water from draining properly and may contribute to water problems around your roof, siding, or foundation.
Make sure downspouts are also directing water away from your home’s foundation.
Secure What’s Outside
Patio furniture, umbrellas, grills, planters, children’s toys, and other outdoor items can become hazards when the wind picks up.
Before a storm arrives, secure or move loose outdoor belongings to a protected area. If you have a shed or detached structure, check that doors, windows, and roofing materials are in good condition.
Take a Look at Your Roof
You don’t have to climb onto your roof to spot potential trouble.
From the ground, look for missing or damaged shingles, loose materials, sagging areas, or other visible signs of wear. If something doesn’t look right, consider having your roof professionally inspected.
Addressing a maintenance issue before a major storm arrives may help prevent more extensive damage later.
Know Where Your Important Documents Are
If you needed to file an insurance claim tomorrow, would you have easy access to your policy information and a record of your belongings?
Keep important insurance information somewhere you can access it quickly. It’s also a good idea to maintain a home inventory with photos or videos of your belongings.
Your inventory doesn’t need to be complicated. Walk through each room with your phone and record furniture, electronics, appliances, valuables, and other significant possessions. Store a copy somewhere you can access even if your home or devices are damaged.
What Does Homeowners Insurance Cover After a Storm?
The answer depends on your individual policy and what caused the damage.
Homeowners insurance may provide coverage for certain types of storm-related damage, but policies have limitations, exclusions, and deductibles. Flooding is particularly important to understand because standard homeowners insurance generally does not provide coverage for flood damage.
Instead of waiting until after a storm to find out what’s included, review your policy with your insurance agent and ask questions about anything you don’t understand.
Don’t Forget About Your Vehicles
Your home isn’t the only property exposed during severe weather.
Falling branches, hail, windblown debris, and flooding can also damage vehicles. Depending on your auto policy, comprehensive coverage may help with certain types of weather-related vehicle damage.
Reviewing your auto insurance along with your homeowners policy can help you better understand how your property is protected before severe weather arrives.
Make September Your Insurance Check-In
You can’t control Connecticut’s weather, but you can prepare for it.
A little maintenance around your property, an updated home inventory, and a better understanding of your insurance can make a big difference when the forecast takes a turn.
Eastern Insurance Associates is a locally owned and operated independent insurance agency serving individuals, families, and businesses throughout Connecticut. Our agents can help you review your home and auto insurance, answer your coverage questions, and explore options from multiple insurance carriers.
Have questions about your insurance before fall storm season? Contact Eastern Insurance Associates at 860-456-1996 to speak with a local agent.
The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute insurance advice. Coverage is subject to the terms, conditions, limitations, deductibles, and exclusions of the applicable policy. Speak with a licensed insurance agent regarding your specific coverage needs.