Laurie Marinelli, Personal Insurance Manager, CPCU, CIC, AAI, AIS

Many consumers have faced rapidly escalating insurance premiums on their homeowners insurance during the past few years. In some cases, consumers have experienced difficulty in procuring homeowners insurance, particularly people with several claims. However, consumers can take numerous measures to lessen the possibility of future losses, resulting in more readily available insurance down the road and more affordable premiums.

The Following Tips Offer Ways of Reducing Losses on Your Homeowners Policy:

Replace washing machine hoses when they show signs of deterioration. Consider replacing them with stainless steel hoses. The hoses should also not rub against the wall. In addition, turn off the washing machine water faucet when the appliance is not in use to prevent leaks.

If you experience a water leak, make sure it is properly repaired and promptly remediated, which can include the removal and replacement of building materials such as sheetrock. For larger water leaks, a professional who specializes in remediation should be called in. These measures will reduce the possibility of hazardous and expensive mold losses down the road.

Consider an automatic water shut-off system for your home. This type of system has sensors that detect water leaks. These sensors then send a wireless signal that interacts with the shut-off valve to turn off the water to the home.

Maintain your roof in optimal condition. A quality roof inspection on a periodic basis can identify sections that need repair and thus prevent water losses. Roofing materials containing high wind resistance features should be considered in windstorm-prone areas.

Ultimately, the purpose of insurance is to protect you financially in the event of an unforeseen loss or major catastrophe. By keeping your home in top condition, you prevent situations that could increase your costs or result in a more difficult time obtaining insurance for your property.  If you have questions about how maintenance and other loss prevention issues may impact your insurance protection plan, we’re glad to discuss them with you.

Copyright 2013
International Risk Management Institute, Inc.

Read Other Blog Posts

What to Do When Ice Dams Form A Practical Guide for New England Homeowners

What to Do When Ice Dams Form: A Practical Guide for New England Homeowners

Ice dams can form quickly during New England winters and lead to leaks, interior damage, and costly repairs. Learn what causes ice dams, the early warning signs to watch for, and the safest steps to take if one has already formed. This guide also shares simple prevention tips to help protect your roof and home throughout the winter.
Carbon Monoxide Safety for Your Home and Your Vehicle

Carbon Monoxide Safety for Your Home and Your Vehicle

Carbon monoxide is a silent winter danger that can affect anyone, whether you’re at home or sitting in your vehicle during a storm. Heavy snow, blocked vents, and improvised heating sources can cause CO to build up quickly without warning. This guide explains the most important do‑nots, safer alternatives, and key precautions to help protect your household, your passengers, and your neighbors during severe winter weather.
Black History Month Contributions in the Insurance Industry

Honoring Black History Month: Contributions in the Insurance Industry

Honoring Black History Month by highlighting the pioneering Black leaders and entrepreneurs who shaped the U.S. insurance industry. Learn how their efforts expanded access to coverage, promoted financial literacy, and strengthened communities through economic empowerment and generational wealth building.
Life Insurance Love Insurance

Love Insurance: How Life Insurance Can Be the Best Valentine’s Gift

This Valentine’s Day, celebrate love that lasts. Discover how life insurance, or love insurance, can protect your family and provide peace of mind beyond flowers and chocolates.
Shoveling snow

Snowmelt Damage Prevention Tips

Accumulating water from melting snow and ice—also known as snowmelt —can lead to significant property damage if not managed. It's important to be aware of this risk and take measures to prevent issues. Don’t let snowmelt wreak havoc on your home. Review guidance for snowmelt damage prevention recommendations.
Side-view mirror

The Defensive Driving Process

To be a defensive driver, it’s important to follow a three-step process: see hazards, determine potential responses, and act in time. Driving in Massachusetts means navigating heavy traffic, narrow roads, construction zones, and unpredictable New England weather. Defensive driving helps local drivers anticipate hazards, reduce accident risk, and protect their auto insurance record.
Be Ready for Severe Winter Weather Snowstorms, Ice, and Extreme Cold

Be Ready for Severe Winter Weather: Snowstorms, Ice, and Extreme Cold

Severe winter storms can bring heavy snow, ice, and extreme cold. Learn how to prepare your home, protect your vehicle, prevent frozen pipes and power outages, and take practical steps to keep your family safe during harsh winter weather.
Chimney

Chimney Maintenance Is Essential

A well-maintained chimney is essential for keeping your home safe, as neglected chimneys are a leading cause of fireplace-related fires and carbon monoxide issues. With an estimated 20,000 chimney fires occurring each year in the U.S., routine inspections and cleanings play a critical role in reducing creosote buildup and preventing costly damage. By making chimney care part of your annual home-maintenance plan, you’ll protect your property and ensure your fireplace operates safely all season long.
Woman buying a car

Shopping for a Safe Vehicle

When shopping for a new vehicle, safety should be a top consideration. This brief guide outlines key safety features—from crash protection to advanced driver assistance systems—and explains how they can impact your insurance costs. Understanding these factors can help you make a smarter, more informed purchase.

Visit Our Homeowners Insurance Page

Homeowners Insurance

At Murphy Insurance, we take great care in assessing your options for homeowners insurance to ensure that you receive the most favorable value. Our dedication to serving you entails collaborating with highly-rated insurance providers and conducting comprehensive assessments of available choices. Our goal is to achieve the ideal equilibrium between affordability and coverage that suits your unique needs. Please let us provide you with a customized homeowners insurance quote.