As the holiday season quickly approaches, many find themselves making large purchases to gift to their loved ones. Unfortunately, paired with the season of giving, is a 20% increase in theft-related crimes. In this blog, we will go over how you can handle theft during the holiday season as a renter and what strategies you can use to protect your assets to provide your family with the comfort the winter months bring.  

How Does Renters Insurance Protect Against Theft? 

If you are renting a home or apartment this holiday season and have not purchased renters insurance, it is the perfect time to think about adding it to your plan. At a low monthly cost, renters insurance not only protects your home against damages and liabilities, but also theft—whether it occurs in your home or off the property.  

Things to Consider 

• Taking a Home Inventory: Having an up-to-date list of all your “big ticket items” is key in keeping track of how your totals stack up against what your policy limits are, especially when you start purchasing expensive gifts. 

• Filing Claims: If you are filing multiple claims, you will have a higher premium. Consider the value of the items before filing a claim, as it may not be justifiable. 

• Deductibles: Before your insurance covers the remaining cost of the stolen items, you will have to pay a deductible beforehand.  

Protecting Your Belongings Against Theft

Being mindful about busy shopping plazas, package deliveries, and keeping your house secure is key in protecting yourself before renters insurance needs to step in. 

• Hide Valuable Items: If you have completed a big shopping trip, keep them out of sight from potential thieves and do not leave them in your vehicle overnight. Parking in well-lit, monitored areas is also a good idea.  

• Lock Your Home and Vehicle: Always lock your vehicle and home, even if you are leaving for a short period of time.  

• Install a Security System: Having a security system outside of your home can help you monitor any unusual activity, especially as your package deliveries increase. If it is an option, change the delivery time to when someone will be home. 

• Be Cautious Online: If you are going away for the holidays, do not post your activity until you have returned home.  

• Vacations: Pause mail and newspaper deliveries while away, so there is no noticeable pile-up. Think about leaving a couple lights on, or better yet, place them on a timer.  

 Now that you know how renters insurance can protect you and your family both at your home and off your property, it is time to review your coverage to make sure your policy limits match your needs. To review your coverage or start services with us at the Safeside Insurance Agency, you can call us at (508) 753-8862 or visit our website here. With over 30 years of experience servicing the Worcester Area, we are here to find you the coverage you need to keep you and your loved ones safe.