In New England, autumn is one of those magical seasons. And while the leaves turning colors has spawned a whole tourism industry, it’s the leaves closer to home you’ll need to watch. As the leaves start to fall this season, as a homeowner, you need to be ready to stop leaf-related property damage before it starts. Learn what to do and how your insurance can help when problems do happen.

Preventing Leaf-Related Property Damage to Your Home

As the leaves start falling, you’re going to want to do both preventative and direct actions to keep your home safe. Here are some of the major measures:

• Keeping Gutters Clear of Leaves: High winds and rain can not only cause leaf falls but also strain your gutters. Ensure they are clear of leaves before any major storm, and consider installing gutter guards to help prevent leaf blockages.
• Raking Up Leaves on Yards & Walkways: Fallen leaves, especially after a rain, can pose a serious slip and fall hazard to both you and guests on your property. Make sure to clean up walkways regularly and any other high-traffic areas.
• Chimney Inspection, Including Cowls & Leaf Guards: Modern chimneys often feature cowls and guards to prevent leaf buildup that could potentially catch fire. Having these inspected for blockages and buildup is vital to prevent home fires.

Other Common Fall-Related Insurance Claims

Besides issues with leaves and your home, they can also prove a nuisance to your car. Cars parked outside have an increased risk of damage due to leaves, including clogged vents, paint damage, and providing a place for nesting pests. The holidays can also increase the risk of injury and theft, including guest liability claims and claims for home and vehicle theft. Learn more in our blog, Most Common Insurance Claims in the Fall.

How Insurance Helps Protect You in the Fall

Just like good home maintenance can help prevent damage, regular maintenance on your insurance can help protect you and your family from unfortunate and unforeseen situations.

• Homeowners Insurance: Your homeowners insurance covers many issues with your home, provided you keep up with maintenance and are familiar with your policy. It might be time to consult with someone about needed customizations.
• Liability Coverage: Slip and falls due to leaves and ice, holiday parties, and more can pose risks to your guests. Learn about your liability coverage and how umbrella insurance can help.
• Auto Insurance: Damage due to your car being exposed to the elements isn’t covered under standard policies. Learn about the coverage you need beyond the required MA car insurance

Know your fall hazards, especially if you’re new to Massachusetts, and ensure you’re completely protected, including for the warmer parts of the year. Here at Safeside Insurance, we have you covered. With more than 30 years of experience serving Worcester County and greater Massachusetts, we help homeowners get the right coverage for the right price. Contact us today to learn more or dive right into getting a quote!