Category: Renters Insurance

Renters Insurance and Theft During the Holiday Season

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. 
  • 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.  

 

Most Common Insurance Claims in the Fall

As the crisp fall air rolls in and the leaves start to change, many of us look forward to cozying up by the fireplace, heading out for scenic drives, and preparing for the upcoming holiday season. However, autumn also brings unique challenges that make proper insurance coverage vital. From weather-related accidents to home safety challenges, we will go over the most common insurance claims that are filed during the fall and how you can make sure you have the needed protection.  Continue reading Most Common Insurance Claims in the Fall

How Insurance Changes When Downsizing Your Home

Thinking about downsizing can feel like a really big step, but it’s an exciting chance to rethink what you really need in a home. Whether you are moving out of your parents’ home into your first apartment or from a family home to a retirement condo, there are several important aspects to keep in mind. In this blog, we will walk you through how insurance changes when downsizing your home and guide you through taking a new home inventory, assessing changes in liabilities, and determining whom it needs to cover.   Continue reading How Insurance Changes When Downsizing Your Home

Reviewing Your Current Insurance in the New Year

A new year means a lot of different things to a lot of different people. New personal or financial goals, dealing with new purchases from the holidays, or a new business year. Regardless of your situation or plans, one thing everyone should do in the new year is revisit their insurance. Whether it’s homeowners, renters, auto, or business policies, reviewing your current insurance alongside your ambitions for this year is the first step to meeting your resolutions. Continue reading Reviewing Your Current Insurance in the New Year

A Guide to Renting an Apartment in College

College is an amazing experience, but renting a college apartment can be a nail-biter. If you’re new to the leasing market or were burned by a previous encounter, it pays to go into any leasing office with a plan. Below, we outline several steps to prepare to meet a landlord, sign a lease, and get the right renters insurance. Learn how renting an apartment in college only get better with the right protection for you and your possessions. Continue reading A Guide to Renting an Apartment in College

Keeping Your Home Safe During Holiday Vacations

Whether you’re heading out for the winter holidays or a summer vacation, it’s important to leave behind a home that will be safe while you’re away. From avoiding accidents while you’re gone to deterring burglary with help from neighbors, preparing your home for a prolonged absence requires a little bit of work and planning. Regardless of if you live in a gated community apartment or an isolated house, learn how to keep your home safe during holiday vacations. Continue reading Keeping Your Home Safe During Holiday Vacations