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

Car in traffic

Risks of Lowering Auto Coverage

Many drivers look to reduce their auto insurance premiums by lowering coverage or dropping parts of their policy altogether. While it’s true that cutting back can save a few dollars in the short term, the long-term consequences of being underinsured can be financially devastating—especially in the aftermath of a serious accident. Learn about ways you can save without exposing yourself to major financial risk.
Students

The Good Student Discount

Teens and young adults often face hefty auto insurance premiums because, statistically, new drivers are more likely to get into car accidents. However, most carriers offer a way to help offset some of this financial burden—a good student discount. Learn more about how to qualify.
Senior driver

Driving Safely As You Grow Older

As you get older and wiser, you might come to the realization that you just can’t do some things quite like you used to. When it comes to driving, it's important to stay safe and feel confident behind the wheel. Learn about smart driving tips for seniors and precautions to ensure your safety and that of those around you on the road.
MHM 1

Introducing the Murphy Insurance Homeowner’s Manual: Your Guide to Preventing Costly Home Repairs & Damages

Murphy Insurance Agency has launched a new Homeowner’s Manual designed to help you prevent costly home repairs and avoid common insurance claims. Backed by decades of real-world experience, this practical guide offers seasonal tips, safety advice, and a maintenance checklist to protect your home—and your wallet—all year long. Download your copy today!
Protecting Your Marlborough Home A Local Guide to Homeowners Insurance

Protecting Your Marlborough Home: A Local Guide to Homeowners Insurance

Thinking about homeowners' insurance in Marlborough, MA? Whether you're settling into your first home or reviewing your coverage, Murphy Insurance offers expert guidance and tailored protection designed for New England’s unique risks. Discover what’s included, what to expect, and how our local team can help you protect what matters most.
House with trees

10 Signs a Tree May Fall on Your Property

Trees can be valuable additions to any property; however, each year, fallen trees and branches cause millions of dollars in property damage. It is crucial to proactively recognize signs a tree may be at risk of falling to help prevent dangerous and costly accidents.
Renters Insurance in Medway, MA Protect Yourself Original

Renters Insurance in Medway, MA: Protect Yourself

Renting in Medway, MA offers convenience—but without renters insurance, your belongings may be at risk. While your landlord’s policy covers the building, it doesn’t protect your personal property or shield you from liability. Renters insurance provides affordable coverage for theft, fire, water damage, and personal liability. With options tailored to your needs, local agencies like Murphy Insurance make it easy to get covered.

Spring Clean Your Insurance: A Fresh Start for Your Policies

With Spring often comes spring cleaning. Have you ever thought about giving your insurance policies a little spring cleaning too? Just like your home, your insurance coverage needs attention and regular updates to ensure it’s still a good fit for your current needs.
What to Do When a Hurricane Threatens

Get Ready for Hurricane Season in New England: What You Need to Know

While New England is not typically directly in the hurricane "strike zone" like the Gulf Coast or the Southeast, that doesn’t mean we’re immune to the dangers of hurricanes and tropical storms. With that in mind, it's important to have a plan as hurricane season approaches and be sure you understand your insurance coverage.

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.