Homeowners insure their properties against a number of potential threats: theft, floods, fires, earthquakes and everything in between. Catastrophic events, of course, are generally rare but that’s when having coverage is most important. Western Mutual and Arizona Home are proud to be your preferred carrier and assist you in moments like the ones mentioned above; we have put our customers first for over 75 years.

Over those years we have successfully maintained our rates low by providing our customers vital information that enables them to avoid filing or experiencing costly claims.

Below we have shared the 5 top most costly claims and a simple solution to help you deter experiencing them.

1. WATER – Water loss claims are common in the United States. Whether there is a leaky faucet or a loose shingle, all homes are susceptible to water damage. Proper maintenance and early detection can be key in preventing this type of claim. Keeping up with yearly roof inspections to fix and replaced loose or broken shingles will keep your inner walls protected from rain damage.

2. HAIL – Even small pieces of hail can cause major damage, particularly when coupled with high winds. Each year, hail causes about $1 billion in damage to properties and crops, according to the National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration. A simple trick to avoid additional damage from hailstorms is cleaning your gutters and drains so that hail cannot pile up and weigh down or clog your drainage system.

3. THEFT – Each year, more than 2 million burglaries are reported in the U.S. Data from the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reporting Program reveals that the average dollar loss per burglary was $2,361 in 2016. Overall, property losses due to burglaries cost roughly $3.6 billion. Having a monitored alarm system has been proven to discourage thieves from entering a person’s home.

4. FIRE – With an estimated 400 thousand homes catching fire each year and an estimated $44,000 in average damages, house fires are one of the most devastating and costly claims. One important step to avoid this would be to ensure that the electrical wiring in your home is up to code. Have your electrical system checked by a licensed electrician at least once a year. Discuss fire safety with family members and minimize the use of candles around the home.

5. WIND – Wind is one of the most destructive forces on earth. Between 2009 and 2015, exterior wind damage claims accounted for 25% of all losses. Statistics show that 2017 was a record year for destruction resulting from natural disasters, such as hurricanes. Overall losses reached $330 billion. Every homeowner should install storm shutters or impact-resistant glass if you live in a region prone to tornadoes or hurricanes. Check window hinges, seals and locks and ensure that seals are free of cracks and dirt and that windows can be shut and securely latched.

We hope this information saves you from experiencing a horrific event and having to file a claim