Imagine what happens when the power goes off. Instantly, your refrigerator cannot keep food cold. Your home’s heating and cooling system cannot work. The sump pump in the basement cannot run. These are all risks. And, they can raise the risk of you having to file a home insurance claim. It is no
wonder, then, that adding a generator to a home can reduce your home insurance costs. But, there are a few key things to consider before you do so.
Make Your Home Storm Resistant
One of the best ways to keep your home insurance costs low is to make it safer. You may already do this with a home security system and using smoke detectors. However, a generator can help to storm-proof your property. It helps to reduce claims you may file as a result of the storm. Some insurance companies call this a loss mitigation credit.
Here are a few examples of how it may work for you.
- You install a standby generator. If the power goes out due to a thunderstorm, the generator can help to power your sump pump in the basement. This helps ensure water does not back up in the home. It minimizes losses associated with damage from backed up water.
- You install the generator, and a storm takes out the power for six hours. In most cases, you need to toss out the food you have in the refrigerator or freezer as a result of being without power. You can sometimes file a home insurance claim for it. Nevertheless, the generator helps avoid this loss.
- In an ice storm, keeping the heat on in your home is essential. Otherwise, frozen pipes can develop, burst and lead to water damage. Generators can help minimize this risk, too.
Discuss the potential discount with your home insurance provider. Some will recommend a specific type of generator. Others will require you to place the generator outdoors only. There are risks to using generators. They can be expensive to operate, too. However, in a storm or other incident, they can be important to maintaining the integrity of your home.
Speak to your home insurance agent about the risks. Find out if a home insurance discount applies to you for using a generator. It may be one of the best investments you make in protecting your home from storm damage in any season.
Also Read: Protecting Your Home During Bad Weather in Louisiana