Protecting your home against potential losses is key to maintaining peace of mind and avoiding unforeseen expenses. By understanding common home insurance claims, you can take proactive steps to prevent them.

In this article, we'll explore the five most common home insurance claims and provide practical tips to avoid them. Read on to equip yourself with the knowledge you need to protect your most significant investment—your home.

1. Water damage
Water damage is one of the most common reasons people file home insurance claims. It can happen because of burst pipes, plumbing leaks, appliance problems or heavy rain. Standard home insurance usually covers some types of water damage, but if you’re dealing with sewer backups or flooding, you’ll likely need extra coverage.

Preventative measures:

• Regularly inspect and maintain your plumbing system.

• Install a sump pump and ensure it's functioning properly.

• Use water leak detectors and automatic shut-off valves to catch leaks early.

• Ensure proper drainage around your home to prevent water from pooling near the foundation.

• Clean gutters and downspouts regularly to avoid blockages.

• Consider adding sewer backup and overland flooding coverage to your policy for extra protection.

2. Fire and smoke damage
Fire and smoke damage can quickly cause major losses to your home and belongings. Common sources of fires include electrical malfunctions, gas leaks, kitchen accidents and natural events like lightning.

Preventative measures:

• Install and regularly test smoke alarms on every level of your home.

• Keep fire extinguishers accessible in key areas like the kitchen and garage.

• Avoid overloading electrical outlets and replace faulty wiring immediately.

• Store flammable materials safely and away from heat sources.

• Regularly inspect heating systems and have them serviced by professionals.

• Establish and regularly practice a fire escape plan to ensure everyone in your home knows how to respond in an emergency.

3. Theft and vandalism
Theft and vandalism don't just cost money; they can leave homeowners feeling violated. Luckily, there are ways to keep criminals at bay by making your home a less appealing target.

Preventative measures:

• Install a comprehensive security system with alarms and cameras.

• Use sturdy locks on doors and windows and reinforce entry points.

• Keep your property well-lit and maintain clear sightlines to deter intruders.

• Avoid advertising expensive purchases or vacations on social media.

• Keep valuable items in a safe or deposit box.

• Join or start a neighbourhood watch program to keep an eye on each other's properties.

4. Wind and hail damage
With storm activity on the rise, wind and hail damage are becoming more common. This kind of damage can hit your home's roof, windows and siding, leading to hefty repair bills.

Preventative measures:

• Regularly inspect and maintain your roof, repairing or replacing damaged shingles as needed.

• Install storm shutters or impact-resistant windows.

• Secure outdoor furniture and other items that could become projectiles in high winds.

• Trim trees and branches near your home to prevent them from falling during storms.

• Ensure that your home’s siding is in good condition and can withstand harsh weather.

5. Sewer backup
Sewer backups are happening more often, especially now that basements are turning into living spaces. If you don't tackle them quickly, they can cause major water damage and even lead to mould growth.

Preventative measures:

• Avoid pouring grease or disposing of non-flushable items down your drains.

• Install a backwater prevention valve to stop sewage from entering your home.

• Maintain your sewer lines with regular inspections and cleaning.

• Ensure that your landscaping doesn’t interfere with sewer lines.

• Be cautious of planting trees with invasive root systems near your home.

• Consider adding sewer backup coverage to your insurance policy for added security.

Regular inspections, timely repairs, and preventive measures are key to keeping your home and finances safe from unforeseen losses. Plus, it's a good idea to review and update your insurance policy to make sure you're covered for any surprises.

If you're a current OTIP policyholder, contact us at 1-833-615-9329 to review your existing home insurance policy and discuss enhancing your protection with additional optional coverage. If you’re not insured with OTIP and are shopping for home insurance, call us at 1-833-494-0085 to get a quote and receive a $20 gift card of your choice!