Offers Tips to Help Protect Property
HARTFORD, Conn.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--
Travelers (NYSE: TRV)
has identified some of the top causes of springtime property damage to
help consumers protect their homes as the seasons change. According to
Travelers claim data from 2012-2014, damage from the combination of
hail, windstorms, and sewer and sump pump backups occurs more frequently
in the months of March through May than any other time of year.
“Several problems homeowners contend with this time of year are related
to snow melting and spring storms,” said Jim Gustin, Senior Property
Specialist, Risk Control, Travelers. “Advance planning and routine home
maintenance can help lessen the effects of these weather events.”
To help prevent potential damage, Travelers recommends taking the
following steps:
-
Routinely maintain the trees around your home, including pruning tree
limbs within 10 feet of your home.
-
Retrofit soffits to help ensure they remain in place in high winds.
-
Strengthen doors and windows by installing reinforcing bolt kits at
the top and bottom of them.
-
Repair damaged gutters and downspouts, and ensure water can drain away
from your foundation. Clear exterior drains and gutters of debris.
-
Inspect sump pumps and drains regularly to ensure proper operation.
Check your sump pump battery backup to ensure it is working properly.
Homeowners policies do not typically cover damage caused by water
entering or seeping into the basement. Travelers encourages individuals
to speak with an independent insurance agent about whether coverage is
available for water backup or sump discharge or overflow.
For more information on general spring maintenance, and how to help
protect your home, please visit www.Travelers.com/prepare-prevent.
About Travelers
The Travelers Companies, Inc. (NYSE: TRV)
is a leading provider of property casualty insurance for auto,
home,
and business.
A component of the Dow Jones Industrial Average, Travelers has
approximately 30,000 employees and generated revenues of approximately
$27 billion in 2014. For more information, visit www.travelers.com.
Media:
The Travelers Companies, Inc.
Nicole Guzzardi,
860-277-0836
nguzzard@travelers.com
Source: The Travelers Companies, Inc.