How Extreme Weather Can Wreak Havoc on Your Home

Three ways that bad weather can damage your home.

Regardless of where you live, all homeowners face the threat of bad weather.  Whether it be blistering hot summers or icy cold winters, exposure to these conditions can take a toll on your home.  To stave off the worst of weather-related damage, look out for these ways that bad weather can damage your home.

1) Subsidence

Subsidence refers to a home sinking into the ground.  Oftentimes, subsidence occurs when an area is hit with very hot, dry weather after a period of wet conditions.  The heat dries out the soil and, as the moisture leaves, the ground contracts.  This, in turn, causes buildings to sink into the ground, disrupting the structure of the home.  Common signs of subsidence include large cracks in your home’s walls and misaligned or jammed windows and doors.

2) Flood

If you live in a place that experiences rainfall or snowy winters that are immediately followed by warm spring temperatures, then you face an increased risk for flooding.  If you live in an area prone to flooding, then you should make sure that the drains on your property are clear of any debris that could clog them.  You should also make sure to protect your home with a flood insurance policy.

3) Wildfires

If you live in a place prone to hot, dry weather, then you may face a higher risk for wildfires.  This is because the dry brush can ignite quickly and spread over a large area in a matter of minutes.  To protect against wildfire damage, make sure you create a fire zone around the perimeter of your home.  Remove all flammable materials in this zone, so wildfires have a harder time reaching your home.  Additionally, make sure that you have adequate fire insurance in place.

These are some of the ways that bad weather can damage your home.  Remember, having the right homeowners insurance can help you address these threats.  Do you need assistance with your home coverage?  If so, then contact the experts at Mike Leonard Insurance Agency.   Our dedicated team is eager to find you the right coverage from one of our many carriers, including: Kemper, MetLife, Nationwide, Travelers, Safeco Insurance, Progressive, and American Strategic Insurance.