Summer is a season best spent outdoors or traveling to new destinations, but while you may be ready to make the most of it, you’ll want to make sure to review your homeowners insurance policy first. With proper coverage, it will protect your home and possessions from any risk, accident, or liability the coming months may bring.

Summer storms

Summer can bring severe and unpredictable weather, including hurricanes, hail, tornadoes, and even wildfires. These natural disasters can cause significant damage to your property, making it important to check that you’re insured against these potential risks. Depending on where you live, you may want to purchase additional coverage for flood or wildfire damage; flooding is typically not covered under any standard policy, and some insurers won’t cover wildfires in areas where they’re common. Whatever your environment, be sure to talk to your provider before the season starts.

Outdoor activities

Though outdoor activities like barbecues, water games, and family get-togethers are perfect this time of year, these happenings may also increase the risk of accidents on your property. Reviewing your policy can help ensure that you have liability coverage in case someone is injured while visiting your home. This is especially important if you have any “attractive nuisances”; these are features such as a pool or trampoline that are attractive to kids and pose a higher risk than normal. Check that your policy covers liability for injuries or damages that occur in or around these features, and consider increasing your coverage for extra peace of mind.

Vacations

Your policy should protect your property and personal belongings, but if you plan on traveling during summer, make sure you have adequate coverage for any potential damage or theft that could occur while you’re gone. Some policies may require you to take certain precautions, such as notifying your insurer of your absence or taking measures to secure your home; this is your opportunity to ensure you’re doing your part to protect your things.

Home improvements

Summer is a great time to not only perform regular maintenance on the interior and exterior of your home but also complete any renovations on your to-do list. If you plan on making major improvements to your home, you’ll need to update your insurance policy accordingly. This could mean increasing your current coverage limits to better represent the costs it would take to repair or rebuild in the event of a loss or purchasing additional coverage for a new building added on your property or to your home’s structure.

Before summer starts, take the time to review your homeowners insurance policy so you can protect your home and assets from any potential risks. Be sure to contact your insurance agent for more guidance on how to ensure your policy is meeting your current needs.