Homeowners Insurance Florida | “Musts-Dos” For Maintaining Your Vacant Property

BLOG_Whether you will be returning to occupy your vacant property, or re... (1)

A house is often the most significant investment you will ever make. If it will be sitting empty for a while, you need to take actions for maintaining your vacant property. Whether you will be returning to occupy the property again, or renting it out to another tenant, you’ll want to get adequate protection for your investment.

Vacant properties are at a higher risk of encountering problems than homes that have constant occupancy. A home that appears vacant can attract burglars, vandals, and squatters who will seek to use the home for their own means. Problems that develop with the home, such as pipes bursting or roof leaks, can go undetected for a long period of time.

When you’re away from home, we recommend these suggestions for maintaining your vacant property:

Maintain Curb Appeal

Some sure signs of a vacant home are an overgrown yard, high weeds, and overflowing or broken gutters. It is a wise investment to arrange for someone to come by to make sure everything looks neat and clean and to even schedule continuous yard maintenance. To avoid any unhappy accidents, we recommend at least a weekly check of the property. You may also consider adding automated or timed lighting both inside and outside to simulate regular use.

Install a Security System

A security system is a simple, effective way to keep an eye on your property while deterring criminal actions. Modern systems allow for real-time monitoring and alerts, and can even permit you to control access for maintenance and repairs from your smartphone, regardless of your location. Plus, security company signs in the yard act as a deterrent for would-be vandals and thieves.

Create a Monthly Maintenance List

While it is important for the outside of your home to look well-maintained, it is just as important for the inside of your home to be well-maintained. Reach out to a local handyman service or family member for maintaining your vacant property and receiving all mail and deliveries. Don’t forget to flush toilets regularly, run water in sinks, replace smoke detector and carbon monoxide detector batteries, replace HVAC filters, and ensure no insects or other critters are infesting the property.

Get the Right Coverage for Your Vacant Property

Whether you plan to return or are considering selling the home, be sure to maintain adequate insurance coverage to protect your investment. Standard Florida homeowners insurance policies are not designed to cover homes that will be vacant for extended periods of time.

If you have a vacant home, reach out to an American Integrity Insurance agent to learn more about our Vacant Coverage. Get the peace of mind and protection you need for your property.

American Integrity Insurance is committed to providing Florida homeowners with sound, comprehensive insurance coverage and an extraordinary customer experience. We strive to be a valued partner to our policyholders, agents, and community.

We offer traditional and high valued homeowners insurance, condo insurance, renters insurance, and the special coverage required for vacant homes, manufactured homes, and policies designed for those who need less coverage or are renting out their home. We also offer extra protection, including flood insurance, umbrella insurance, golf cart insurance, boat insurance, cyber coverageand identity theft protectionas well as equipment breakdown coverage, to help address a broad range of needs facing Florida homeowners today.