David Bell | Oct 21 2021 00:00

Is Fire Damage Covered in Homeowners' Insurance?

Most homeowners' insurance policies will cover fire damage unless caused by an act of war or intentionally set by you or a family member. Fires are commonly caused by lightning strikes, electrical shocks, or sparks near a dryer vent. Understanding what causes fires is the best way to prevent them from occurring in your home. Eliminating excessive extension cords and not overloading your outlets are key elements of fire safety.

Fireplaces and Woodburning Stoves

Fireplaces and wood-burning stoves are conventional and efficient ways to heat your home. But, they are also high-risk fire hazards. There are fire codes in place that must be taken to ensure that your home has as much protection as possible. This includes using fire gates in front of your fireplace and placing wood burners in an area surrounded by flame-retardant materials. This material includes a cement or stone base that extends 18 inches outward from the stove and fireproof materials on the wall behind the wood burner.

Fire Extinguishers

Fire extinguishers should be placed strategically throughout your home. Having them in your kitchen, laundry room, and basement will give you easy access to them. The aim is for you to be ready in an instant to take action if a fire breaks out. Fire extinguishers come with an expiration date, so it's important to have them checked every year to ensure they are in good working order. If you want to replace them, call your local fire department and find out where to take them in your area.

Smoke Alarms

Smoke alarms should be on every floor of your home. Check the batteries in your smoke detectors twice a year and replace them as necessary. Having smoke alarms strategically placed throughout your home is essential for detecting a fire before it gets out of hand. Insurance companies will often give discounts to homeowners who have and maintain smoke alarms throughout their homes.

Home Security Systems

Advanced home security systems often include environmental monitors that detect smoke, moisture, and temperature changes throughout your home. With third-party monitoring, these changes are constantly being observed with any changes being reported to you. If a fire, smoke, or temperature change is detected, the monitoring service will immediately notify the fire department and other authorities so they can respond. This immediate reaction is essential in saving a home or other building that is on fire. Protecting your home from fire is a big responsibility. While your homeowners' insurance is there to protect you from financial loss, there are several things you can do to reduce your potential risk. Call the agents at Bell Black Insurance today to find out how they can help you fireproof your home and lower your potential risk of a devastating fire event. To secure your home, talk to one of our agents today so we can help you!