Johnson Group Insurance Blog

Keep your Home Safe While You're Away with These 5 Tips

Wed, 13 Mar 2024 16:20:40 GMT

Are you planning your next big family vacation? Maybe you’re traveling for business, or need to be away from home for a few days. Although we don't like to think about the possibility of our home being damaged or burglarized while we're away, it's something to consider to ensure that it stays safe - and in one piece for your return.

Check out our five tips for ensuring that your home is safe while you're away.

Be sure to check all outlets before you leave. This may sound like a no-brainer, but checking all of the electrical outlets before you leave your home is a must. If you leave something that creates heat plugged in, like a curling iron or coffee pot, it could result in a fire. Taking a few minutes to do a once-over before you leave to ensure that all appliances are unplugged before you leave will give you peace of mind.
Lock all doors and all windows, even the ones that you don't think are easily accessible. One of the biggest mistakes that homeowners make is not checking all of their doors and windows before they leave. You want to be sure to check even the doors that you don't think are accessible from the outside - like the doors to your home from your attached garage, and other internal entrance points, like from your basement to your main level. This will ensure that you have various levels of protection in the event of a break in.
If you normally leave the blinds open, do so. You want to leave things looking as normal as possible, and not leave any reason for passersby to think that you're gone. Keep your home safe by leaving some blinds open to give people the impression that someone is still in the home.
Stop the mail for the time period that you're gone. Like we mentioned in the previous tip, you want to give the impression that you're still home. If passersby see that your mailbox is bursting at the seams, they might get the idea that you're gone, which is exactly what you want to avoid. Stop your mail delivery for the time period that you're gone, so that you don't have to worry about people becoming suspicious.
Insure your home properly. With proper home insurance, you can travel in peace. Be sure to talk with Johnson Group Insurance about the right coverage for your home.

Now go enjoy a much-needed vacation!

How to Choose Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Wed, 28 Feb 2024 16:20:40 GMT

Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are essential for any home, so you should ensure that your house is equipped with them. You should have detectors in the main living areas on each floor, including in every bedroom and the kitchen. This way, you'll be able to identify problems in the most important areas as quickly as possible. However, not all detectors are the same. Here's what you need to know to pick appropriate ones for your home.

Types of Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

First, you'll need to choose between individual and combination devices. With individual devices, you'll have separate detectors for smoke and carbon monoxide. As you might have guessed, combination devices can detect both smoke and carbon monoxide from a single device. While combo options can be a bit more costly, they'll take up less space on your ceiling, keeping the overall look clean and uncluttered.

You'll also have to choose between wired and battery-powered options. In general, battery-powered detectors are cheaper and easier to install, though you'll need to replace the batteries periodically. It is also a smart idea to test them frequently to ensure they are working properly. If you opt for wired detectors, consider choosing the kind with backup batteries to ensure they continue working in the event of a power failure.

Finally, modern smoke and carbon monoxide detectors also come in smart versions. These devices connect to your home's internet connection, enabling you to monitor them from your smartphone or other mobile device. This way, you can check on your home while you are at work or out of town to ensure everything is safe. These devices tend to be the most expensive, but they'll also give you the greatest peace of mind, especially if you travel frequently.

Adding Sprinkler Systems

If you live in an area that is prone to fires, you may wish to add overhead sprinklers to your home as well. In fact, some jurisdictions actually require them, so be sure to check the laws in your area. Modern sprinkler systems can sync with your smoke detectors, activating the sprinklers in case of fire.

Upgrade Your Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Even if your home already has detectors in place, you may wish to upgrade them to more modern versions. This will give you the greatest amount of protection for both your home and your loved ones. You may even be able to save a bit of money on your home insurance. Get in touch with us to learn more.

Avoiding Water Issues in Your Home

Wed, 14 Feb 2024 16:20:40 GMT

Water damage is one of the worst problems that homeowners can run into. Not only can it be incredibly expensive to repair, depending on the extent of the damage, but it can also create the potential for mold and mildew to form. This can pose a serious health risk to you and your loved ones, especially if anyone has allergies, asthma, or other breathing problems. Follow these helpful tips to minimize your risk of water issues in and around your home.

Know Where the Shutoff Valve Is

Everyone in your home should know where the water supply shutoff valve is located. In many homes, it is in the garage, in the basement, or along the side of the house towards the front of the property. Make sure that everyone knows how to operate it as well. This way, if you encounter a burst pipe or other complication, you'll be able to turn off the water supply as quickly as possible to minimize the extent of the damage.

Maintain Your Sprinkler System

As long as your plants and lawn are healthy, you probably don't give much thought to your sprinkler system. However, this is one of the most common areas for burst pipes, as plant and tree roots are often strong enough to puncture the pipes and hoses throughout your sprinkler system. When your system is running, take the time to inspect your yard, looking for any areas that are especially wet, as this could be a sign of an underground leak. Fixing the leak not only prevents the damage from spreading to your home but stops your water bills from skyrocketing as well.

Winterize All Outdoor Pipes and Faucets

If you live in an area that is prone to freezing in the winter, it is crucial that you winterize any exposed pipes. Water expands as it freezes, which can rupture the pipes, leading to a massive leak when the water thaws once again. Thermal wrappings for pipes are relatively inexpensive, but they don't last forever. Be sure to inspect them before the cold weather hits each year, replacing them as needed to keep your pipes protected.

The better you are able to keep watch on your water system, the easier it will be to spot any potential leaks before they can cause major damage to your property. So, stay vigilant throughout the year to keep your home safe!

Upgrading Your Windows - How to Choose What's Best for Your House

Wed, 31 Jan 2024 16:20:40 GMT

You may not give the windows on your home much thought, but they can actually make a big difference not just in your comfort level, but also in the value of your home. You'll have a wide range of options to choose from, so it is important to evaluate your choices carefully. Here's what you need to know.

Types of Windows

For starters, you'll need to choose how you would like your windows to open. For example, casement windows rotate from a hinge on the side, opening towards the outside of your house. Single-hung and double-hung windows, on the other hand, slide vertically to open one portion of the window. Similarly, slider windows slide sideways to open each side.

If you don't need the window to open to allow airflow into your home, consider bay windows, which can allow you to add a comfortable window seat for relaxing or reading. Picture windows are great for showcasing a beautiful view.

Types of Glass

Next, you'll need to decide whether you want standard or double-paned glass. Standard glass is typically more affordable, though double-paned glass is more energy-efficient. It helps to maintain the temperature inside your home so you don't have to rely on your air conditioning or heating as much. While these windows are more costly initially, you'll save money in the long run on your energy costs. They are also more durable, helping to deter potential burglars. You also have the option of adding thermal films to boost energy efficiency.

Additional Features

Finally, you'll need to consider the overall security of your windows. While this is less of a concern on upper levels as they are more difficult to access, you'll want to ensure the windows on your ground floor are as secure as possible. Locks, opening sensors, and glass-break sensors can prevent thieves from trying to break into your home through the windows.

To decide which types of windows are best for your needs, consider your needs, preferences, and budget, not just in the short term, but over the long run as well. A bit of extra investment upfront can enhance your comfort and peace of mind while also adding value to your property.