Byron Pelt Insurance Blog

Six Overlooked Items You Should Add to Your Home Inventory

Fri, 27 Feb 2026 06:00:00 GMT

Creating a home inventory is one of the smartest steps you can take to prepare for the possibility of a future insurance claim. If your belongings are damaged or stolen, a detailed list makes it easier to verify losses and can speed up the claims process. While most people remember to include furniture, electronics, and appliances, there are a few often-overlooked items that can make a big difference.

Here are six things you might be forgetting in your home inventory, and why you should add them now.

1. Clothing and Accessories

Most people underestimate how much their wardrobe is worth. Coats, suits, shoes, handbags, and even everyday clothing can add up quickly. High-end or designer items may even need to be scheduled separately for proper coverage. Be sure to include seasonal clothing, like winter gear stored in the basement or garage, and take photos of anything of significant value.

2. Tools and Lawn Equipment

Power tools, lawnmowers, snow blowers, and garden tools are easy to forget, especially if they’re stored in the garage or shed. These items can be expensive to replace and are often targeted in thefts. Include any major outdoor equipment in your inventory, and don’t forget about toolboxes and specialty gear you’ve collected over time.

3. Kitchenware and Small Appliances

From stand mixers and espresso machines to cast iron pans and chef’s knives, kitchen items can be surprisingly costly to replace. Smaller appliances like toasters, air fryers, or blenders often get overlooked but should be included, especially if they’re high-end brands. Also consider specialty utensils, dinnerware sets, fine china, and bakeware collections that have accumulated over the years.

4. Hobby Equipment

Whether it’s photography gear, musical instruments, crafting tools, or sports equipment, hobby-related items can be worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Make sure to document these, including make, model, and serial numbers where applicable. Items like bicycles, golf clubs, or camping gear are also commonly stored out of sight but shouldn’t be forgotten.

5. Jewelry and Collectibles

While high-value jewelry is often separately insured, everyday pieces and keepsakes are sometimes left off inventories. The same goes for collectibles, whether it’s comic books, records, figurines, or family heirlooms. These items may not always be replaceable, but documenting them helps support your claim if damage or theft occurs.

6. Electronics and Entertainment Gear

Electronics are some of the most valuable items in a home, but they’re often under-documented in home inventories. Computers, tablets, speakers, gaming consoles, and streaming devices can quickly add up in value, especially when you include accessories like monitors, external hard drives, and controllers.

Be sure to record make, model, and serial numbers whenever possible, and take clear photos of each item. Don’t forget smart home devices like thermostats, doorbell cameras, or voice assistants, which may be mounted or tucked into corners.

Update Your Inventory Before You Need It

A complete and up-to-date home inventory can make filing a claim faster, easier, and more accurate. Walk through your home with a camera and notebook, and store your inventory in a secure digital location. Contact us today for an insurance policy review to ensure your belongings are properly covered, especially the ones you might have overlooked.

Insurance Tips for First-Time Homebuyers

Wed, 25 Feb 2026 06:00:00 GMT

Buying your first home is an exciting milestone, but it also comes with a learning curve, especially when it comes to homeowners insurance. With so many options and coverages to consider, it’s important to understand what you're buying and how to make sure your new investment is properly protected.

Here are a few tips every first-time homebuyer should know when shopping for homeowners insurance.

Know What Your Policy Actually Covers

Many standard homeowners insurance policies include four main types of protection: your home’s structure (the dwelling), personal belongings, liability coverage, and additional living expenses if your home becomes uninhabitable due to a covered loss. However, every policy has exclusions and limitations.

For instance, damage from floods or earthquakes usually requires separate coverage. And your personal property coverage may have sub-limits for high-value items like jewelry, artwork, or electronics. Review the policy in detail and ask questions about what’s included, and what isn’t. Knowing your coverage ahead of time prevents surprises when you file a claim.

Don’t Just Focus on Price

While budget is always a factor, choosing the lowest premium shouldn’t be your only consideration. A cheaper policy may come with higher deductibles, less comprehensive coverage, or lower limits, leaving you vulnerable when it matters most. Instead, you may want to look for a policy that provides replacement cost coverage (not actual cash value), so you’re reimbursed for the full cost to repair or replace items without depreciation.

Ask About Additional Coverage Options

If your home is in a flood zone or earthquake-prone area, you’ll likely need an additional flood insurance policy for that type of coverage. You may also want to consider endorsements or riders (additions to your policy) for things like sewer backup, identity theft protection, or extended replacement cost coverage. Optional add-ons vary by insurer, so it’s worth discussing your home’s unique needs with your agent to ensure you're not leaving gaps in coverage.

Update Your Policy as Your Life Changes

Your homeowners insurance policy should evolve with you. If you make upgrades to your home, like finishing a basement, remodeling a kitchen, or adding a deck, you may need to adjust your dwelling coverage to reflect the increased value.

Likewise, buying new furniture, electronics, or valuables might require increasing your personal property limits. An annual insurance review can help ensure you’re properly insured if something unexpected happens.

We’re Here to Help You Start Off Right

As a first-time homebuyer, understanding your insurance coverage can help you avoid costly gaps in protection. With the right coverage in place, you can enjoy your new home with peace of mind. Contact us today for a personalized home insurance review and get the protection you need as you step into homeownership.

What to Check Before Letting Your Teen Drive the Family Car

Wed, 04 Jun 2025 05:00:00 GMT

Handing over the keys to your teenager is a big moment—for them and for you. While it marks a new level of independence, it also comes with serious responsibilities, including making sure your insurance coverage is ready for this milestone. Before your teen hits the road, here are a few important things to review to help protect your family, your finances, and your peace of mind.

Understand Who Owns the Vehicle

If your teen will be driving a family vehicle, they can likely be covered under your existing policy. If you plan to buy a separate vehicle for them, ownership matters. A car titled in your teen’s name may require a separate policy, depending on your insurer. Before making any purchases or policy changes, speak with your insurance agent to determine the best setup for coverage, cost, and flexibility.

Review Your Insurance Coverage

Most auto insurance policies require you to inform the insurer when a new driver is added to your household. If your teen is licensed and living at home, your insurer likely needs to include them on your policy, even if they’re just an occasional driver. Failing to report a teen driver could result in denied claims or gaps in coverage.

Adding a teen to your auto policy may increase your premium, but some insurers may offer discounts for good grades, safe driving courses, or driving vehicles with strong safety ratings. Our insurance agents can check for insurance discounts that might be available to you.

Teen drivers are statistically more likely to be involved in accidents. That’s why it’s important to make sure your liability limits are high enough to protect your assets if your teen causes an accident. You may also want to consider collision coverage if your teen will be driving a newer or more valuable vehicle. This can help cover the cost of repairs if the vehicle is damaged, regardless of who is at fault.

If you’re concerned about the potential financial impact of a major accident, an umbrella insurance policy can provide extra liability protection beyond your auto policy limits. This added layer of coverage is often affordable and can offer peace of mind, especially with a new driver in the household.

Set Expectations for Safe Driving

Insurance is important, but avoiding accidents is even better. Talk to your teen about distracted driving, speeding, seatbelt use, and safe driving habits. Consider creating a parent-teen driving agreement that outlines expectations and consequences.

Some families also choose to use driving apps or telematics programs that track speed, braking, and phone use. These tools can promote accountability and may even help lower premiums over time.

It may seem obvious, but make sure your teen has the correct type of driver’s license or permit before getting behind the wheel. Many states have graduated licensing systems that include restrictions for new drivers, such as curfews, passenger limits, or supervision requirements. Knowing and following these rules is essential for staying safe and legal.

Protect Your Teen and Your Family with the Right Coverage

Getting your teen on the road safely starts with smart preparation. From updating your insurance policy to setting clear rules, taking the right steps can help you avoid surprises and stay protected. If you're unsure how to update your policy or what level of coverage makes sense, contact us today. We’ll help you review your options and find a solution that balances safety, coverage, and cost.

How Regular Equipment Maintenance Can Help Prevent Costly Claims

Mon, 02 Jun 2025 05:00:00 GMT

For many businesses, equipment is the engine that keeps operations running. Whether it’s commercial HVAC units, manufacturing machinery, kitchen appliances, or company vehicles, equipment failures can bring work to a halt, and in some cases, trigger insurance claims with potentially high deductibles. That’s why regular equipment maintenance is about more than efficiency. It’s a key risk management strategy that can protect your bottom line.

Maintenance and Risk Reduction Go Hand in Hand

Not all equipment is created equal, and neither are maintenance needs. A restaurant's refrigeration systems require different care than a contractor’s power tools or a retail store’s security system. That’s why it’s important to create a maintenance plan tailored to the specific demands of your business. Work with your vendors, technicians, or facilities team to develop a schedule that aligns with manufacturer recommendations and industry best practices. Customizing your approach ensures you’re focusing attention where it matters most, and minimizing the risk of operational disruptions and insurance claims related to neglected assets.

Well-maintained equipment is less likely to fail unexpectedly, cause injury, or lead to property damage. For example, a neglected air conditioning unit might leak and cause water damage, or an unmaintained forklift might malfunction and injure an employee. These kinds of preventable incidents are not only costly, but can impact your insurance. Routine maintenance allows you to catch small problems before they become major issues. Scheduling regular inspections and tune-ups for essential systems ensures your equipment stays in compliance, performs reliably, and poses less of a risk to your operations.

Boost Safety and Productivity

Beyond protecting your insurance record, proactive maintenance also improves workplace safety and operational uptime. Employees who rely on faulty tools or machinery are more likely to experience injuries. On the flip side, dependable equipment keeps productivity on track and reduces the likelihood of last-minute shutdowns. Businesses with fewer incidents and better loss histories may also qualify for lower insurance rates over time.

Protect Your Investment, Reduce Your Risk

Staying on top of equipment maintenance isn’t just good business, it’s a vital part of your risk management strategy. Don’t wait for a breakdown or accident to evaluate your coverage. Contact us today for a commercial insurance review and learn how to better protect your business from avoidable losses.

How to Prevent Workplace Injuries and Reduce Workers’ Compensation Claims

Tue, 20 May 2025 05:00:00 GMT

Workplace injuries affect more than just your team. They can also disrupt operations and increase costs. For business owners, preventing injuries is key to protecting employees, maintaining productivity, and minimizing workers’ compensation claims. The good news is that many workplace accidents can be prevented with the right training and protocols in place. Whether you operate a construction company, retail store, restaurant, or office-based business, the steps below can help you create a safer work environment and reduce the likelihood of costly claims.

Promote a Safety-First Culture

Safety should be a shared responsibility throughout your organization. When business owners and managers consistently prioritize workplace safety, it sends a clear message to employees. Encourage open communication about hazards, involve your team in safety initiatives, and reward safe behaviors. Regular safety meetings, visible signage, and short daily or weekly check-ins help keep safety top of mind in any work setting.

Training is another effective tool for injury prevention. All new hires should receive detailed onboarding that includes safety procedures for their specific job duties. Offering ongoing training throughout the year helps reinforce those lessons and keeps safety fresh in employees’ minds.

Topics should include proper lifting techniques, emergency response procedures, use of personal protective equipment, and any job-specific safety concerns. For teams handling equipment or chemicals, advanced training may be necessary.

Use Proper Tools and Equipment

Make sure employees have access to well-maintained tools and the right protective gear for the job. Damaged or outdated equipment can increase the risk of accidents, so be sure to implement a maintenance schedule and replace worn-out gear regularly.

In office environments, be aware of ergonomic hazards as well. Providing adjustable chairs, monitor stands, and encouraging regular movement can reduce strain and improve comfort. Routine inspections can help you spot potential hazards before they lead to injuries. Keep an eye out for:

Wet or uneven floors
Cluttered walkways or blocked exits
Poor lighting in high-traffic areas
Malfunctioning or unguarded equipment

Respond Quickly and Keep Good Records

Despite your best efforts, incidents may still happen. Responding quickly and documenting everything helps limit the impact of workplace injuries and supports the workers’ compensation claims process. Provide a simple, clear process for employees to report safety concerns, and be sure to respond promptly when issues arise.

Log all incidents, investigate their causes, and take corrective action to prevent similar issues in the future. This process not only promotes safety but can also reveal patterns that help guide training or policy changes.

Partner with Your Insurance Advisor

Preventing workplace injuries supports a healthier, more productive team and reduces the financial strain that workplace injuries can bring about. When you take safety seriously, employees notice, and the long-term benefits go far beyond compliance. Contact us today if you're unsure about your current workers’ compensation coverage or want advice on improving safety in your workplace. We help business owners evaluate risk exposures and ensure coverage is aligned with operations and goals.

Getting Your RV Ready for Spring Travel

Fri, 16 May 2025 20:00:22 GMT

As the weather warms up and the open road starts calling, spring is the perfect time to get your RV ready for travel. Whether you're planning weekend getaways or cross-country adventures, taking the time to properly inspect, clean, and prepare your RV helps ensure a safe and stress-free trip. It’s also a good opportunity to review your RV insurance coverage.

Inspect Your RV Inside and Out

Start with a thorough walk-around of your RV to check for visible signs of wear or damage. Look for cracks, rust, or water damage on the exterior, especially around seams, windows, and roof vents. On the inside, check for signs of leaks, pests, or mold that may have developed over the winter.

Inspect tires for cracks, bulges, or worn treads. Tires can deteriorate even if the RV hasn’t been driven in months, so make sure they're properly inflated and safe for travel. Don’t forget to test your lights, blinkers, and brake systems as well.

Check Your RV’s Systems and Appliances

Reconnect and test your water, propane, electrical, and HVAC systems. Flush and sanitize the water system, especially if it’s been winterized. Check for leaks in the plumbing and ensure your water heater is functioning.

Inspect propane lines and appliances for leaks or other issues, and test the stove, refrigerator, and other systems you’ll rely on during your trip. Plug in the RV to test all of the electrical systems and recharge your batteries if needed.

Clean and restock your kitchen, bathroom, and emergency supplies. Replace expired food and medications, restock first-aid kits, and make sure you have essentials like flashlights, fire extinguishers, tools, and extra fuses on hand.

Double-Check Registration, Licenses, and Roadside Support

Before setting off on your spring travels, make sure all your documentation is up to date. Check the expiration dates on your vehicle registration, driver’s license (especially if a special class is required for your RV), and any applicable inspection or emissions certifications. If your RV hasn’t been on the road in a while, now is also the time to confirm your roadside assistance coverage. Make sure you have access to towing, battery jump-starts, tire changes, and fuel delivery—just in case.

Review Your RV Insurance Policy

Before you start your spring travels, take a moment to review your RV insurance policy. Make sure your coverage is up to date and that it reflects any changes you've made to the vehicle, such as new accessories or upgrades. Depending on how you use your RV—whether full-time, seasonal, or just for occasional trips—you may need different types of coverage, including collision, liability, roadside assistance, or personal belongings protection.

Spring is the perfect season for adventure, and your RV is your ticket to it all. With the right preparation and protection in place, you can hit the road knowing you’ve taken the steps to enjoy a safe, smooth, and memorable journey. If you’re not sure whether your current policy offers enough protection, contact us for a quick insurance review. We’ll help you make sure your RV is properly insured so you can travel with confidence all season long.

Is Your Home Ready for Severe Weather? How to Protect Your Property

Mon, 14 Apr 2025 14:49:34 GMT

Severe weather can strike at any time, bringing heavy rain, strong winds, hail, snow, or extreme heat that can damage your home. Preparing your property in advance can minimize potential damage, reduce costly repairs, and keep your family safe. Whether you’re dealing with hurricanes, tornadoes, blizzards, or thunderstorms, here are key steps to protect your home from severe weather.

Secure Your Roof and Gutters

Your roof is your home’s first line of defense against extreme weather. Inspect it regularly for missing or damaged shingles, cracks, or signs of wear. Loose or deteriorating shingles can allow water to seep inside, leading to costly damage. Consider reinforcing your roof with hurricane straps or impact-resistant shingles if you live in an area prone to high winds or hail.

Gutters and downspouts should be clear of debris to prevent water buildup. Clogged gutters can lead to roof leaks and water pooling around your home’s foundation, increasing the risk of flooding. Installing gutter guards can help keep leaves and debris out, allowing water to flow freely.

Reinforce Windows and Doors

High winds and flying debris can easily break windows and doors. Consider installing storm shutters, impact-resistant windows, or heavy-duty doors for added protection. If a storm is approaching and you don’t have storm-resistant windows, boarding them up with plywood can help prevent shattering. Sealing any gaps around doors and windows with weather stripping or caulk can also prevent water intrusion and improve insulation. This is particularly important for areas prone to hurricanes and extreme cold.

Trim Trees and Secure Outdoor Items

Overhanging tree branches can pose a significant risk to your home during storms. Strong winds or heavy snow can break branches, causing them to fall onto your roof, windows, or vehicles. Regularly trimming branches away from your home reduces the chances of storm-related damage.

Additionally, secure or store outdoor furniture, potted plants, grills, and decorations before a storm hits. High winds can turn unsecured items into dangerous projectiles that can break windows or damage siding.

Prepare for Flooding and Water Damage

Flooding can occur from heavy rainfall, hurricanes, or melting snow, leading to extensive damage. If you live in a flood-prone area, consider elevating appliances and electrical systems in your home. Installing a sump pump with a battery backup can help keep your basement dry during power outages.

Using sandbags and waterproof barriers around entry points can reduce the risk of floodwater entering your home. If your area is prone to flash floods, having an evacuation plan in place is crucial to ensure your family’s safety.

Check Your Home’s Insurance Coverage

Severe weather is unpredictable, but proactive home maintenance and preparation can help reduce risks. By reinforcing your roof, securing outdoor items, preventing water damage, and ensuring proper insurance coverage, you can protect your home and family from costly storm-related damage.

No matter how well you prepare, severe weather can still cause unexpected damage. Reviewing your homeowners insurance policy annually can provide peace of mind, ensuring you have adequate coverage for storms, flooding, and other natural disasters.

Contact us for a home insurance policy review. Our experts can help you understand your current coverage and recommend any necessary adjustments so that you can feel confident that your home is properly protected against severe weather.

Insurance Considerations When Expanding Your Business to a New Location

Mon, 14 Apr 2025 14:49:29 GMT

Expanding your business to a new location is an exciting step toward growth, but it also introduces new risks. From property protection to liability coverage, ensuring your business insurance policies align with your expansion is critical. Without the right coverage, unforeseen challenges—such as property damage, employee injuries, or legal issues—could put your investment at risk. Here’s what to consider from an insurance and risk management perspective when opening a new location.

Review and Update Your Business Insurance Coverage

Expanding to a new location changes your business’s risk exposure. Your current insurance policies may not automatically extend to the new site, and additional coverage may be required. Key policies to review and update include:

Commercial Property Insurance to protect your new location against physical damage from fire, vandalism, theft, or natural disasters. If you’re leasing, your landlord may require proof of coverage before signing a contract.
Commercial Liability Insurance to protect against claims related to third-party injuries or property damage. If customers, vendors, or visitors will be on-site, this policy is essential.
Workers’ Compensation Insurance to cover employee injuries on the job. If you’re hiring new employees at your new location, ensure compliance with local workers’ comp laws. This coverage is required in most states.
Cyber Liability Insurance to protect against data breaches and cyberattacks. If your expansion involves additional digital operations, such as online sales or customer databases, cyber liability insurance can help.

Each location has unique risks, so working with an insurance professional can help tailor coverage to your specific needs.

Consider Additional Coverage for Business Operations

If your expansion includes operations in a different state or municipality, insurance requirements may vary. Some states have different workers’ compensation laws, liability coverage minimums, or industry-specific insurance requirements. It’s important to review these regulations to ensure compliance and avoid penalties.

Additionally, some commercial leases require tenants to carry specific insurance policies, such as liability coverage or business interruption insurance. Carefully reviewing lease agreements and local regulations will help ensure your business is properly insured. Each business location presents different liability risks. A retail store may need more customer injury protection, while a manufacturing facility may require higher workers’ compensation coverage. Identifying specific liability exposures of your new location allows you to adjust your insurance policies accordingly.

Your expansion may also introduce new operational risks, requiring specialized coverage, including:

Commercial Auto Insurance to cover business-owned vehicles, or specialized coverage for employees using personal vehicles for work-related tasks.
Inland Marine Insurance to cover heavy equipment or machinery. This type of policy may be required to cover equipment or materials that are frequently transported between locations.
Business Insurance for general business coverage. Ensure your insurance policy is up-to-date. It's a good idea to review your policies annually.

Understanding how your operations change with expansion will help ensure you have the right insurance coverage in place to mitigate new financial risks.

Work with an Insurance Professional for a Smooth Expansion

Expanding your business is an exciting step, but it requires careful planning to avoid potential setbacks. By reviewing your insurance policies, evaluating liability risks, and ensuring compliance with local requirements, you can protect your investment and secure your business’s future.

Before you open the doors to your new location, contact us to review your commercial insurance coverage. Our team can help assess your risks and ensure you have the right protection in place, so you can expand with confidence.

Does Your Business Need Workers' Compensation Insurance?

Fri, 12 Jul 2024 19:46:48 GMT

Workers' compensation insurance is a fundamental aspect of running a business, providing vital protection for both employers and employees. This insurance covers medical costs, rehabilitation, and lost wages for employees who are injured or become ill at work. It also offers benefits to the employer, including legal protection and stability. Understanding whether your business requires workers' compensation insurance, and the benefits it offers, is crucial for maintaining a healthy, lawful, and productive workplace.

Benefits for Employees

For employees, the assurance that workers' comp insurance provides cannot be overstated. In the event of a workplace injury or illness, this insurance ensures that employees are not left to cope with the financial burden of medical bills and lost wages on their own. It facilitates access to necessary medical treatment and financial support during recovery, enabling a smoother return to work. This safety net is essential for employee welfare and satisfaction.

Benefits for Employers

From the employer's perspective, workers' comp insurance is equally beneficial. Firstly, it limits an employer's liability for work-related injuries and illnesses, protecting the business from potentially crippling legal costs and settlements. Moreover, it contributes to a safer work environment by encouraging employers to implement safety measures and health protocols to reduce the likelihood of workplace accidents. This can lead to improved employee morale and productivity, as workers feel safer and more valued.

State Laws and Requirements

It's important to note that laws regarding workers' compensation insurance vary significantly by state. Most states require businesses with employees to carry this insurance, but the specifics, such as the minimum number of employees, types of covered injuries, and exemptions, can differ. Non-compliance with state laws can result in fines, penalties, and the loss of the right to conduct business.

Navigating the Requirements

Given the complexity of state laws and the nuances of workers' compensation insurance, consulting with an insurance agent is advisable. An experienced agent can help you understand your state's requirements, evaluate your business's specific needs, and find a policy that offers comprehensive coverage. This professional guidance is invaluable in navigating the legal landscape and ensuring your business and employees are adequately protected.

Workers' compensation insurance is not just a legal requirement for many businesses; it's a critical component of a responsible and respectful employer-employee relationship. It offers peace of mind to workers and protects businesses from the financial and reputation damage that workplace accidents can cause.

Ensuring your business has the right workers' comp in place is not just about compliance; it's about commitment to the well-being of your employees and the long-term success of your enterprise. Contact us today to see how we can help.

Which Home Security Option Is Right for You?

Wed, 10 Jul 2024 19:37:57 GMT

Whether you live in an apartment building or a single-family home, there are security options available to help protect you, your family, and your property. Not sure which one is best for you? Take a look at these choices to help narrow down your search.

Solutions for Apartment Dwellers

While there may be fewer security options for those living in apartments than those who own a freestanding house, there are definitely ways you can take advantage of today’s technology to protect your home. When considering home security solutions, be sure to think about the following:

Cost and your budget
Contract requirements
User-friendliness
Ease of installation
Self-monitoring options
Internet requirements
Integration with smartphones and home hubs
À-la-carte elements to add on later
Adherence to apartment or condo rules
Portability if you move
Buyer reviews

Doorbell cameras and smart locks that can be controlled and viewed via your mobile device are by far the most popular with apartment residents. You can let in nannies and dog walkers without being home and keep an eye on your packages.

Other apartment options include door and window sensors. These sound an alarm when doors or windows are opened, giving you added reassurance if you live alone or worry about intruders in the night.

Consider these other common apartment security features:

Panic buttons
Loud sirens
Extreme temperature and water leak sensors
Carbon monoxide detectors
Outdoor cameras for balconies and patios
Motion sensor lighting

Single-Family DIY Home Security

Security for single-family homes isn’t that different from apartment security nowadays. This type of home security takes apartment-level features up a notch for larger properties and yards.

The biggest sellers for single-family homes are whole-house alarm systems, doorbell cameras, and smart locks. These function similarly to those used by apartment residents, as described above, and can be controlled remotely via smartphone. Cameras allow owners to view what’s happening on their property from afar, which is ideal if they’re away on vacation or if parents have left the kids in the care of a babysitter.

With more outdoor space to protect, security for single-family homes often includes more lighting options, such as motion sensors and photocell lighting that comes on automatically when it gets dark outside. These frequently deter would-be home intruders before they ever try a door or window. Another feature not often needed in apartments is a garage door monitor that can alert homeowners if the door has been left open or if someone tries to raise it.

Using Professional Security Companies

For both apartment and single-family security, working with a professional security company is often an option. Pricing is usually offered at different tiers, depending on the amenities provided.

If an alarm is triggered, the security company is immediately notified. They may investigate on their own, or they may work with local law enforcement to respond. Typically, they will call the home right away and stay on the phone if someone needs medical help or is in danger.

The pros of hiring a security monitoring company include:

Equipment is often included with a contract.
You get signage for your yard to deter intruders casing the property.
The company does the installation and any maintenance for you.
If you’re not home, there’s someone to respond to an alarm.

There aren’t many disadvantages to using security professionals. Outside of the additional cost, users cite paying for false alarms that bring the police as their only other chief complaint.

Finally, whatever method you choose, there is one more advantage to using some sort of home security. You may save on your home insurance or renter’s insurance. The amount you save may be enough to make the entire system worthwhile, in addition to the peace of mind it brings. Contact us today to review your home insurance needs.