Home Safety Archives - ALE Solutions

Safeguard Your Home this Wildfire Season

jessica.collette — Wed, 15 May 2024 11:00:13 +0000

Wildfire season typically runs from May to September, but according to the Western Fire Chiefs Association, this year’s wildfire season can begin as late as July and run through November.

This means you still have time to create a defensible space around your home and protect it by using fire resistant building materials. Home Hardening means using ignition-resistant materials on and around your home to help it withstand flying embers and radiant heat. Defensible Space is the buffer created by removing dead plants, grass, and weeds to help keep a wildfire away from your home.

Harden your home from wildfires

Roofs, chimneys, vents and windows, walls and decks, and rain gutter and water supply are areas of your home you can safeguard against fire. Focus on stopping potential flames from reaching your home, protect it from the heat, and block it from flying embers. Use the same ignition-resistant materials on patio covers as those on your roof.

Roof safeguarding tips:

Material choice: The roof is the most vulnerable part of your home. Homes with wood or shingle roofs are at high risk of being destroyed during a wildfire. Opt for composite, metal, clay, or tile roofing to resist fires.
Ember sealing: Close off gaps under roof tiles and shingles to block wind-blown embers.
Debris removal: Regularly clear leaves, pine needles, and other debris from the roof to prevent ignition.

Chimney safeguarding tips:

Chimney screening: Cover your chimney and stove pipe outlets with a non-flammable screen. Use metal screen material with openings no smaller than 3/8-inch and no larger than 1/2-inch to prevent embers from escaping and igniting a fire.
Keep closed seasonally: Close the fireplace flue during wildfire season when the chimney is not being used.

Vent and window safeguarding tips:

Mesh screening: Install 1/16-inch to 1/8-inch metal mesh over vents to block embers. Avoid fiberglass or plastic meshes, which can melt.
Advanced venting: Consider installing ember- and flame-resistant vents, known as WUI vents, for enhanced protection.
Dual-pane installation: Fit dual-paned windows with at least one tempered glass layer to withstand fire-induced breakage.
Size consideration: Limit the size and number of windows facing large vegetation areas to reduce radiant heat exposure.
Screen addition: Add screens to all operable windows to catch embers and reduce heat.

Wall & deck safeguarding tips:

Material selection: Avoid flammable siding. Preferred materials include stucco, fiber cement, or specially treated wood.
Full coverage: Ensure the selected materials extend from the foundation to the roofline for comprehensive protection.
Material selection: Avoid flammable siding. Preferred materials include stucco, fiber cement, or specially treated wood.
Full coverage: Ensure the selected materials extend from the foundation to the roofline for comprehensive protection.

Rain gutter & water supply safeguarding tips:

Regular cleaning: Keep gutters free from plant debris to prevent ember ignition.
Drip edge installation: Add a noncombustible metal drip edge to protect the roof’s edge from ember exposure.
Gutter guards: Use noncombustible gutter covers to keep out debris and reduce maintenance.
Hose availability: Install long garden hoses at your property that can reach all areas, including roofs and decks.
Supplementary water sources: Consider installing pumps for pools or wells to increase water availability during fires.

Create a defensible space from wildfires

This area, free from flammable materials and vegetation, significantly lowers the risk of fire reaching your property. It also gives firefighters a safer area to defend your property. You want to create and maintain 100 feet of Defensible Space from your home. This includes ensuring all combustible materials are located at least 30 feet away from your home, and grass maintains a maximum height of four inches.

One of the best ways to create a defensible space is landscape choices. You can incorporate fire-resistant plants in your landscaping to enhance your home’s wildfire defense.

Here are key plant traits to consider when choosing plants with fire prevention in mind:

Moisture content: Opt for plants with leaves that retain moisture, as they’re less likely to catch fire.
Waxes and oils: Plants high in waxes, oils, and resins can be more flammable.
Growth structure: Open-growth plants may have lower fire risk than dense ones.
Growth speed: Fast-growing plants need more space and maintenance.
Height potential: Know how tall a plant can get to ensure it fits your space.
Shedding habits: Plants that shed bark or leaves need frequent cleanup to reduce fire hazards.

You can adapt your wildfire preparedness season by season. Spring is the time to prepare for dry conditions.

Clear dead vegetation and create a buffer zone around your home.
Remove trees affected by pests to prevent spread. Insect activity increases in the summer.
Remove or cover cut wood to avoid attracting beetles and other pests. Keep it away from healthy trees.
Water valuable trees sparingly, following best practices, and plant new trees if there’s enough water.

Have a fire evacuation plan

Sometimes you do everything right, but when it’s time to go, go! When urgent evacuation is necessary, these steps will guide you to leave safely and quickly.

Review your evacuation plan checklist
Monitor wildfire updates
Put your “go-bag” in the car
Wear the right clothes
Get your pets ready to evacuate

Remember, if you’re part of a mandatory evacuation, do not return home until you are given the all-clear to do so by emergency responders.

If you need to file a homeowners’ claim for damage to your property due to a wildfire loss, contact your insurance provider. If it’s determined you need temporary housing, your adjuster will contact a temporary housing provider like ALE Solutions. Learn more about what ALE Solutions has to offer.

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5 Tips to Prevent a Christmas Tree Fire Hazard

jessica.collette — Mon, 11 Dec 2023 21:22:28 +0000

Christmas trees may be merry and bright, but they can also pose a serious risk of fire hazard in your home. U.S. firefighters respond to around 200 Christmas tree fires per year, according to the National Fire Research Laboratory at NIST.

Watch How Quickly A Christmas Tree Fire Spreads

Here are five steps to increase your Christmas tree fire safety this year.

Step 1: If selecting a live tree – pick one with fresh needles

Be picky! It’s essential to choose a tree with green, flexible needles that don’t easily fall off. This means the tree has been freshly cut and will last longer. When you put it in your tree-stand, make sure the stand has a large water reservoir. Check it every day to make sure the water level stays consistent. When the tree trunk stays moist, the needles will stay healthy and strong.

Step 2: Keep the tree watered daily

A dried-out Christmas tree in a home is a fire hazard waiting to happen — constant moisture is key, about a gallon of water a day. If you discover a lot of needles falling to the ground, that’s a sign the tree isn’t getting enough water. According to the NFPA, a parched tree can burn faster than a newspaper.

Step 3: Keep your tree away from heat sources

Finding the perfect spot in your house to place your tree can be tough. Ensure the tree is at least three feet away from any heat sources, including fireplaces, radiators, and heat vents. It should go without saying, but never use lit candles to decorate your tree! While it may look pretty, they can easily fall over as they melt, and no Christmas tree is fire retardant.

Step 4: Check the lights before you string them

A live, lit Christmas tree can look beautiful even without any ornaments decorating it. Only lights labeled for indoor use should be used. Examine all strands and keep an eye out for any frayed wires, broken bulbs, or loose connections. If you spot signs of damage or wear, the lights should be replaced. Make sure to turn the lights off before you go to bed or leave the house.

Step 5: Get rid of the tree after 30 days

To avoid a Christmas tree fire hazard, plan to take the tree out of your house four to five weeks after you get it. Never put tree branches or needles in an indoor fireplace. Call or check online to find out if your city offers free tree pickup as part of their regular garbage service. If so, simply drag your tree out to the curb on the designated pickup day.

At ALE Solutions, we understand being displaced from your home at any time is devastating, but during the holidays is especially difficult. ALE works with insurance adjusters at the First Notice of Loss to quickly move policyholders into temporary housing. For more information, please visit alesolutions.com

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Homeowner Fire Safety for the Holidays

jessica.collette — Mon, 20 Nov 2023 13:00:23 +0000

Thanksgiving is the first celebration of the holiday season. It’s a time to be with family, friends, and other loved ones to give thanks for being together. It’s also a time to eat! Thanksgiving is considered the biggest meal preparation day of the year. You’re chopping, peeling, sautéing, using the stove, the oven, the sink, and the counters. Maybe you even have a group of people in the kitchen with you. Things are hectic, people are going in and out, and nobody notices the smoke beginning to rise. What do you do?

Microwave and oven fires

You can handle flames that erupt in your microwave or oven in three easy steps:

Keep the door closed.
Turn off the appliance (unplug it if you can).
Let the fire burn out in the enclosed space.

Stovetop fires

If a fire starts, grab the lid or cookie sheet that you have handy and cover up the flames until they smother out.

Oil or grease fires

As with a stovetop fire, cover the flames with a metal lid or cookie sheet. Leave the cover on until it has cooled.

Turn off the heat source.
If it’s small and manageable, pour baking soda or salt on it to smother the flames.
As a last resort, spray the fire with a Class B dry chemical fire extinguisher.

When to call for help

Ask yourself these questions to determine if you need to call 911:

How large is the initial fire?
How fast is the fire growing?
What is feeding the fire?
Will anything in the proximity of the fire feed it?
Is anyone in the home that depends on you to evacuate?

If any of these factors are in play and you feel the situation is dangerous, assist others to get out of the house and then call 911.

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) states that cooking is the leading cause of home fires and fire injuries, accounting for 43 percent of all reported home fires! Note: The NFPA recommends avoiding the use of gas-fueled turkey fryers, even if properly used outside. The amount of cooking oil necessary to cook the turkey poses a significant safety risk.

Exercising fire safety is important every day of the year, not just Thanksgiving. Prepare ahead of time, and stay alert to help avoid disasters!

ALE Solutions is the leader in temporary housing, whether you’ve been displaced by a house fire or other natural disaster. Learn more here.

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Stay Ready & Safe: How To Use A Fire Extinguisher

jessica.collette — Mon, 09 Oct 2023 17:42:29 +0000

Did you know there are many different fire extinguisher types? They are known as fire extinguishers ABCDK. Many people have at least one fire extinguisher type in their home, but most don’t know how to use them properly or how to determine if they are in working order. Let’s discuss the different types, when they should be used, and where they should be stored in your home.

Types of Fire Extinguishers: ABCDK

There are several types of fire extinguishers in the United States, and they are classified based on the types of fires they can extinguish.

Class A extinguishers can put out wood, cloth and paper fires.
Class B extinguishers are for fires involving flammable liquids and gases.
Class C extinguishers are made to put out electrical fires.
Class D extinguishers are for putting out fires involving flammable metals.
Class K extinguishers are used in kitchens, because they can put out large oil and grease fires.

The majority of fire extinguishers used in households are types ABC, which are equipped to address a wide range of fires.

How to Use A Fire Extinguisher

Before fighting a fire, be sure your extinguisher can handle it. If the fire is bigger than you are, you probably will not be able to extinguish it. If this is the case, evacuate your home and call 911. Additionally, make sure the fire extinguisher type you are using is appropriate for the type of fire you are trying to put out. ABC fire extinguishers can handle kitchen fires, but they can also damage your stove. Alternatively, you can also put out a kitchen fire with baking soda or a pot lid if it is small (never use water).

Once you are ready to use your fire extinguisher, use the fire extinguisher PASS method.

Step 1: Pull the pin in the handle
Step 2: Aim the nozzle at the base of the fire
Step 3: Squeeze the trigger
Step 4: Sweep the extinguisher from side to side

It is important that you aim at the base of the fire to smother it at its roots. Once extinguished, be sure to monitor it so that it does not rekindle.

Fire Extinguisher Maintenance and Storage

Most fire extinguishers will work for 5 to 15 years, and they have indicators that tell you if they have enough pressure. If indicators are in the green zone, you have plenty of pressure. However, if indicators are not in the green zone, you will need to get it recharged by a fire extinguisher service professional.

You should recharge an extinguisher after you have used it, even if it is still in the green zone. Once a month, along with verifying pressure, you should make sure that the hose or nozzle are clear and in good condition, the locking pin is secure, and the body of the unit is free of dents and rust. Replace or get your fire extinguisher serviced if there is any damage or low pressure.

Where you store a fire extinguisher is also important. You will want to make sure that it is in a place that is easy to access since seconds matter when there is a fire. Place extinguishers near areas where fires are most likely to start, such as your kitchen. You should also have one for each level of your home. If you store your extinguisher in a closet, make sure it is placed in the front so it is easily accessible, and if the fire extinguisher is in the kitchen keep it a fair distance away from the stove.

To learn more about how to use a fire extinguisher, please contact your local fire department or visit NFPA.org.
To find and purchase a fire extinguisher near you, check your nearest big box store, such as Home Depot, Lowes, Walmart, Ace Hardware, and more.
To take a fire extinguisher class and get an online certification, go to OSHA Fire Safety Training.
To get your fire extinguisher inspected, contact your local fire department who can either perform the service for you or recommend you to another service.

You can learn more fire safety preparedness tips at our ALE Solutions blog.

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Safeguarding Your Home from Natural Disasters

jessica.collette — Thu, 15 Jun 2023 18:22:09 +0000

For many people, their home is their most valuable financial asset. However, depending on where you live, you may overlook the risk of a natural disaster destroying your home. A recent study by ATTOM Data Solutions mapped the risk each county in the United States faces from a range of natural disasters, then compared the county’s risk factors to home prices. The study found that home prices seemed to indicate that people overlook risk of natural disasters in otherwise desirable counties.

Here’s how to keep your home protected, no matter how much you paid for it.

Maintain the outside of your property

For floods: Homeowners living in flood-prone areas should keep the foundation moisture-constant to ensure that rainwater doesn’t percolate into the soil beneath the house. If foundation crawl spaces back up after a storm, consider fitting a backflow prevention valve with the assistance of a professional plumber.

For wildfires: Be sure to maintain your roof. Your roof is the most at-risk in a wildfire because of its size and orientation. Reduce or remove flammable vegetation around your home, use fewer flammable species, and clear all combustibles from your exterior space. In the defensible space, use noncombustible materials such as gravel, brick, or concrete, which is fire-resistant.

For hurricanes: Cut weak branches and trees that could fall on your house, and keep shrubbery trimmed. Make sure exterior doors are hurricane proof, and have a minimum of three hinges and a dead bolt lock that is at least one inch long.

Maintain the inside of your property

For floods: Replace carpeting with tiles, which are more flood-resistant. Install flood vents in foundation walls, garages, and other enclosed areas to allow water to flow through, drain out, and lower the risk of structural damage. Vents can also help lower your insurance rate. Flood-resistant insulation and drywall will help minimize damage and can be easily cleaned and sanitized.

For earthquakes: Anchor top-heavy or large furniture, like bookshelves or wardrobes, to prevent them from falling over during an earthquake. If they can’t be anchored, move them to areas of the home where they are less likely to cause injuries if they fall. Secure large fixtures and electronics such as ceiling fans, picture frames, televisions, etc. Latch cabinets to prevent content from falling out and secure your water heaters, which are connected to both water and gas lines.

For hurricanes: Install hurricane shutters, which can better withstand heavy rains and strong winds. Store your valuables in a safe, and essential documents inside zip-top bags in watertight storage containers. Equip yourself with a stand-by electrical source such as a generator in case there is a power outage. Surge protectors can also offer protection to your electrical devices against unexpected voltage spikes.

In the unfortunate circumstance your home does become inhabitable due to damage from a natural disaster such as a hurricane or wildfire, ALE Solutions has your back. Our team will find you immediate temporary housing at a hotel while we look for a more permanent place for you to stay while your home is being fixed. Learn more about our services here.

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7 Steps to Take After Returning Home from a Wildfire Evacuation

jessica.collette — Thu, 08 Jun 2023 12:00:30 +0000

You know how to prepare for a wildfire, but what about returning home after being evacuated? The danger isn’t over after the fire passes. Flash flooding and debris flows, structural damage, road instability, and damaged trees are just some of the dangers that still exist after a wildfire.

Firefighters and utility workers begin restoring fire damaged areas as soon as they can, but making the area safe for the public again can take multiple days. Homeowners should stay out of the evacuation area until fire officials say it’s safe to return. It’s extremely important to be aware of the hazards and know what to look for when the evacuation order is lifted.

Here’s some safety steps to take after returning home from a wildfire evacuation, and determining whether your house is in livable condition or if you need to file a claim with your insurance company and obtain temporary housing.

Step 1:
Return home during daylight hours. Be aware that wildfires leave behind a lot of smoke and ash in the air that can cause eye, nose, skin, and throat irritation which can cause coughing and other health effects. Children and people with asthma, COPD, heart disease, or who are pregnant are especially at risk for inhaling smoke and ash. Limit how much ash you breathe in by wearing an N95 respirator.

Step 2:
Before inspecting your home, first check for the smell of gas, which has a distinctive “rotten egg” odor. Turn off power until you’ve completed your inspection. If you or someone else shut off the gas during the evacuation, don’t turn it back on! Contact your gas company or another qualified professional to perform a safety inspection before the gas service is restored and gas appliance pilots are re-lit.

Step 3:
Unplug or turn off all electric appliances to avoid overloading circuits and fire hazards when power is restored. Simply leave a single lamp on to alert you when power returns. Turn your appliances back on one at a time when conditions return to normal. Then check for damaged household electrical wiring and turn off the power at the main electric switch if you suspect any damage and consult with an electrician.

Step 4:
Don’t drink or use water from the faucets in your home until emergency officials say it is okay; water supply systems can be damaged and become polluted during wildfires or as a result of subsequent post-fire flooding. Rely on bottled water during this time. As for food, discard any that’s been exposed to heat, smoke, flood waters, or soot. Food that was in the freezer can be used if it still has ice crystals on it. If not, discard it.

Step 5:
Animals fleeing for safety from the wildfire may have taken refuge in your home. As you inspect your home with a battery-powered flashlight, speak loudly and make tapping noises with a stick to give notice that you are there. If you find a rodent, coyote, snake, or other animal who won’t willing evict the premises, contact the SPCA.

Step 6:
During clean up, protect yourself against ash by wearing gloves, long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and shoes and socks to protect your skin. Wear goggles to protect your eyes. Wash off any ash that gets on your skin or in your eyes or mouth as soon as you can.

Step 7:
Determine if the house is in livable condition. Check for structural damage, unstable flooring, loose or dangling power lines near your home, water damage, etc. Here’s an extensive checklist from the American Red Cross.

To file a homeowners’ claim, contact your insurance provider. If your insurance adjuster determines you need temporary housing, they will contact a temporary housing provider like ALE Solutions, the largest temporary housing provider for displaced families. Learn more of what ALE Solutions has to offer here.

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May is Electrical Safety Month: Are You Plugged into the Latest Facts?

jessica.collette — Wed, 10 May 2023 20:58:12 +0000

Since the mid-1990s, May has been known as National Electrical Safety Month. Introduced by the Electrical Safety Foundation International, the goal is to bring awareness to the public about home electrical safety. According to the ESFI, electrical incidents cause 43,900 home fires and result in $1.47 billion in property damage each year.

While we rely on electricity to enhance our daily lives, it also comes with hidden dangers that need to be addressed inside and outside of the home.

In the Home:

Electrical cords are one of the biggest safety hazards. Never yank an electrical cold from a wall, especially when it’s in use (think lamp, toaster oven, vacuum cleaner). Always replace damaged or loose electrical cords, which is a fire hazard. Don’t attach damaged cords to extension cords, which shouldn’t be used as permanent outlets. By running an extension cord across doorways or under carpets, you run the risk of damaging the insulation and causing shocks.

Avoid overloading outlets, which can trip circuits and blow a fuse. Know where your circuit box is located and how to operate the switches. Sitting lamps should be placed on level surfaces away from things that can easily catch fire like drapes. The bulbs you use should match the owner’s manual recommended wattage.

For households with infants and toddlers, place safety caps on all unused outlets and make sure they know at an early age not to touch electrical outlets or appliances (especially with wet hands).

Outside the Home:

While many homeowners prefer DIY home-based projects, it’s best to consult with a licensed electrician for any electric projects. If you feel you can handle an outdoor project yourself, “Always Look Up,” to be alert to where power lines are located and know where they are hanging, whether while working on the roof, trimming trees, or painting the siding.

To avoid coming into contact with power lines, have a professional tree-cutting service trim branches that might fall on electric wiring. If using a ladder for your outdoor project, keep it at least 10 feet away from power lines. Never touch anyone or anything in contact with a downed wire. Power lines may be live, so report downed wires to authorities immediately and stay a safe distance away.

Did you know there’s a free service called “Before You Dig” (8-1-1) that can tell you where your underground utilities are located? This is a fantastic resource to utilize before conducting any digging on your property.

To prevent an electrical shock, make sure all your outside electrical receptacles are GFCI (ground-fault circuit interrupter) protected.

Finally, you should educate your children about electrical dangers inside and outside of the home. Explain to them about power lines, staying away from outlets and electrical equipment and cords, and teach them the dangers of “green boxes” (substations and transformers) and not to play on them.

Accidents happen and sometimes homes are damaged or devastated by electrical-related disasters. After receiving First Notice of Loss from an insurance adjuster, ALE Solutions works quickly to find temporary housing for the policyholder. For more information, visit alesolutions.com.

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3 Reasons Why You Should Have Rental or Homeowners Insurance

jessica.collette — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 12:00:23 +0000

Have you ever moved into a new home—rental or owning—and decided to forgo the insurance for living there? If so, you’re not alone. Only 57 percent of renters in the United States have it, which is actually up from 42 percent in 2018, according to a 2020 survey by the Insurance Information Institute.

You incur a lot of expenses when moving to a new location (packing materials, movers, furniture, appliances, and much more). Although renters and homeowners insurance isn’t required in any state, it is legal for your landlord or management company to require that you and other tenants in your apartment building or house have it. You’ll see the required terms in your lease agreement. However, when it’s not a requirement, many renters and homeowners opt out of it, believing it is an unnecessary expense, and something they will never need to use.

Here are three reasons you should always purchase a rental or homeowners’ policy, review it annually for policy coverage needed, and never have a lapse in coverage.

It’s more affordable than you think
The cost of renters insurance varies by state, but the national average comes to just $18 a month, or $214 a year. If there’s damage to your rental from a fire or a break-in, your landlord is responsible only for repairs to the building, not for the cost of fixing or replacing your personal property.

Renters insurance will pay for your personal belongings up to the policy limit. It can also cover your possessions if loss or damage occurs outside your apartment, such as items stolen from your car or when traveling.

It provides liability coverage
Let’s say someone is visiting your home and they slip and fall. Or UPS delivers a package to your residence and your dog bites the delivery drive. It’s likely you will be sued for their injuries and missed work. If your home is burglarized, you can make a claim for assets** stolen. Most liability coverage included in your rental insurance covers you up to $300,000.

It covers temporary living expenses
If a disaster* occurs and there is damage to your home that forces you to move elsewhere temporarily, such as a hotel or another rental unit, your rental or homeowners’ policy coverage can pay for those additional living expenses including: pet boarding, delivery of rental furniture, housewares, appliances, and the cost of meals.

How ALE Solutions can help

When natural disasters or other unexpected events occur, ALE Solutions finds quality housing that fits each unique family’s needs. Our Relocation Specialists accommodate pets, disabilities, and other special needs to make sure every family member is comfortable.

ALE Solutions also orders and coordinates the delivery of furniture, housewares, and appliances to the temporary residence, so policyholders can focus on other tasks.

Temporary housing may include single-family homes, townhomes, apartments, mobile homes, furnished corporate suites, and hotel rooms. All can be provided furnished to suit your needs.

We offer:

Two-way text communication with policyholders to make it easier for them to get the support they need. An ALE Solutions representative responds to messages 24/7/365.
ALE Solutions manages the needed lease extensions based on repair duration and progress, and reminds policyholders of final move-out tasks.
Special accommodations for pets and special needs so every family member is considered.
Cost-effective hotel and temporary housing options close to the family’s home, so they can oversee repairs frequently and be close to their kids’ schools.
MyALE HOME—The industry’s first app designed specifically for displaced homeowners allows policyholders to manage all aspects of their temporary housing stay from their mobile device.
And much more!

Remember to be prepared before a disaster strikes. Make sure you have a record of your possessions, as well copies of receipts for high-cost items, in the cloud or a safe place outside your home. You can learn how to take a home inventory here.

It’s easy to shop for renters or homeowners’ insurance. You can compare quotes at online insurance brokers or you can work with an independent insurance agent who can get quotes from several carriers. Just make sure you purchase coverage! It will be one of the smartest investments you ever make.

* Homeowners and renters’ insurance do not cover damage caused by natural disasters, such as floods or earthquakes. If you’re at risk for these events, you’ll need to purchase separate policies for that coverage.

** If you have substantial assets, you should also consider umbrella liability coverage, which can give you a higher amount of protection than a renters policy.

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Spring Cleaning & Home Safety Checklist

jessica.collette — Thu, 23 Mar 2023 22:07:05 +0000

Spring has officially sprung! Now is the time to open the windows and let some fresh air in to breathe new life into your home after a long winter. Careful inspection around your home to detect problems can mean the difference between a minor repair, or severe damage with help from a professional. With care and safety in mind, we have put together a spring cleaning checklist to help make seasonal home maintenance easy, fast, and efficient.

Air Conditioning:

Start with your air conditioning unit. Check the unit now, so it will be in good, working condition before the summer heat begins. Check all hoses for any splits or leaks. Change the filter and verify that your drain pans are clear. If you have a service contract with a local HVAC company, perhaps have them stop by for a tune-up.

Your Roof:

Using binoculars, look for any visible problems such as missing, shifted, or cracked shingles. If you are able to repair yourself, secure with loose fasteners or nails, as water can penetrate the roof if the nails have moved out of place. When inspecting your roof, also check for bent or tilted vent pipes, and any cracks in your chimney.

Exterior Inspection:

Check the outer walls for problems under the eaves and near any downspouts. Look for openings in wood siding that could allow in bugs, birds or critters to get into your attic or walls. Also inspect the exterior foundation. If you notice cracks any cracks, schedule an appointment with a professional to look at and possibly repair.

Lawn & Garden:

Remove any debris and prune any dead limbs from your trees. Having well-maintained trees on your property can go a long way towards keeping you and your property safe during a storm. To prevent weeds and insects in your lawn, apply some herbicide.

Attic & Basement:

Check your attic and basement for signs of any insects, rodents or other pests. If you notice any insects, such as termites, call an exterminator. While in the basement, look for cracks at the bottom of the concrete walls. If there are any, call a professional to review.

Fire Safety:

Change batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors (this should be done twice a year), and make sure units are free of dust. If you have any fire extinguishers, check their expiration dates and replace if needed. Make sure all family members know how to use a fire extinguisher, and review emergency escape plans.

Windows:

Check all windows for any leaks (inside and out). Aside from dirt and water, leaks can let in hot air and cool indoor air escape. Use caulk and weatherproofing strips as necessary to seal your windows.

Plumbing:

Check both the indoor and outdoor plumbing for any leaky faucets or clogged drains. Look under sinks to ensure there are no connection issues with the seals. Also make sure all washing machine hoses, dryer and water heater have no cracks. Additionally, remember to clean your dryer vent.

Deck:

Your deck should be cleaned at least once a year to help extend its life and to identify any needed repairs, which may include re-sealing it.

Grill:

Before using your grill for the first time this year, check that all hoses are securely connected and the burner jets for clogs. If you own a charcoal grill, remove and properly dispose of any ash or grease residue.

ALE Solutions is your resident expert in temporary housing. Serving you 24/7/365 with live assistance nationwide. For more information, please visit alesolutions.com

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5 Ways to Document Your Home Inventory

jessica.collette — Wed, 15 Feb 2023 16:39:42 +0000

We take precautions by purchasing a home insurance policy, installing smoke detectors, building strong windows, and checking our pipes. But, when it comes to documenting our home items, we aren’t as prepared as we should be.

The fact is the items in our home are all valuable in some way, whether it’s jewelry, photographs, clothes, furniture, or financial documents. The best plan of action to protect your home inside and out is to create a home inventory of all your belongings.

Obtaining a comprehensive home inventory:

Ensures you have the necessary amount of insurance coverage.
Identifies items that have limited coverage. You can then decide to purchase additional coverage to insure items for their full value.
Allows an evaluation on whether to insure your property and contents at “replacement cost” or “actual cash value.”
Results in a higher appraisal for your home, since it documents and provides proof of home improvement projects, which add value to your home.
Verifies the condition of your assets before moving or placing them in storage in case of loss or damage.

There are five main ways to document what’s in your home.

Start room by room
Documenting your belongings may seem like a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. The best way to do this is to start at one end of your home and work to the other end. Go room by room. When you’re finished, go to your garage and then move to the exterior of your home.

Video your belongings
Creating a video of your entire home provides proof that the belongings are part of your residence. Speak to the camera while you video everything, so the insurance company knows which items you are documenting. Make sure you include the garage and any other buildings on your property that are listed in your homeowner’s policy.

Take photographs
Photographing your items is another way to document your possessions for insurance purposes. Take clear pictures of everything you want to be covered. When you print them out, document what the item is and where it can be found in your home.

Create a written list
This process is similar to creating a financial inventory: start by writing down everything you want to be insured. List where the item is in your home and what it is. Include serial numbers and model numbers if applicable. You can then give a copy to your insurance agent.

Know when to bring in a professional
If you own one-of-a-kind or irreplaceable items, it’s best to bring in a professional appraiser or hire a reputable company to compile a home inventory for you. A third party brings credibility, saves time, and can provide the most accurate accounting of your personal items.

Finally, remember an insurance claim requires a detailed list of all the items destroyed, damaged, or stolen. Proper documentation ensures a faster and smoother claims process. It will also maximize your insurance reimbursement.

In fact, you must provide documented proof of ownership to receive a settlement covering the full extent of the loss. According to the National Association of Public Insurance Adjusters, most policyholders do not realize that the burden of proof rests with them.

Whatever documentation you gather, whether by yourself or through a professional, you should keep copies in a safe deposit box, with a relative or close friend, with your insurance agent, or upload it to an online file storage service like DropBox, Google Drive, Apple iCloud, or Microsoft OneDrive. If you have a fireproof safe, keep a copy of your documentation there for safekeeping.

Need help documenting your belongings? Download this complimentary list.

If and when you need to secure temporary housing, turn to ALE Solutions, the largest temporary housing provider for displaced families.

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