As spring approaches and the days lengthen, it’s time once again to “spring forward” with Daylight Savings Time (DST). As we prepare to set our clocks ahead, gaining an extra hour of daylight in the evenings, there’s more to this biannual time shuffle than just losing an hour of precious sleep. This change can impact our home and insurance needs.
Why Do We Have DST?
First, why do we even have daylight saving time? During the warmer months, clocks are adjusted forward by one hour to extend evening daylight and “save” energy. Essentially, it’s all about making better use of daylight during the longer days of spring and summer. Sounds good, right? More daylight means more time for outdoor activities and soaking up the sun after a long winter hibernation.
DST and Homeowners Insurance
But hold up – what does all this have to do with homeowners insurance? With spring’s arrival, you may be ready to dive into property maintenance, from gardening to DIY projects. But outdoor activities also mean increased accident risks. Longer evenings invite outdoor gatherings, but they can lead to accidents like fires or injuries. Daylight saving time gives an extra hour of daylight for outdoor activities, but it also brings added responsibility.
Important Tips to Help You Make the Most of the Transition:
1. Brighten Up Your Home
With daylight lasting longer into the evening, now is the perfect time to evaluate your home’s lighting. Well-lit pathways and entryways not only enhance curb appeal but also deter intruders and reduce the risk of accidents. Consider installing outdoor motion-sensor lights to improve visibility and security around your property.
2. Inspect Your Property
Take a stroll around your home and yard to identify any potential hazards or maintenance issues. Addressing these issues now can help prevent accidents – as well as prevent costly repairs down the line.
3. Review Your Policy
Take a few minutes to review your homeowners insurance policy and make sure you understand what is covered and what isn’t. Make sure your coverage limits are sufficient to rebuild or repair your home and replace your belongings in the event of a total loss. Consider adding endorsements for specific risks not covered by your standard policy.
Pro Tip: Take advantage of the extra daylight to update your home inventory. Documenting your belongings and their value is important for filing an insurance claim in the event of theft, fire, or other covered losses. Be sure to keep digital copies of receipts, photos, and appraisals in a secure location or cloud storage for easy access.
If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to your insurance agent.
4. Review Home Security Measures
As the days grow longer, make sure your home security systems are up to date. It’s a good time to check the batteries in your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms. You could also consider investing in a more comprehensive home security system, which may qualify you for discounts on your homeowners insurance premiums
5. Prepare for Severe Weather
With spring often comes unpredictable weather, including storms and high winds. Take proactive steps to safeguard your home against damage by trimming tree branches, securing outdoor furniture, and reinforcing windows and doors. Review your homeowners insurance policy to ensure you have adequate coverage for weather-related events.
While losing an hour of sleep might not be ideal, the extra daylight it brings can be a welcomed change, especially after a long winter. And by taking proactive steps to safeguard your home and review your insurance coverage, you can enjoy the longer days with peace of mind.