The first subarctic storm has already wreaked havoc throughout the country. If you live in an apartment, you know the headaches that come with winter’s wrath, especially in areas that rarely see cold temperatures, like Texas. So here are some tips and reminders to keep you warm this season.
This is the time of year for roasting chestnuts over an open fire or, you know, at least enjoying some downtime in front of the TV and not having to make emergency phone calls about a broken furnace. You have better things to do over the holidays besides shivering in a cold apartment and waiting for furnace repairs. To prevent this from happening, run the heat a few days before the extreme weather hits to ensure it works. That way, you’ll learn early if there is a problem. Never turn off the heat, for it is essential to keep it on to ensure your pipes will not freeze. Keep the heat on at least 60 degrees.
It will help once the temperatures drop below freezing to drip interior pipes, so they won’t freeze and burst once it warms back up. This problem occurs in southern states since most have not weatherized the outside pipes. If you are going on a trip and have access, turn off the water entirely. Just in case pipes burst while you are away.
ResidentShield renter’s insurance reminds you of the serenity that good insurance coverage offers to all policyholders. You have full coverage in the event of weather-related issues. This policy watches over three areas: liability (if someone slips and falls on your property), its contents, and the inside of the property. Your landlord’s insurance covers any structural damage.
Remember, you will need to take a few steps if your property is damaged during the winter season: Take photos of the damage and start a claims process as soon as possible—call your insurer or fill one out online or by mobile app. Do whatever you can to prevent further damage, but don’t start any work until someone from your insurance company has inspected the damage.
Also, consider replacement cost versus actual cash value (ACV). Please consider upgrading your coverage from ACV to replacement cost, as the ACV will cover you for the damaged item based on its price at that time. Specifically, if you bought a new iMac desktop computer for $2000 a few years ago, now it may only be worth $1000. So, with ACV coverage, you will only receive that amount. But if you have replacement cost coverage, your payment will be sufficient to purchase a new item like the one you lost.
Be alert for signs of rodent or pest infestations. Winter is a prime time for these unwanted guests to make themselves at home. Set traps or use rodenticide (practice safety: make sure it is out of the reach of children and pets) and inform the landlord or property manager at the first sign of a pest infestation.
We hope you have a safe and warm winter season.
