Risks

From June 1 through November 30, the threat of hurricane to coastal areas is elevated and can result in property damage from high winds, driving rain, rising water and more.

Readiness

Windows and Shutters — Installing impact rated materials or shutters on all openings can help provide a defensive barrier against the threat of hurricane.

Seasonal Maintenance — Proactive maintenance of property can help against an impending storm. Trim weak or diseased tree branches, clear gutters of debris, inspect the seals around windows and doors, test the sump pump and back-up generator and inspect your roof for signs of wear and damage. It's also advised to inspect and test shutters well in advance of a storm.

Outdoor Furniture — With the threat of high winds, bring outdoor items inside or secure larger, heavier furniture and move to the ground level, if possible. Often furniture can either be damaged by wind or act as flying debris that causes damage to other property.

Doors — Garage doors are vulnerable openings, just like windows and doors. Be sure garage doors are fitted with the same shutter and protective devices as other openings. Also close interior doors when a storm is approaching to compartmentalize pressure and put less stress on the roof structure.

Emergency Planning — Be prepared to evacuate. Know the evacuation route and have a plan with your family as well as an emergency kit and fuel in your car.

Generator — Install a generator for emergency power to operate your home when there is an outage due to a storm. If installing a built-in generator, consider installing one that is dual use with natural gas and liquid propane. Follow the manufacturer's instructions when using the generator.

Remember

Our risk management and claims experts are here to help. In addition, the PlusOne Service Network is standing by with access to a team of fully vetted and qualified contractors, service providers and business partners who can help perform proactive installations or repairs or work on your home after a claim.

Risks

Winter weather can impact more than just the temperature in your home with possible challenges including frozen pipes, ice dams and loss of power.

Readiness

Pipes — Help protect pipes from the threat of freezing with insulation of the attic, outside walls and even the pipes themselves (using insulating sleeves). It's also advised to leave cabinets open and let faucets drip when temperatures are extremely cold. This helps circulate heat into vulnerable areas.

Windows, Doors and Exterior Openings — Seal cracks, holes and other openings with caulk or insulation to help create a barrier to cold air from outside.

Thermostat — Whether your away or home, keeping the thermostat at a reasonable, consistent temperature can help guard against freezing of pipes. Low temperature sensors and water shut off devices are helpful tools.

Fireplaces — Make sure your fireplace has an annual inspection and cleaning by a professional.

Roof and Gutters — To help avoid ice dams, ensure the attic is well insulated and ventilated and that gutters are clear. Heating cables can be added to the exterior edges of your roof or in gutters to help prevent the accumulation of ice.

Generator — Install a generator for emergency power to operate your home when there is an outage due to a storm. If installing a built-in generator, consider installing one that is dual use with natural gas and liquid propane. Follow the manufacturer's instructions when using the generator.

Remember

Our risk management and claims experts are here to help. In addition, the PlusOne Service Network is standing by with access to a team of fully vetted and qualified contractors, service providers and business partners who can help perform proactive installations or repairs or work on your home after a claim.

Risks

Hail storms have the potential to occur during spring, summer or fall months and can cause damage to automobiles, roofing, and other property.

Readiness

Roof — Ensure your roof has been maintained and has no damage in advance of a hailstorm. If your home is in an area vulnerable to hail, consider impact resistant roof shingles, storm shutters and exterior coverings.

Outdoor furniture — In advance of a storm, cover or take patio furniture or decorations inside.

Landscaping — Proactively remove weak or dead branches of trees so that they may not penetrate a roof or window during a hailstorm.

Automobiles — If there is potential for hail, move your car inside a garage. If inside cover is not available, use a tarp or even a heavy blanket to fully cover your vehicle.

Generator — Install a generator for emergency power to operate your home when there is an outage due to a storm. If installing a built-in generator, consider installing one that is dual use with natural gas and liquid propane. Follow the manufacturer's instructions when using the generator.

Remember

Our risk management and claims experts are here to help. In addition, the PlusOne Service Network is standing by with access to a team of fully vetted and qualified contractors, service providers and business partners who can help perform proactive installations or repairs or work on your home after a claim.

Risks

Wildfires are a risk in a number of states and can result in property damage as a result of windblown embers or being in the path of a rapidly spreading fire.

Readiness

Roof — Your roof is your biggest exposure in a wildfire event. Know your roof's composition and use class A-rated roof material with non-combustible coverings.

Attic Vents and Eaves — Cover attic vents and eave vents with metal wire mesh, no larger than 1/8 inch to keep embers out.

Vegetation — Trim or remove flammable vegetation from around your home, creating a perimeter of at least 30 feet of defensible space. Within this perimeter, use non-combustible materials such as gravel, brick or concrete.

Gutters — Regularly clean and remove debris from the roof and gutters.Regularly clean and remove debris from the roof and gutters.

Visibility — Ensure street signs and address numbers are highly visible to help firefighters and emergency responders easily find your property in the event of a wildfire.

Generator — Install a generator for emergency power to operate your home when there is an outage due to a wildfire. Use precaution and follow the manufacturer's instructions when using the generator.

Remember

Berkley One has teamed up with Wildfire Defense Services to provide response services to you and neighboring clients in wildfire prone regions.

Our risk management and claims experts are here to help. In addition, the PlusOne Service Network is standing by with access to a team of fully vetted and qualified contractors, service providers and business partners who can help perform proactive installations or repairs or work on your home after a claim.

Risks

Heavy rains and rising waters can create the possibility of flooding which can cause water damage to structures and personal property.

Readiness

Flood Zone — Know your flood zone and prepare for the potential for flooding, even if you don't live near the ocean. Rivers, streams and reservoirs can all experience flooding.

Sewers — Flooding can occur with excess rainfall or a blockage or failure of the drainage system. A sewer backflow valve can be installed to help prevent a return flow to your house.

Sump Pump — Ahead of a storm, make sure your sump pump is operational. Also ensure there is backup power for the sump pump via a generator or battery backup.

Gutters and Drains — Regularly maintain gutters and drains to keep them free of leaves and debris. French drains are an effective measure to help carry water away from your home's foundation.

Landscaping — Grade the landscaping around your home to direct excess water away from the foundation.

Generator — Install a generator for emergency power to operate your home when there is an outage due to a storm. If installing a built-in generator, consider installing one that is dual use with natural gas and liquid propane. Follow the manufacturer's instructions when using the generator.

Remember

Our risk management and claims experts are here to help. In addition, the PlusOne Service Network is standing by with access to a team of fully vetted and qualified contractors, service providers and business partners who can help perform proactive installations or repairs or work on your home after a claim.

Risks

Spring and summer weather can also bring pop up storms with heavy rain, strong winds, lightning and even hail.

Readiness

Gutters — Keep gutters clean. This action can help keep water away from the exterior and interior of your home.

Landscaping — Check for large limbs or trees that may be dead, hollowed or diseased and remove anything that is unsafe or has the potential to fall on your home or property. Clear out foliage and debris within your open window wells as these can act as a liner to prevent heavy rain from draining. Also ensure that landscaping is graded properly and slopes away from the foundation.

Outdoor Furniture — With the threat of high winds, consider your patio or deck furniture and move it inside or secure it in place. Often furniture can either be damaged by wind or act as flying debris that causes damage to other property.

Roof — Roof maintenance is an important part of weathering any storm. Ensure your roof shingles are securely fastened and framing is in good condition. If you are replacing your roof, consider impact resistant shingles.

Lightning protection — The ideal lightning protection system includes lightning rods, a surge arrestor and circuit breakers.

Generator — Install a generator for emergency power to operate your home when there is an outage due to a storm. If installing a built-in generator, consider installing one that is dual use with natural gas and liquid propane. Follow the manufacturer's instructions when using the generator.

Remember

Our risk management and claims experts are here to help. In addition, the PlusOne Service Network is standing by with access to a team of fully vetted and qualified contractors, service providers and business partners who can help perform proactive installations or repairs or work on your home after a claim.