Homeowner’s Insurance and Firework Damage
There’s no better way to celebrate the 4th of July than with some fireworks, but how do they fit into your home insurance policy?
Just a few days from now, Independence Day will be upon us. This means you’ll start seeing fireworks lighting the night sky soon enough. It’s common sense to use extra caution when firing off fireworks, especially when considering your homeowner’s insurance policy.
According to the National Fire Protection Agency, Independence Day (July 4th) is the most common day for home fires and 50% of these fire accidents are caused by fireworks. As a homeowner, how do you protect yourself?
Familiarize yourself with your homeowner’s insurance policy
Homeowners insurance is a type of policy that protects you financially when your home or property is damaged. However, there are limitations to this coverage. Certain types of damages are not included in the policy which means that you’ll have to pay for the costs of repair.
Insurance companies always investigate the cause and origins of fires to determine the damage and if the policy covers it. If the fireworks were used for legal purposes, then the damage is covered by the policy but the same couldn’t be said if the fireworks were used illegally or used to intentionally cause damage. Insurance companies do not pay for damages that were incurred legally or intentionally.
What’s covered by your homeowner’s insurance?
If it’s found that the damage was caused by an accident, here are the usual things that are covered by your insurance.
- Injury – your coverage likely covers any medical bills if others were injured during the accident. But if you’ve harmed yourself, then your medical bills aren’t covered. If that’s the case, you can use your health insurance.
- Property damage – the coverage also includes damage to your neighbor’s home.
Although the display of fireworks is part of the American tradition during Independence Day, they can still turn a happy day into a tragedy. Take the proper precautions to keep your home and your family safe.
Lorraine Carli, spokesperson for the National Fire Protection Association says that there are no ways to use consumer fireworks safely. There are always risks if you are lighting them in your backyard. If you can, it may be better to appreciate the firework displays done by the professionals.
If you are not sure about your coverage, it is best to call your provider and ask for a rundown on the things covered by your homeowner’s insurance policy. London Insurance Agency offers several insurance services including homeowner’s insurance. Our agents do not only let you sign the paperwork but most importantly, they explain to you all the things you want and need to know about your policies and how far they can stretch.
Give us a call or pay us a visit and our capable agents will be happy to serve you.
