Easement Education Series: Insurance for Property Owners
HCF is grateful for Charleston's incredible community of preservation-minded property owners, many we have the pleasure of knowing through our easement and covenant program. To support property owners, the Foundation has developed a series of programs to provide more insight and connection to preservation professionals.
The first session focused on insurance, with a panel of local insurance executives: Jules Anderson, of Anderson Insurance Advisors, John Bressan, of Helm Risk Advisors, and Jay Katz, of PURE Insurance. The panelists discussed insurance market trends, challenges the insurance industry is facing today, and how homeowners can implement safety and maintenance mechanisms to help mitigate risks to their homes.
Below are a few tips shared by the panelists:
General Home Safety:
- Install an electrical checkup device, such as Ting (check with your insurance provider to see if they provide them to clients)
- Install a monitored fire and burglar alarm system
- Install a lightning protection system
- Install a backup generator
- Automatic water shut-off devices can be installed to prevent water damage inside the house.
Reducing Risk of Flood Damage:
- Install proper flood vents to protect your foundation during floods to allow flood water to flow through a crawlspace, or garage, preventing hydrostatic buildup from the flood water.
- Ensure that the soil around the home is properly graded so that water does not pool at the foundation of the house.
- Elevate mechanical systems where possible. In areas of repeat flooding, it may be necessary to elevate historic structures. Guidance from the City can be found HERE.
Hurricane Safety:
- Install impact protection, such as storm windows, shutters, or storm panels, to protect openings
- If a roof requires complete replacement, install quality roofing underlayment to provide additional protection
- Trees cut back, away from home and roof
- Make an inventory of your belongings — a simple video tour with your phone can be effective!
HCF will host its next Easement Education program this fall to explore Historic Tax Credits. Are you interested in learning more about our Easement and Covenant Program? Visit our website HERE.
