Pat’s prevention tips and advice
Avoid a potty mouth.
A sewer backup can definitely ruin your evening—and it can test anyone’s patience. So why not prevent it by installing a backwater valve or a sump pump? Sure, it’s kind of disgusting, but it’s not that hard to do and it’s nothing compared to the inconveniences of a backup, even a small one. While you’re at it, check to make sure you’re insured for that—if not, you can add it to your policy.
Take stock.
You go shopping you seem to bring back even more stuff? Three to four CDs here, a new trumpet there, a 28,000-BTU BBQ . . . and that was just last week. If I were you, I’d make myself a little list. That way, if everything you bought over the last ten years is stolen or destroyed, you’ll at least be comforted by knowing that your insurer will give you enough to replace all your treasures.
Cracks in your foundation? Have them checked. Now.
After spending the last 10 years watching TV in your basement, determined to focus on anything but the growing crack in your foundation, don’t be surprised to hear the “drip, drip, drip” of disaster one unlucky evening. Before you end up treading water as your remote control floats by, remember: get your foundation and roof cracks checked—it’s always easier to check it out than to clean it up.
Tell your insurer about that new extension that you’re so proud of.
In a fit of creative frenzy, you decide you can’t live without an extension to the house to make room for a workshop and solarium. You tell yourself that, after all, your happiness is worth at least $50,000. Plus, it’s beautiful and your house will increase in value, right? But, if in your excitement, you forget to talk to your insurer, don’t be disappointed if you aren’t protected for the full amount of your investment.
Honesty is always the best policy.
It might be tempting to avoid more expensive insurance premiums by “forgetting” to mention to your insurer that your kid sometimes takes the car out for a spin. But hiding things from your insurer is never a good idea—if Junior gets into a fender bender and they discover he’s driving his parents’ car, you might not receive all the protection to which you would normally be entitled.
Don’t cuddle up to just anyone.
When you’re stuck in gridlock, you can honk all you want, but no one’s going anywhere. Tailing the car in front of you doesn’t make you go any faster, either—you’re more likely to end up with documented responsibility for an accident in your insurance file. And you won’t be any further ahead then!
You better shop around.
For the last three to four weeks you have been harassing three to four car dealers like a pro—you’ll settle for nothing but lowest price, the best options and your FAVOURITE colour . . . until finally, one day, you find it: your perfect car. But then, just before taking possession of your sweet new ride, you call your insurer only to discover that—surprise!—the insurance is more expensive than you thought. It’s a good idea to shop around for insurance . . . but of course doing so the night before you take possession won’t leave you much of a choice.