The Most Common Homeowners Insurance Claims — and How to Prevent Them
When most people think about homeowner’s insurance claims, they picture major disasters — a fire tearing through the house or a hurricane taking off the roof. While those events do happen, most claims actually come from more everyday issues. Knowing what the most common types of claims are — and what you can do to prevent them — can save homeowners time, stress, and money down the road.
Recent insurance data shows that roughly one in 18 homes will file a claim each year, and nearly all of those claims involve property damage rather than liability. The top causes are wind and hail damage, water damage from leaks or frozen pipes, and fire or lightning losses. Although theft and liability claims occur less frequently, they can still be costly when they happen.
Wind and hail damage consistently rank as the number one cause of homeowners insurance claims, making up about 40% of all reported losses nationwide. These events can lead to roof leaks, broken siding, and damaged windows. Water damage and freezing losses are close behind, accounting for roughly one in four claims. Burst pipes, roof leaks, or appliance malfunctions can lead to thousands of dollars in repairs. Fires and lightning are less common but far more expensive, often resulting in tens of thousands of dollars in damage per claim.
Because these types of losses are both frequent and costly, it pays to be proactive. For wind and storm damage, homeowners should inspect their roofs regularly and replace missing shingles or worn flashing before the next storm hits. Trimming overhanging tree branches and cleaning gutters can also reduce the chance of damage. In areas that see severe weather, impact-resistant roofing materials are worth considering.
When it comes to water damage, prevention starts with maintenance. Insulating exposed pipes in winter, checking appliance hoses for cracks, and monitoring your plumbing system can go a long way toward avoiding leaks and bursts. During freezing temperatures, keep your heat on — even if you’re away — and let faucets drip slightly to prevent frozen pipes. Many homeowners are also installing smart leak detection devices that automatically shut off water if a leak is detected.
Fires remain one of the most devastating types of claims, but also one of the most preventable. Make sure smoke detectors are installed on every level of the home and tested regularly. Keep chimneys, furnaces, and dryer vents clean, and use caution with space heaters and candles. Surge protectors can help protect electronics during lightning storms.
While theft and liability claims are less common, it’s still worth taking precautions. Simple steps like locking doors and windows, adding motion sensor lights, and keeping pathways clear of ice or tripping hazards can help prevent accidents and losses. Home security systems not only provide peace of mind but may also qualify for insurance discounts.
Finally, it’s smart for homeowners to review their insurance coverage each year. Home rebuilding costs have risen sharply in recent years, and a policy that was adequate five years ago might now fall short. Maintaining good records of home improvements and repairs can also make the claims process smoother if a loss occurs.
At Boufford Insurance, we know that the best claim is the one you never have to file. By understanding the most common types of losses — and taking practical steps to prevent them — you can better protect your home, your belongings, and your peace of mind. Our team is here to help you review your coverage, identify potential risks, and make sure you have the protection you need for every season.
