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A Costly Lesson from the Recent Eastern Washington Wildfires

  • chrisbyler
  • 3 days ago
  • 2 min read

The recent wildfires in Eastern Washington remind us that disasters don't always happen when we're home.


A friend of mine here in Seattle told me yesterday about his aquaintance who was away on business and owned a home near Spokane, It fell within the fire evacuation area. Fortunately, the home survived the fire with only minor damage.


But when the homeowner contacted their insurance company to file a claim, they were told the damage might not be covered because the home had been vacated for more than 90 days.


Imagine if the house had been a total loss like some neighboring properties.

It would have been a devastating financial situation.


What Every Homeowner Should Know

Many homeowners don't realize that some insurance policies have limitations or special requirements for homes that are vacant or unoccupied for extended periods. Every policy is different.

If you're planning to:

  • Spend the winter in Arizona or Florida

  • Travel internationally

  • Leave your second home vacant

  • Move out before selling your home


Take these simple steps before you leave:

✅ Contact your insurance company and explain how long your home will be unoccupied.

✅ Ask whether your current policy provides full coverage during that time.

✅ Find out if there are any requirements, such as regular inspections or Homewatch visits.

✅ Get any changes or confirmation in writing.


Peace of Mind While You're Away

At Seattle Area HomeWatch Services, we perform professional home inspections for absentee homeowners, snowbirds, second-home owners, and frequent travelers throughout the greater Seattle area.


Our detailed tours, complete with photographs and written reports, can help identify problems early and provide documentation that many homeowners find valuable while they're away.


If you'll be leaving your home for an extended period, don't wait until an emergency to discover what your insurance policy does—or doesn't—cover.

Enjoy your travels knowing someone is keeping a watchful eye on your home.



 
 
 

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