Vacation Gone Wrong: What If Your Home Is Damaged While You’re Away?

Picture this: You just got back from a week at the cabin up north. As you pull into your driveway, you notice your roof has been torn apart by a storm. Or maybe you walk into your basement to find it’s flooded from a burst pipe.

Unfortunately, this happens to Michigan homeowners every summer—and many don’t know what to do next. Worse, insurance companies use your absence as an excuse to deny or delay claims.

At Advocate Claims Services, we specialize in helping homeowners get the full payout they deserve—even if they weren’t home when the damage happened. Here’s what you need to know to protect your home and your insurance claim while you’re away this summer.

Common Summer Vacation Home Disasters

🏡 Storm Damage – Severe thunderstorms, tornadoes, or hailstorms can hit while you’re out of town. If you don’t report the damage immediately, insurance companies might claim it got worse due to neglect.

💧 Water Damage & Flooding – A burst pipe or heavy rain can flood your basement. If left untreated, it can lead to mold growth, which some policies won’t cover.

🔌 Power Surges & Fires – Summer storms often bring power outages and electrical surges that can fry appliances—or worse, start a fire.

🚪 Break-Ins & Vandalism – Empty homes are prime targets for burglars. If you didn’t have security measures in place, your insurance company might refuse to pay.

Why Insurance Companies Deny Claims for Damage While You’re Away

“Delayed Reporting” Excuse – If you weren’t home to report the damage immediately, they might argue you didn’t act fast enough.

“Lack of Maintenance” Loophole – They might claim you could have prevented the damage if you had someone checking on the home.

Lowball Settlement Offers – They might offer a quick but inadequate payout, hoping you won’t fight back.

How to Protect Your Home (and Your Insurance Claim) While Traveling

✅ Have a Trusted Person Check Your Home – A neighbor, family member, or house-sitter should look for damage after storms.

✅ Set Up Security & Smart Tech – Install cameras, water leak sensors, and surge protectors to prevent and document damage.

✅ Photograph Your Home Before Leaving – This can prove your property’s condition in case of an insurance dispute.

✅ If You Return to Damage, Call a Public Adjuster First! – Before calling your insurance company, let us assess the damage and protect your claim.

Need Help with a Claim While You’re Away? We Handle Everything for You!

If you’re traveling and get the dreaded “storm alert” notification, don’t panic. We can handle your insurance claim remotely—so you don’t have to cut your trip short or stress about unfair payouts.

📞 Call Advocate Claims Services at 855-ACS-2-WIN!

🌐 Visit www.acsadjusters.com for a free consultation!