Some exposures heat up in the hot weather. Policyholders are enjoying recreational activities like pools and backyard BBQs, hosting family and friends, and traveling to local events and weekend getaways. While fun, these activities can increase summertime risks for policyholders. Learn how agents can help clients understand these heightened risks and plan for a safe and fun time.
How Agents Can Help Policyholders Manage Summertime Risks
Here are five common summertime risks and how agents can help policyholders manage these exposures.
Wildfire and drought-related property risks.
The hottest months of the summer mark the height of wildfire season in the western US. Homeowners and business owners in at-risk regions must manage the increased risk of wildfire exacerbated by drought conditions, dry vegetation, and high winds. Agents can proactively help by:
- Educating policyholders about home hardening measures, defensible space, and coverage endorsements
- Conducting annual risk reviews and assessments for policyholders and recommending risk mitigation measures
- Discussing options like FAIR plans and E&S insurers if policyholders are nonrenewed
Auto-related losses from increased driving time.
Many people travel by car during the summer to take vacations, weekend getaways, and to explore local attractions. More time spent on the road means greater potential for auto-related losses from accidents and thefts. Agents can help by reviewing auto policies with clients to ensure limits are sufficient and that policyholders understand the conditions and exclusions on their policies. Agents can educate business clients about their commercial policy and any exclusions for seasonal summer help.
Losses from summer activities.
Boats and jet skis are fun activities, but being on the water can bring increased risks. Many homeowners’ policies do not provide adequate coverage for boats and personal watercraft that may be rented for a day or an hour. Exposures like liability, theft, and property damage are high. Agents can proactively help their policyholders with risks from summer water activities by reviewing their current coverage, offering a standalone boat insurance policy, and educating policyholders about safety requirements like boating licenses.
Backyard hazards like pools, trampolines, BBQs, and fireworks.
Hosting family and friends for pool parties and BBQs is common, but can invite a variety of risks. Pools and trampolines are often considered attractive nuisances and can significantly increase liability exposure, something many homeowners do not realize when they add summertime additions to their backyards. Agents can help by:
- Recommending coverage reviews and limits increases when appropriate
- Reviewing the individual risk profile and discussing adding an umbrella policy for additional liability coverage if warranted
- Educating policyholders through seasonal thought leadership content on topics like safe fireworks handling, grilling safety, or common summer risks to avoid
Cyber risks from travel and seasonal businesses.
Seasonal businesses like camps and tour companies usually increase their online activity during the summer. Individuals often search for recreational activities, tickets, hotel prices, and flights during peak travel times in the summer. This heightened digital activity can create cyber vulnerabilities for both businesses and personal lines customers. Agents can help by recommending cyber policies, even for small and seasonal businesses. They can help policyholders assess their exposure to cyber attacks and strategize action plans. Finally, agents can provide resources for cyber training for employees, especially seasonal or temporary workers who may not have had any cybersecurity training in the past.
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