A Lesson from the Recent Eastern Washington Wildfires

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 last week about his aquaintance who put his home for sale and moved out during the sales process. It was in the fire evacuation area near Spokane. 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.