Seismologists have expressed the concern that British Columbia is vulnerable in an event of an earthquake. We don’t know when this will happen. But we do live in a region where some of the largest earthquakes in the world occur.
In addition to our personal preparedness for the big one, we should also prepare our living space for this event.
If you live in a condo or apartment building, check with your building manager for expertise in earthquake proofing your home. You should also find out if the building complex has any emergency procedures in place.
This list is only a highlight of the many items that you may consider applying in order to earthquake proof your home. An earthquake in Metro Vancouver is an extreme possibility. Consult with Engineers, Architects, Insurance and/or other professionals for expert advice to make your house earthquake proof.
Keep in mind to have a 72 hour emergency preparedness kit available. Have the family get involved in creating a kit from scratch one rainy afternoon. There are also kits pre-packaged that you may purchase locally from companies such as Krasicki and Ward www.krasickiandward.com. Be safe by earthquake ready.
Living in BC, the risk of a major earthquake is always on our minds. Even a minor earthquake can cause significant damage to our property.
In addition to taking all the precautions listed above, be sure your home insurance policy provides you with earthquake insurance. This will protect you against loss to your own property caused by an earthquake. As well, if you have to move out of your home or condo while repairs are being done to the building, you will need additional living expense insurance to cover the cost of your hotel, and any other additional expenses. This coverage will only apply if the underlying cause of the loss, earthquake, is covered as well.
If you own a condo, you could be assessed an amount to help cover the strata’s insurance deductible after an Earthquake. Even if you carry strata property deductible assessment coverage on your condo policy, your cover may not respond, if your policy doesn’t include coverage for earthquakes.
Make sure your home insurance includes earthquake protection, and rest easy. For more information on earthquake insurance, or to get a quote tailored to your unique needs, contact Square One Insurance.
Foundation Finds: What To Expect During A Home Inspection
Condos, townhouses, and detached homes are built on a foundation. And, this foundation plays an integral role in maintaining a balance with the rest of the home’s components. We look for evidence and clues of movement such as foundation settlement or cracks. In some cases, we may recommend further evaluation by a foundation specialist as these types of repairs can be a sizeable expense that you may need to consider before making a decision to invest in a property or not.
Possible Plumbing Problems: What To Expect During A Home Inspection
Keep in mind that some properties are more prone to leaks than others. This may be due in part to architectural design, weather exposure, grading, materials used in construction, and/or improper installation practices. Water ingress into building structures can promote rotting and damage to a home components and systems.
Carbon Monoxide Safety Hazards: What To Expect During A Home Inspection
We inspect all carbon-based, fuel-burning appliances such as furnaces, ranges, and fireplaces to prevent possible safety hazards to you and your family. Our goal is to assure you that your living space is free from any indications of poisonous carbon monoxide and fumes.
We have shared with you a few of the infinite conditions and possible implications that we encounter on a daily basis in our profession.
