03 Sep Storing and Insuring Your Summer Toys for Off-Season
About The Author
Ashley Dunlap, TPRA – Personal Risk Advisor
As a Personal Risk Advisor, Ashley specializes in client service and generating new business opportunities, while delivering personalized solutions to address our clients’ multifaceted challenges.
As the summer weather cools, it’s time to think about storing and insuring your favorite summer toys for the winter season—a boat, RV, jet ski, or four-wheeler. They are lots of fun when the weather is warm, but if they’re not properly stored (or insured), you could face costly repairs and headaches when you go to take them out again next spring.
Here are a few key steps to keep your recreational vehicles protected through the off-season:
1. Prep Before You Park
Before storing and insuring your boat, RV, or any other vehicle, make sure it’s cleaned and serviced:
- Wash thoroughly to remove dirt, grime, and salt that will rust.
- Drain fluids or add stabilizers so that the engine won’t get damaged.
- Check tires and batteries so they don’t deteriorate while sitting unused.
2. Choose the Right Storage Spot
Where and how you store makes a big difference:
- Indoor storage offers the best protection against weather, rodents, and theft.
- Outdoor storage should include proper covers or tarps designed for your specific vehicle.
- Elevation and ventilation are important to prevent moisture from building up, which could cause mold, mildew, or rust.
3. Review Your Insurance Coverage
Storage duration is also the best time to review your policy. Many people assume their homeowners or auto insurance automatically covers these vehicles, but that’s often not the case. Double-check that your policy includes:
- Comprehensive coverage for theft, vandalism, fire, or storm damage while stored.
- Liability protection if you’re moving your RV or boat to and from storage.
- Specialized policies if you own multiple recreational vehicles or high-value equipment.
This is where storing and insuring your summer toys goes hand in hand, protecting both the vehicle itself and your financial investment.
4. Don’t Forget Security
Even while in storage, recreational vehicles can be stolen. Keep them safe with:
- Good locks and steering wheel bars.
- Secure storage lots with surveillance or gated access.
- Removing valuables and personal items before storing.
Good storage and good insurance aren’t just about preventing damage; they conserve your time, money, and hassle when it’s time to get rolling (or floating) again. Planning in advance, you’ll keep your investment intact and sleep better at night during the off-season.
If you’re unsure about your policy details or need personalized advice, contact one of our talented Risk Advisors today! They can review your insurance policies with you to ensure you’re properly covered. Small adjustments now can provide significant peace of mind throughout the year!
No Comments