July is the peak of summer—bringing long days, outdoor adventures, road trips, and often… unexpected headaches. Whether you’re enjoying vacation time or checking off summer projects, this season also brings an increase in claims, weather-related damage, and road risks.
Let’s explore a few common mid-summer risks and the coverage solutions that can help protect your home, business, and peace of mind.
Homeowners: Wildfire Season & Weather Surprises
The risk: Wildfire threats, strong summer storms, and high winds can lead to property damage. Heat and lightning can spark fires or damage electronics and roofing materials.
Insurance solution:
- Review your dwelling and replacement cost coverage to ensure it reflects current rebuild prices.
- Ask about endorsements for wildfire or storm coverage if you’re in a higher-risk area.
- Check if trees, fencing, and sheds are included in your policy.
Tip: Use a home inventory app to document your belongings—it can make claims much faster and easier to settle.
Drivers: Summer Traffic & Road Trip Risks
The risk: More traffic, more teen drivers, and longer travel miles increase the likelihood of accidents and roadside breakdowns.
Insurance solution:
- Increase liability limits for added financial protection beyond the legal minimum.
- Add roadside assistance and rental reimbursement for peace of mind on road trips.
- Consider usage-based insurance if you’re a safe, low-mileage driver.
Tip: Adding a new or teen driver? Be sure they’re listed on your policy before they hit the road.
Rural Living & Farm Risks: Equipment, Outbuildings & Guest Liability
The risk: Summer is busy on rural properties—more visitors, more equipment in use, and more potential for accidents.
Insurance solution:
- Ensure farm equipment and recreational vehicles (like ATVs) are separately scheduled—not all are automatically covered.
- Ask about liability or umbrella coverage if you’re hosting events or have seasonal help.
- Double-check coverage for outbuildings, like barns or detached garages.
Tip: Hosting a gathering? Event liability coverage is an easy add-on that can help avoid big risks.
Business Owners: Storm Claims, Cyber Risks & Seasonal Staffing
The risk: Summer storms can damage property and halt operations. Meanwhile, temporary staffing or increased customer traffic may raise exposure to liability or digital threats.
Insurance solution:
- Make sure business interruption coverage is up to date and includes weather-related closures.
- Review employment practices liability coverage if hiring seasonal workers.
- Check your cyber liability policy, especially if your business stores customer data or uses online payment systems.
Tip: Create a basic emergency response plan for employees—include key contacts, tech backups, and quick action steps.
Mid-Year is the Right Time for a Policy Review
From minor life updates to big business changes, summer is the ideal time to revisit your coverage and adjust it to your current needs. A mid-year review keeps you prepared, protected, and proactive.
Whether you’re hitting the road, working the land, or running a growing business, your insurance should adapt to how you live and work.