Home central
Information to help you enjoy a safer and smarter household
Buying & Selling
DISCOVER MOREHome protection: water
Home Safety
Common Signs of Plumbing Problems
Water damage due to a plumbing problem in your home can be life-changing. But there are some common signs that homeowners can look for and steps they can take to help avoid a major water issue at home.
![Common signs plumbing.](https://asset.trvstatic.com/images/assets/common-signs-plumbing.jpg/Zz0xNjk5MGY1MDFiMjMxMWVkYjA4MTZhYTA0NDViZDMwNw==?token=eyJ0eXAiOiJKV1QiLCJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJzdWIiOlsiMTY5OTBmNTAxYjIzMTFlZGIwODE2YWEwNDQ1YmQzMDciXSwiZXhwIjoxNjc5MDUzNTg1fQ.6Vtv9fHkCyxGTtW-SfwSy3ZqeOsMWsRS2EQxiQAUrJE)
Home Safety
Basic Home Maintenance Tips to Help Protect Against Water Damage
Do you want to reduce the chances of water damage in your house? Here are some home maintenance tips that Travelers Risk Control specialists recommend.
![Basic Home Maintenance Tips To Help Protect Against Water Damage.](https://asset.trvstatic.com/images/assets/female-plumber-fixing-leaking-sink-home-bathroom.jpg/5df6dcae6f4d11eeaaadca7a0d65b834?token=eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJzdWIiOlsiNWRmNmRjYWU2ZjRkMTFlZWFhYWRjYTdhMGQ2NWI4MzQiXSwiZXhwIjoxNjk3ODE2MTQwfQ.UdsGvqF-drLES-PiZqIRobPOypS0Jsu5rHjADfMV9Ss)
Home Water Damage Prevention
Keep Your Home Safe from Water: Best Practices to Protect Your Home While You're Away
Most water damage that homeowners experience is the result of leaks in pipes and connections frequently due to maintenance issues. Here are some tips to consider to help you avoid damage to or loss of your property.
![A dishwasher filled with dishes.](https://asset.trvstatic.com/images/assets/a-dishwasher-filled-with-dishes.jpg/a93181ac151f11ee94a172b8d2caf1e4)
Fire safety
Home Fire Safety Tips
Kitchen Fire Safety
Kitchen fire safety extends beyond cooking, as these types of fires can also be caused by appliances.
![Kitchen with appliances.](https://asset.trvstatic.com/images/assets/Kitchen+with+appliances.jpg/Zz04ZmE1NmI1YTFiYzgxMWVkODhlZTZhYTA0NDViZDMwNw==)
Home Fire Safety Tips
The Science of Gas Grill Fires
What causes a gas grill to catch on fire? We'll take a look at three of the leading causes and explore the science behind gas grill fires.
![Person cleaning a gas grill.](https://asset.trvstatic.com/images/assets/person-cleaning-a-gas-grill.jpg/Zz0xNDZhNmQxNDZmMjQxMWVkYjY1MGJhMjVhYmVjMjBhZA==?token=eyJ0eXAiOiJKV1QiLCJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJzdWIiOlsiMTQ2YTZkMTQ2ZjI0MTFlZGI2NTBiYTI1YWJlYzIwYWQiXSwiZXhwIjoxNjc4MjA4MjIyfQ.Pyai_A0uLjO5QdJXX1AAlHtj7GF0NKJvkxq0wvakReU)
Home Fire Safety Tips
How to Help Prevent House Fires
There are many causes of house fires, including faulty wiring, alternate heat sources, cooking and more.
![Outlet on fire with cord plugged in.](https://asset.trvstatic.com/images/assets/Fire_Evac_outlet_Large.jpg/33302c780c8d11eea5a042c5bd76ad60)
Home safety
DISCOVER MORE![House decorated for the holidays.](https://asset.trvstatic.com/images/assets/HolidayDecoratingOptions_large_image.jpg/d93ff1b60c7e11eea5a042c5bd76ad60)
Holiday Decorating Safety
![Woman punching in numbers to alarm system.](https://asset.trvstatic.com/images/assets/woman-punching-in-numbers-to-alarm-system.jpg/1514601eb83811edbcde5621dcaf1b49)
9 Home Security Tips
![Solar panel installed on to roof of a home.](https://asset.trvstatic.com/images/assets/solar-panel-installed-on-to-roof-of-a-home.jpg/280809b4b83311edbcde5621dcaf1b49)
Home Solar Panel Installation Tips
Smart home
Smart Home Tips & Tools
How Smart Home Technology Helps Protect Your Home
Smart home technology offers ease and convenience. It can also help protect your home and reduce home insurance costs.
![Man setting up smart technology to protect home.](https://asset.trvstatic.com/images/assets/smart-home-tech-protect-home-large.jpg/b2f5b556112711eebeb7461788696b5f?token=eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJzdWIiOlsiYjJmNWI1NTYxMTI3MTFlZWJlYjc0NjE3ODg2OTZiNWYiXSwiZXhwIjoxNjg3NDY0NDc0fQ.ukCvm8aHrxBPM5Ub_7wepcaXyh3FKu6lPhpbyEHNrUY)
Smart Home Tips & Tools
4 Smart Home Leak Detection Devices to Help Avoid Water Damage
Learn how to prevent costly water damage and protect your home and valuables with these four smart home water detection systems that help avoid leaks.
![A hand holding a smart home device for detecting leaks.](https://asset.trvstatic.com/images/assets/a-hand+holding-a-smart-home-device-for-detecting-leaks.jpg/Zz0xZTczMWFmYzZmM2ExMWVkYWZjYzNlOWMwOWE4ZTAxNw==)
Smart Home Tips & Tools
5 Smart Home Automation Safety Tips
Home automation technology is on the rise, and with it, so are a number of new security and safety concerns. Get home automation tips from Travelers.
![Person using smart phone to control smart home tech.](https://asset.trvstatic.com/images/assets/person-using-smart-phone-to-control-smart-home-tech.jpg/Zz1lMDJmMTY1ZTFiNmMxMWVkYWQ4Y2RhZWQyOTNiMmYxNQ==)
Moving
DISCOVER MORE![Pet dog sitting in a moving box.](https://asset.trvstatic.com/images/assets/pet-dog-sitting-in-a-moving-box.jpg/d8673ed2b82a11edabe7166f0d6c844f)
7 Tips for Moving with a Pet
![Man packing his car for moving out of his home.](https://asset.trvstatic.com/images/assets/man-packing-his-car-for-moving-out-of-his-home.jpg/Zz02ODY4YjU2MmI4MmUxMWVkOGViMzhhOGI3YWEyMzlkMQ==)
5 Tips for Moving on a Budget
![Woman measuring room when preparing to downsize home.](https://asset.trvstatic.com/images/assets/woman-measuring-office-floor.jpg/4cf4078ab3ac11ee835f1a56295b1e4c)
How to Downsize Your Home in 6 Steps
Home maintenance
Home Maintenance Tips and Resources
Summer Home Maintenance Tips
Summer home maintenance can help keep your home safe from damage. Get summer home maintenance tips from Travelers.
![Woman cleaning windows in summer](https://asset.trvstatic.com/images/assets/summermaintenance_small.jpg/Zz0yYTAyYjQyODFiNzQxMWVkYTYwMzdlZDlhNGI2ZDU2ZQ==?token=eyJ0eXAiOiJKV1QiLCJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJzdWIiOlsiMmEwMmI0MjgxYjc0MTFlZGE2MDM3ZWQ5YTRiNmQ1NmUiXSwiZXhwIjoxNjc3NTA1MzI3fQ.HhbxlAHcikvoti5JFCuI_38s9nqoozYAmXBjr5sG-Tg)
Home Maintenance Tips and Resources
Call Before You Dig
Use the Call Before You Dig hotline, 811, to research underground lines that may be buried on your property before doing any digging.
![Person holding shovel full of dirt.](https://asset.trvstatic.com/images/assets/callbefore811_large.jpg/d12866ce0c8911eea5a042c5bd76ad60?token=eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJzdWIiOlsiZDEyODY2Y2UwYzg5MTFlZWE1YTA0MmM1YmQ3NmFkNjAiXSwiZXhwIjoxNjg2OTU2ODYwfQ.UNZEQQ0W_yEbJyYO_5ypfFnUn9AUhyTjkSxFqCX4E80)
Home Maintenance Tips and Resources
Top 5 Ways Things Can Go Wrong in Your Home
Do you know the top dangers to your house? This interactive can help identify common risks in your area.
![Home and phone app.](https://asset.trvstatic.com/images/assets/home-and-phone-app.jpg/Zz1lM2IzMzA1NGM0YzExMWVkOGZjMjA2OGZkN2ExZjkzMw==?token=eyJ0eXAiOiJKV1QiLCJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJzdWIiOlsiZTNiMzMwNTRjNGMxMTFlZDhmYzIwNjhmZDdhMWY5MzMiXSwiZXhwIjoxNjc5MDY0NDg1fQ.S9e3jKajSMQspUfPvw682xltPJ2FYMHGjMMIAL7Eo10)
Insuring
DISCOVER MORERenovation
Home Renovation Tips & Tools
Hiring a Contractor Checklist and Tips
Use our hiring a contractor checklist tips as a guide to help you when selecting a contractor.
![Two contractors working on kitchen in house.](https://asset.trvstatic.com/images/assets/two-contractors-working-on-kitchen-project.jpg/ebd002a2b6c111edae998a7c0a9d5a80)
Home Renovation Tips & Tools
Renovating Your Home to FORTIFIED Standards
FORTIFIED homes are generally stronger than most state building codes require and can protect against severe weather.
![Person working on installing new window in house.](https://asset.trvstatic.com/images/assets/contractor-updating-windows-n-house+to-FORTIFIED-standards.jpg/95dba9285c9311ee88c0de456253796a)
Home Renovation Tips & Tools
The Pros and Cons of Composite vs. Wood Decking
While they often cost more than wood, composite materials can offer greater durability and less maintenance. Learn about the pros and cons of composite decking.
![Couple fixing deck at home.](https://asset.trvstatic.com/images/assets/couple-working-deck.jpg/c9953574c5ff11eeba37762b45ff4602)
Identity theft
DISCOVER MORE![Boy looking out snowy window during the holiday.](https://asset.trvstatic.com/images/assets/boy-look-out-window.jpg/d243e84cab9211ed840e2af9683b2504)
4 Tips for Holiday Safety
Landlords
Landlord Resources
10 Common Rental Property Repairs Landlords Need to Know About
Landlords are responsible for handling building maintenance and quickly fixing problems. To ensure you are always ready, here are the 10 most common rental property repairs.
![Landlord making property repairs on an outside AC unit.](https://asset.trvstatic.com/images/assets/person-repairing-an-air-conditioning-unit-outside.jpg/c1aef490b76311ed86603a2213f65951)
Landlord Resources
As a Landlord, Can I Require My Tenants to Have Renters Insurance?
If you're a landlord, you might've wondered if your tenants should have renters insurance. Find out if landlords can require renters insurance with Travelers.
![Couple receiving keys from to home from landlord.](https://asset.trvstatic.com/images/assets/couple-receiving-keys-from-to-home-from-landlord.jpg/Zz1lMjA4ZTMyMGI3NmExMWVkODU1NGFlMTZkMzRiODM2Mw==?token=eyJ0eXAiOiJKV1QiLCJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJzdWIiOlsiZTIwOGUzMjBiNzZhMTFlZDg1NTRhZTE2ZDM0YjgzNjMiXSwiZXhwIjoxNjc3NTk3ODk4fQ.QPU-_gaWOYCM8Z8oY6VLGjKe48yfAbp7LQszz2uNUM8)
Landlord Resources
Landlord Insurance for Rental Properties
Considering renting out your home or investing in a small residential property with a couple of apartments to generate extra income? Here's what you need to know about landlord insurance.
![landlord working with tenants.](https://asset.trvstatic.com/images/assets/landlord_insurance_large.jpg/Zz04MzQxZjA2MjFiYzkxMWVkOGZhNTZlNDY3MGY1ZWQ0ZA==?token=eyJ0eXAiOiJKV1QiLCJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJzdWIiOlsiODM0MWYwNjIxYmM5MTFlZDhmYTU2ZTQ2NzBmNWVkNGQiXSwiZXhwIjoxNjc3NTI0NTg2fQ.eT8QBv9t9icdHbiMtesctIp0GQVoarniSaInSqUQuTM)
Landlord Resources
Landlord Insurance vs. Homeowners Insurance: What's the Difference?
Make sure you have the coverage needed for your rental properties. Whether you're a seasoned, new or accidental landlord, learn about landlord vs. homeowners insurance.
![landlord vs homeowners.](https://asset.trvstatic.com/images/assets/landlord-vs-homeowners-large.jpg/Zz1hOGVkNWU1YTFiYzkxMWVkOWE2ZjhlZTJiMDdmODZlMQ==?token=eyJ0eXAiOiJKV1QiLCJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJzdWIiOlsiYThlZDVlNWExYmM5MTFlZDlhNmY4ZWUyYjA3Zjg2ZTEiXSwiZXhwIjoxNjc3NTI3OTYwfQ.U1dYCxVRpaKZ1kgg91Pz6JCSOfv0hfBjkolEppvDhV8)
Landlord Resources
Renting Out Your House or Investment Property: 7 Things to Consider
Investing in a rental property to become a landlord could be a smart way to generate extra income for yourself. Here are seven things to think about when you're considering renting your own property as a landlord.
![landlord renting out a house.](https://asset.trvstatic.com/images/assets/renting_out_your_house_large.jpg/Zz1iYTczNDYyNDFiNTMxMWVkOTY5NThlZTJiMDdmODZlMQ==)
Pet resources
Moving Tips & Resources
7 Tips for Moving with a Pet
Moving with your cat, dog or other pet can be stressful for both you and your pet. Follow these tips from Travelers for moving with pets to help with a smooth transition.
![Pet dog sitting in a moving box.](https://asset.trvstatic.com/images/assets/pet-dog-sitting-in-a-moving-box.jpg/d8673ed2b82a11edabe7166f0d6c844f)
Pet Resources
What Not to Feed Your Dog
Your dog may ask for a bite of your food, but is it OK to share? Learn what foods not to feed your dogs and what to do if they eat something they shouldn't.
![A dog waiting patiently for food in the hands of their owner.](https://asset.trvstatic.com/images/assets/a-dog-waiting-patiently-for-food-in-the-hands-of-their-owner.jpg/d73d2574a0a311ed86b212eec88ba2b1)
Pet Resources
Alternatives to Declawing Cats
Cat owners frustrated with scratching may consider declawing their cats, but the procedure can be damaging. Learn more about alternatives to declawing.
![Image of orange and white tabby cat scratching at a cat scratching post.](https://asset.trvstatic.com/images/assets/image-of-orange-and-white-tabby-cat-scratching-at-a-cat-scratching-post.jpg/Zz0zMzdjOTk2OGEwOWIxMWVkODFjNTQyZDkzOWMxNDA4Yw==)
Renter resources
Renters Resources
Do College Students Need Renters Insurance?
College students living in dorms likely won't have any dorm insurance. Learn more about on- and off-campus renters insurance for college students from Travelers.
![Young woman and her mom packing boxes into a car, heading off to college.](https://asset.trvstatic.com/images/assets/young-woman-and-her-mom-packing-boxes-into-a-car-heading-off-to-college.jpg/Zz0xMjBhMGNmNGExNDMxMWVkOTVjZWYyNDMzOGZiMThhZg==?token=eyJ0eXAiOiJKV1QiLCJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJzdWIiOlsiMTIwYTBjZjRhMTQzMTFlZDk1Y2VmMjQzMzhmYjE4YWYiXSwiZXhwIjoxNjc1MTYxNzE2fQ.7rPtIkCrGgTSNUYYf03IqCJelmM6DN1OT_U8kVcRkfA)
Renters Resources
4 Things Every Renter Needs to Know About Renters Insurance
As you consider whether to buy renters insurance, here are four things you need to know about how a policy can compensate you for lost or damaged property.
![Woman laying on couch in apartment.](https://asset.trvstatic.com/images/assets/what_renters_need_to_know_large-02.jpg/1f3c2e10f4f511eda9d9025989db237f)
Renters Resources
5 Questions to Ask Your Insurance Rep About Renters Insurance
Not all renters policies are the same. Asking the right questions of an insurance rep can help you make the right choice for your needs.
![Young couple meeting insurance representative.](https://asset.trvstatic.com/images/assets/couple-talking-with-insurance-representative.jpg/54bc3fca0b7611eeac1e2a3f13fac976)
Travel resources
Travel Resources
A Guide to Renewing Your U.S. Passport
Renewing your passport can be a daunting task. Unsure where to start? Learn how to renew your passport with this helpful guide.
![Young woman smiling walking through and airport, carrying a passport.](https://asset.trvstatic.com/images/assets/guide-renewing-passport-large.jpg/39da204e0fa611eea62be63ace9685c5)
Travel Resources
Do I Need Travel Insurance?
Travel insurance helps protect you when unexpected things happen before or during trips.
![Couple traveling.](https://asset.trvstatic.com/images/assets/couple+traveling.jpg/1ba4c43a4e3511ee80da4a512a31518e)
Travel Resources
How Much Medical Travel Insurance Do I Need?
Traveling soon? You should consider travel medical insurance to help protect yourself in the event of an accident or illness. Learn more about your options today.
![Man with medical travel insurance wearing a face mask at airport with suitcase.](https://asset.trvstatic.com/images/assets/man-wearing-a-face-mark-at-airport-with-suitcase.jpg/cbb47f6e150011eea25c3e5974f2651a)
Travel Resources
10 Packing Tips: How to Pack a Suitcase for Vacation
Some people love the process of planning a vacation. But what may be less enjoyable for some is the essential task of packing for your trip. Here are 10 tips on how to pack a suitcase for vacation.
![Older woman with suitcase on bed packing.](https://asset.trvstatic.com/images/assets/older-woman-with-suitcase-on-bed-packing.jpg/0841443ea14911ed82a4826e18de23fd)
Travel Resources
When Should I Purchase Travel Insurance?
Booking travel insurance ahead of time is crucial to kick-off your trip. Read on to learn more about when you should consider purchasing travel insurance.
![Insured person traveling holding suitcase in an airport.](https://asset.trvstatic.com/images/assets/person-holding-suitcase-in-airport.jpg/70bb5d12a15111ed9695fee3f148728e)
Working remotely
Working Remotely
10 Tips for Staying Productive When Working from Home
Though technology can ease many of the challenges associated with working from home, it can't always help you stay productive. If you're finding it hard to stay on top of your tasks or meet your deadlines while working from home, these 10 tips can help.
![Woman working at her home desk on a laptop.](https://asset.trvstatic.com/images/assets/woman-working-at-her-home-desk-on-laptop.jpg/bb4f12aa992c11ee97ccde7c2897bbef)
Small Business Resources
How to Set Up Your Home Office
If you work from home, properly setting up your home office can help avoid painful injuries and time lost from work in the future.
![Woman sitting at computer in home office](https://asset.trvstatic.com/images/assets/home_office_ergonomics_large.jpg/a1aec2280abb11eebea95edf08e23f48?token=eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJzdWIiOlsiYTFhZWMyMjgwYWJiMTFlZWJlYTk1ZWRmMDhlMjNmNDgiXSwiZXhwIjoxNjg2NzU4MzUyfQ.AjG6Tjmj362UM1N9kgB3kqlMRX1lev8zcSqBnlWG5NE)
Working Remotely
6 Tips for Working from Home with Your Kids
The juggle of work and home life has taken a different form for working parents of school-age children. Learn six tips for working from home with your kids.
![Man working from home with laptop at kitchen table with child also at the table.](https://asset.trvstatic.com/images/assets/man-working-on-laptop-at-kitchen-table-with-child-also-at-the-table.jpg/0ab58878993311ee97ccde7c2897bbef)