Make Your New Year Happier

Make Your New Year Happier

A new year has arrived. So it's time to get started on that January to-do list for your home.  

• Check your insurance coverage

The new year is a perfect time to check your flood insurance coverage. If your area is prone to flooding, you'll want to get insurance. Contact the National Flood Insurance Program at (888) 379-9531 or www.floodsmart.gov.

Remember, it won't cover everything. In fact, you'll pay $400 to $500 for only about $250,000 worth of coverage. Floods aren't the only reason you might need to buy more insurance protection.

Home values have risen over 50% over the past few years. That means you'll need more insurance for your home in case it needs to be rebuilt. To get a grip on how much coverage you need, get a contractor to estimate the cost of rebuilding your house using materials at today's costs.

Oh, and while you're at it, snap a few photos inside your home. That may prove more valuable than you think when it comes to making insurance claims.

Read about other tops tips that will make your new year happier…  

Then leave us your comment on the article. What are your plans for this year? Do you have your own way for making a new year happier?