The new product enables smart home technology to help customers add an extra layer of protection against water damages.
PRODUCT: LeakBot water flow monitoring device.
COMPANIES: Nationwide Insurance and LeakBot.
AVAILABILITY: Agents appointed with Nationwide.
FOCUS: Nationwide has experience providing innovative solutions that enhance the safety and security of policyholders' homes. Water leaks are one of the biggest causes of home insurance claims. However, advancements in smart home technology can help customers add an extra layer of protection against water damage, which is something homeowners may not frequently think about.
“Equipping our agents with knowledge of the different solutions will help us meet the goal of identifying and fixing issues before they become major problems," says Sarah Jacobs, senior vice president, personal lines product and underwriting, Nationwide. “By incorporating the LeakBot device, a homeowner can identify risks early, which offers greater peace of mind to our policyholders."
“What sets this product apart is its ability to monitor and detect water leaks in real-time, providing early warnings before issues escalate into significant problems," Jacobs added.
Since the partnership's launch, LeakBot has already successfully identified and repaired 90 leaks in Nationwide customers' homes, including 16 that would have caused significant property damage if left unresolved.
COVERAGE DETAILS: The LeakBot device is a single device that monitors the whole home for water leaks or plumbing issues before they become a major problem.
Part of what makes this product appealing is the simple setup. LeakBot takes less than five minutes to install, and no tools or plumbing know-how is required. Homeowners clip LeakBot along the internal incoming main water supply pipe, and then they can monitor leaks via an app.
UNDERWRITING: The service will be available to both existing and new customers as a standard part of Nationwide's homeowners insurance offering. There is no minimum premium requirement. Discounts and offerings may vary by state but, in many cases, a policy discount is offered in addition to the free device.
TARGET: Homeowners who are proactive about home maintenance and safety.
COVERAGE AVAILABILITY: Available in ID, IL, IN, KY, MD, MT, OH, OR, PA, TN, UT, VA, VT, WA and WV.
CONTACT: Craig Foster, founder and CEO, Leakbot.
Will Jones is IA editor-in-chief.