Spruce up for spring and avoid home insurance claims
Spruce up for spring and avoid home insurance claims
We are all looking forward to warmer weather and more sunshine, but spring can be tough to enjoy when you’re still dealing with the impact of winter.
The ice, snow, wind, and cold can be brutal on your home and property, with some weather impacts being more obvious than others. That’s why it’s smart to conduct a thorough review in which you’re more likely to spot potentially costly problems.
Here are some spring property maintenance tips:
Inspect your roof
Look for damaged or buckling shingles or tiles and have them replaced. Don’t miss the base of the chimney, and repair any cracks to prevent water from leaking in.
Trim your trees
Prune tree limbs regularly to keep them away from your home, decks, and outbuildings in case high winds and precipitation cause them to break. If a tree is too close to your home, consider having it removed.
Clean out your gutters
Remove leaves, sticks, and other debris so water from spring showers can flow freely. Make sure gutters are secure and downspouts drain away from your foundation. If possible, extend the bottom of the downspout away from your home by at least six feet.
Test wood for water damage
Make sure wood on your home is not soft when you press it. It isn’t just exposed wood that is at risk. Even vinyl- or aluminum-sided homes have wooden framing and trim. Use a screwdriver to probe for soft wood, and repair or replace it as needed.
Check for appliance leaks
Look for signs of leakage around your washing machine, dishwasher, refrigerator, water heater, and other appliances that use water. Small leaks can lead to major damage.
Clean your dryer vent
Nearly 3,000 home dryer fires happen every year, according to the U.S. Fire Administration, causing $35 million in property loss annually. Cleaning dryer vents can prevent about a third of those fires. Make sure to clean your lint trap after every use.
Even the most diligent homeowners can run into expensive problems. Trust AAA Insurance to protect your home, car, and other personal assets against the unexpected.