9 vital homeowner maintenance tips to prevent costly damage

The main purpose of homeowners’ insurance is to protect you from major risks like fires, hail, explosions, theft and wind storms. What it doesn’t cover is flooding, earthquakes or everyday wear and tear — or poor maintenance.

Proper home maintenance and regular upkeep help homeowners avoid paying for major repairs out of their own pocket, it can also help deter insurance claims that could bring a spike in premiums.

Here are home maintenance tips that could keep your home safe and save money and stress:

1. Caulk where needed: Caulk can help keep moisture out of crevices to avoid water damage and mold.
2. Clean clothes dryer lint trap & exhaust duct: Lint can gradually build up and catch fire in the heating duct.
3. Inspect & repair the roof: Check for signs of wear or damage and look for missing or aging shingles.
4. Test and clean the sump pump & pit: Water damage due to sewage backups generally requires additional insurance coverage beyond a standard policy.
5. Inspect & clean chimneys yearly: Unclean chimneys are a leading cause of structure fires and other serious issues like carbon monoxide entering home living spaces.
6. Clean and maintain gutters and downspouts: Clogged gutters can cause water to flow down and pool around the home’s foundation leading to uneven floors, cracks in the wall, or interior water damage.
7. Check for termites yearly: Have a professional inspect your home- once termites spread, they can cause major structure damage.
8. Regularly maintain pipes and plumbing: Homeowners’ insurance does not cover pipe degradation due to age or poor care. Look for cracks and leaks and have repairs done immediately. Also know the location of the main water shut-off valve.
9. Inspect your deck: Simple upkeep can prevent incidents like collapsed decks.

Learn more about these 9 tips from PropertyCasualty360.com here