It may be hard to believe when you look outside now, but spring is coming! With the arrival of this warmer season comes everyone’s least favourite task: spring cleaning. Though it is dreaded by many, it is crucial to keep your home in tip-top shape! The better shape your home is in, the longer you can delay having to make any costly repairs. Now is a great time to inspect your home and update your insurance. We’ve got you covered with our spring cleaning checklist. Here are the top spring cleaning items to check off your list while you wait for the warmer weather to settle in.
1. Care For Your Roof
Wind, water, sliding ice, and falling objects are all winter hazards that can damage your roof. As a result, winter and cold weather can cause significant damage to it. When the snow thaws, check for loose or missing shingles and other visible signs of damage. Homes with roof damage will typically pay more for home insurance. On top of this, your roof is one of the most expensive parts of your home to work on or replace. As a result, you want to ensure you take good care of it to maintain its longevity. If you’re not comfortable navigating your roof yourself, please call a professional. It may cost some money, but your safety is always a top priority.
2. Your Homes Foundation and Exterior
You can walk around your home to look for hairline cracks in the foundation and peeling paint. As mentioned above, the cold and wet winter months can do some damage when it comes to the exterior of your home. Fill in any cracks that can lead to leaks or safety hazards. The last thing you want is someone to fall on a newly formed crack in your walkway!
This is also a good opportunity to inspect holes that could allow pests into your home. Remember that most home insurance policies exclude leakage from cracks in your home’s foundation.
3. Spring Clean Your Gutters
Heavy ice can clog and separate gutters. When snow melts, it often carries leaves, sticks, and debris. This is why it is important to inspect and clean gutters and downpipes, and to ensure that water drains away from walls and the foundation. This helps ensure your gutters and eavestroughs are protected from damage. The last thing you want is gutter damage, which can be costly to repair or replace.
4. Faucets and Water Damage
Water damage is a top concern when winter snow melts. When spring arrives and the snow melts, floods can become a significant issue for homeowners. Look for visible water damage both in your interior and exterior walls. If you’re opening your pool, check outside hose faucets for water pressure and potential leaks into your home. If you find any leaks, address them immediately to prevent further damage.
5. Spring Cleaning and Mould
Damp conditions, such as flooding or leaks, can lead to toxic mould growth. If you suspect mould growth in your home or want to do a preventive check to find potential areas, you can purchase a mould kit or hire a professional to inspect. Home insurance companies are very concerned about mould, so keep your house mould-free to maintain your health and the best home insurance rates.
6. Trees and Shrubbery
Trees, bushes, and other shrubbery are great for brightening your home. If you have any large trees on your property, you must take a quick look at them. Make sure there aren’t any overhanging branches that can fall onto your roof or break your windows. Not only does it keep your home safe and in good shape, but it also makes it look much nicer! Remember, if some of your trees are large or hard to reach, always call a professional and never risk your safety!
7. Give Your Driveway Some TLC
As the snow starts to melt, it’s time to check the condition of your driveway. When water freezes in your driveway, it expands and cracks form (as on roads). This can create breaks or potholes. Consider re-paving or re-laying brick on your driveway to curb additional damage. Keeping your driveway safe will avoid slip-and-fall claims against you, which can negatively affect your home insurance premiums in the long run.
8. Spring Clean The Windows
Spring cleaning wouldn’t be spring cleaning without mentioning windows and window tracks. Look for cracks and verify that sliding doors are operating correctly. Like your roof, replacing your windows can be costly for your home. Save money and keep them in top shape so they last as long as possible. To add to this, a quick shine on the inside and outside of your windows can do wonders in making your home look in tip-top shape!
9. Review Your Insurance Policy
Spring cleaning offers a great opportunity to pull out your home insurance policy and review your coverage. Are your building limits up to date? Do you need additional coverage, such as increased insurance for unique items? This can include jewelry, fine arts, or sports equipment. If you work from home, does your home insurance cover you for your business property located within your home?
10. Look For Home Insurance Discounts
Insurance companies offer a range of discounts to their clients, such as bundling your auto and home policies. Please review your home insurance policy with your insurance provider and ensure you are not leaving money on the table. An isure broker is happy to review your home insurance policy anytime. Contact us or request a quote today, and happy spring cleaning!
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