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No matter if you're a first-time homebuyer or have been in your home for years, spring is the perfect time to take stock and make sure your home is properly protected and insured. With the weather warming up and home maintenance season kicking into high gear, a little preparation can go a long way in preventing hassles and headaches down the road. Here are some top home insurance tips to keep in mind as you get ready for springtime.
Get Reacquainted with Your Policy
When was the last time you actually read through your homeowners insurance policy? For many people, it was probably when they first signed up for coverage. As the seasons change, it's a good idea to dust off that policy document and give it another look with fresh eyes. Make sure you understand what is and isn't covered, and that the coverage limits still make sense for your current situation.
While you're at it, double check that you have the right types of protection for things like water backup, personal property, and personal liability. Spring can bring heavy rains in many areas, increasing the risk of water damage. And as you start spending more time outdoors working in the yard, accidents can happen that may fall under personal liability coverage. Don't be caught off guard - an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure!
Call in the Pros for an Inspection
Spring is also a smart time to schedule professional inspections of some key areas of your home. Catching small issues early can prevent them from turning into costly repairs down the line. At the top of the list, you'll want to get your roof inspected, since winter weather can take its toll. An experienced roofer can check for damaged or missing shingles and investigate any other potential problem areas.
While they're at it, you may want to have them inspect your gutters and downspouts as well. Clogged gutters are a common culprit for water buildup that can lead to leaks, interior damage, and even foundation troubles. The last thing you want is to find yourself facing a huge repair bill because a small seasonal maintenance task was overlooked.
And don't forget the AC! Spring is the ideal time to have your air conditioning system tuned up before the hot summer months hit. Not only can this save you money on energy costs, but it can also extend the life of your system and prevent breakdowns when you need it most.
Inspect Your Own Property
In addition to calling in the experts, springtime is your chance to do your own full walk-around of your home's exterior and grounds. Keep an eye out for anything that seems damaged, worn, or in need of repair or replacement. Things like loose siding, cracked windows, missing fence boards, unstable decks, and damaged sidewalks or driveways should be addressed right away before they potentially cause more harm.
Don't forget to visually inspect your basement for signs of moisture, mold, or water stains too. When the snow starts melting and spring rains arrive, water has a way of finding even the smallest cracks to seep through. Taking action now can spare you from dealing with a flooded basement and all the cleanup and repair costs when waters start rising.
While you're outside, be sure to trim back any overgrown trees and shrubbery around your home. Branches rubbing up against your roof or siding can cause wear and tear over time. And don't forget potential tripping hazards like raised sidewalks or loose landscape borders - another personal liability risk to be mindful of.
The Bottom Line
As a homeowner, spring offers the perfect chance to get reacquainted with your property and make sure you have the right home insurance protection in place. A little preventative maintenance and some seasonal inspections can go a long way in identifying and addressing small issues before they snowball into major, budget-busting repairs.
So embrace the warmer weather and get outside! Inspect, repair, and mark your calendar for any professional services your home may need. That way you can spend more time this season enjoying your home's outdoor spaces, instead of stressing over costly damages that could have been prevented. An ounce of spring preparation is worth its weight in peace of mind.