The arrival of winter brings a different variety of risks that have the potential to cause significant damage and loss to your home. For this reason, properly preparing your property for the season is not only important for increased comfort and efficiency, but also to help keep your home safe and costs down. Here are a few maintenance tasks to complete during fall to lower the possibility of having to file a homeowners insurance claim.

Fall Maintenance Checklist to Reduce Homeowners Insurance Risks 

1. Inspect & Clean the Fireplace 

Numerous fires occur every year due to inadequately maintained fireplaces. If creosote is allowed to build up within the chimney, it can easily ignite and cause a fire to break out. This can be prevented by having your fireplace thoroughly inspected and cleaned before you ever start using it. The flashing and exterior of your chimney should also be checked to make sure it’s in good condition.

2. Clean Out the Gutters 

Clogged gutters can cause quite a few issues for homeowners, including roof leaks. If your gutters aren’t able to drain correctly, the excess water they’re holding can soak through the shingles and begin leaking into your living space. This can create serious structural damage, ruin your personal belongings, and eventually lead to mold growth. Thus, it’s crucial to clear your gutters of all leaves, dirt, and debris to make sure they can work as intended.

3. Winterize Your Pipes

Water damage is one of the most common reasons homeowners insurance claims are filed. This type of claim can often be avoided by examining your pipes for cracks and leaks and having them repaired before a drop in temperature causes them to worsen. Once that’s done, make sure they are insulated well enough to keep them from freezing and bursting. 

In addition to making sure your home is physically ready to withstand winter, it’s also essential to review your current homeowner’s insurance policy. The professionals at Town and Country Insurance Agency will help insure you have all the coverage you need to mitigate your financial loss in the event of a disaster. Having served the residents of Augusta County, VA for over two decades, they know how to identify any areas where you may be lacking protection. If you’re looking for the peace of mind that having the right insurance can provide, contact them at (540) 221-2465. You can also visit their website to learn more about the products they offer.