Fall is now upon us, and there are different precautions that should be taken care of for your home this fall. There are also crucial things to be aware of this season to prevent possible great losses. Having said that, the following includes different preparation measures that should be taken for your home this fall:
- Have a qualified technician to inspect and clean the furnace annually.
- Keep flammables away from wiring and water heaters in the basement.
- Turn the thermostat up during really cold temperatures, and get water pipes that are exposed in cold temperatures insulated.
- Make sure the chimney is annually maintained and cleaned professionally.
- Check the caulking around the toilet bases, sinks, bathtubs, and showers and make needed repairs.
- Check the caulking around the windows and doors that are deteriorated.
- Check, clean, and repair accordingly the gutters, roof, and downspouts to keep down debris. This will prevent the extra building of leaves in the gutters.
- Remove and clean out the clothes dryer exhaust duct, space underneath the dryer, pieces of material, dust, and lint.
- Check electrical outlets for possible fire hazards, and make sure there’s no overloading of extension cords, fuse boxes, electrical outlets, and all power services.
- Make sure to have a filled and readily operable multi-purpose fire extinguisher.
- Have a smoke detector on each floor of your home, inspect them, have monthly testings, and change the battery as needed.
Taking these steps will get you on your way for safety, to prevent dreadful losses, and to ensure your home insurance rates won’t raise. Most homeowner insurance policies cover damages associated with falling trees, wind, wind driven rain, and collapse caused by snow or ice. There are, however, some damages that homeowners’ policies won’t cover, such as landslides, floods, busted pipes due to negligence from the homeowner, etc. Be sure to contact Hart Insurance for more details.
