Easy peasy tips to maintain the life of your home

Holy Hannah, I cannot believe Fall is already here.  With the shorter days and cooler weather comes a little home prep to keep you claims-free and extend the life of your home. Consider the following list of to-dos to maintain the health of your home and stop a problem before it starts:

• Hire a qualified technician to inspect your home heating system.  Clean and replace the furnace filter as needed
• If it permits, insulate water pipes in areas exposed to cold temperatures
• Can your roof withstand another winter of wear and tear? Check for damaged or loose shingles and the stability to hold up against the weight of wet leaves, ice and snow
• Drain your garden hoses of water before storing them away for winter
• Clean your gutters and downspouts
• Check and repair caulking around doors and windows that show signs of deterioration
• Have the chimney inspected to ensure it is okay for use
• Inspect your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors, ensuring you have a working one on each floor. It’s always a good idea to check these monthly and to change the batteries at least once a year
• Trim any tree limbs that are close to power lines or the roof of your home. Snow, ice and storms can cause limbs to snap.

We also have an incredibly useful, ready-to-print, checklist for what should be done inside and out. Check it out here: Fall Maintenance Checklist