It Really Is Springtime, So Schedule These Home Maintenance Activities Now

I wrote the title of this blog using Springtime because the calendar says it’s Spring.  I’ve lived in New England for 50 years and don’t let weather influence my mood or activities very often.  However, this winter has run it’s course and is now straying into the coveted Spring that is always so beautiful here in Connecticut.
One of the first anxious moments for me around Spring is when the snow melts at my home and office.  I look out through dirty windows and see bare patches in my grass, fallen branches and injured shrubs and trees.  Ugh, every year I just turn away from the window in disgust and commit to getting all of my Spring repairs and maintenance done by the end of May so I can enjoy the summer.
So, with that date in mind, again, I plan to address home property maintenance tips first and then get outside when the temperature warms up to take of landscaping needs.  Below is a good list compiled from my home and from The Travelers Insurance personal insurance website:

• Inspect your smoke detectors, and make sure that there is one on each floor of your home. Test them monthly, and change the batteries annually or as needed.
• Check the light bulbs in all your fixtures to be sure they are the correct wattage as recommended by the manufacturer.
• Replace all high-intensity bulbs (such as incandescent) with fluorescent bulbs that do not produce as much heat.
• Check your electrical outlets for potential fire hazards such as frayed wires or loose-fitting plugs. Be sure not to overload electrical outlets, fuse boxes, extension cords or any other power service.
• If you have an electric fence for you dog, inspect the line and be sure it is buried when crossing your open lawn areas.
• Keep a multi-purpose fire extinguisher accessible, filled and ready for operation.  Probably more than one and especially near outdoor cooking equipment.
• Have your air conditioning system inspected by a professional as recommended by the manufacturer.
• Check for damage to your roof, and clean gutters and downspouts to keep debris from accumulating.
• Check your roof for mold, fungi growing on it.  Have a professional clean the roof if there is growing fungi.
• Check water heater for leaks and corrosion.
• Clean or replace your furnace filter.
• Clean the clothes dryer exhaust duct and space under the dryer. Remove all lint, dust, and pieces of material.
• Remove all dead trees in your yard, and keep healthy trees and bushes trimmed and away from utility wires.
• Safely store oil and gas for lawn equipment and tools in a vented, locked area.
• Repair cracked, broken or uneven driveways and walkways to provide a level walking surface.

Take the above list and add your own items unique to your property.  With today’s homeowners insurance underwriting and pricing models it is more important than ever to maintain your home.  Mitigating hazards and preventing damage are your best defense against high homeowners insurance premiums.
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