Your home requires constant maintenance and protection. You want it to be a comfortable place to live, and to hold up for years to come. You don’t want to diminish your property’s security, condition or value by not taking care of it.
So, you usually need to undertake regular home maintenance to keep it in good condition. If you do it yearly, you can often keep your home in very good condition throughout its lifetime. Annual maintenance tasks might include:
1. Roof Inspections
Roofs protect your home from to the elements. They must remain sound and strong. Generally your roof lasts between six and ten years, depending on its construction. If the roof becomes damaged, it might let moisture, pests, mold and other debris into the home. It might also compromise the home’s structural integrity. Have repairs made to your roof as soon as you discover them.
2. Foundation Problems
A home’s foundation usually settles over time. Foundation changes can shift the rest of the structure, and might compromise stability. You might notice cracks in walls or uneven flooring that signal foundation problems. Keep an eye on developing problems. Call a professional to help restructure the foundation sooner rather than later.
3. HVAC Inspection
An improperly functioning heating and air system might damage portions of the home, cause fire risks, and cost you more money on energy. You don’t want to go without heat or air when you need it. Therefore, clean and inspect your system yearly, rather than letting it wear out. Shut the systems down any time you begin to notice problems.
4. Drainage Systems
Gutters, drainage ditches and foundation seals help direct water away from the home. If any of these systems become clogged or damaged, they may not move water as they should. This could increase your risks of a house flood. Floods may not have damage protection under your homeowners insurance.
5. Mold and Pest Protection
If pests or mold invade your home, they could do major damage, including to your own health. Have a pest removal expert visit the home at least annually to spray against pests. They can often also inspect the home for mold. If you discover any of these invaders, immediately take steps to protect the home.
Depending on how damage occurred, your homeowners insurance might pay for the repairs. However, homeowners insurance will likely only cover damage for unavoidable and unpreventable damage. It usually won’t cover home damage from normal wear and tear.
Therefore, protect your home to prevent damage that you might have to pay for out-of-pocket. This year, commit to inspecting your home regularly, and you might be able to avoid problems down the road.
Contact us to get a Virginia home insurance quote at (540) 778-1231.