Spring cleaning tips to prevent home insurance claims

As the snow melts away and flowers begin to bloom, Canadian homeowners gear up for the annual ritual of spring cleaning. However, beyond just aesthetics, spring cleaning and maintenance can play a pivotal role in protecting your home. 

In this article, we'll explore ten spring cleaning tasks you can complete inside and outside of your home to help you prevent common home insurance claims.

Exterior spring cleaning and maintenance tips

1. Clear gutters and downspouts

Clogged gutters and downspouts can cause water leaks and pooling in and around your home. To prevent this potential water damage, remove the debris from your gutters that has accumulated over the winter. Ensure downspouts are clear to allow for proper drainage away from your home.

2. Take a look at your roof and chimney

A leaky roof can result in costly water damage. Take the time to inspect your roof for signs of wear and tear, such as damaged or missing shingles, leaks or sagging. Consider hiring a professional for a thorough assessment and timely repair. Don’t forget to inspect your chimney for any blocks or damages and repair them right away.

3. Inspect your driveway and sidewalk

Uneven sidewalks and driveways can be hazardous, especially during wet and frosty spring conditions. Inspect these areas for cracks and holes, and patch them up promptly to prevent tripping accidents. 

4. Maintain trees

Falling trees can cause significant damage to your home and pose a serious danger to residents. Inspect the trees on your property, looking for warning signs like a leaning trunk, rotten roots, missing or cracked bark and falling branches. Hire a professional to trim back branches or remove trees if necessary.

5. Repair damaged fences

Secure fences not only enhance privacy but also provide safety and security for your property. Check for any damage or weaknesses in your fences, and ensure they lock properly, especially if you have a pool or water features. 

Interior spring cleaning and maintenance tips

6. Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors

Use spring cleaning as your reminder to change the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Once you’ve exchanged the old batteries for new ones, test all the detectors in your home to ensure they're in working order. These lifesaving devices can alert you to potential fire or gas hazards, providing invaluable peace of mind for you and your loved ones.

7. Remove lint from your dryer vent hose

Built-up lint in your dryer's vent hose poses a serious fire risk. To reduce this hazard, wipe or vacuum out the lint from the dryer hose and clear any debris from the exterior vent. Continue to regularly empty your dryer’s lint trap after every use.

8. Replace air filters

Clean air filters are essential for keeping your HVAC system running properly. Replace your air filters to avoid clogs, improve indoor air quality and prolong the life of your HVAC system.

9. Seal doors and windows

Drafty doors and windows can let water into your home, which can lead to water or mould damage. To prevent potential insurance claims, caulk all gaps and switch out any old or damaged weather stripping. Also, replace any broken or damaged window screens. 

10. Check the basement

If your home has a basement level, check the walls and ceiling for signs of cracks or leaks. Catching these issues early can help prevent potential water or mould damage claims. While in the basement, don’t forget to inspect your sump pump and hot water tank. Call a professional to service or replace them if necessary.  

When it comes to protecting your home and avoiding insurance claims, a little prevention goes a long way. By following these simple spring cleaning tips, you can ensure that your home remains safe and secure for you and your loved ones. Make spring cleaning an annual tradition and reap the rewards of a well-maintained home for years to come.

Review your home insurance coverage

Use spring cleaning as an opportunity to review your insurance coverage. It’s important to know you have the coverage you need to get back to where you started in the event of a loss.

If you're a current Orbit policyholder and have questions about your home insurance coverage, call an Orbit insurance broker to review your policy or learn more about your coverage options.

If you're shopping for home insurance and would like to request a quote, contact an Orbit insurance broker.