News You Can Use: Insurance
Prepare Now or Repair Later
Easy, inexpensive home maintenance now could save homeowners time, money later
This spring, homeowners should make time to inspect their homes for signs of wear and tear that could lead to costly repairs if left unchecked. Simple maintenance, such as replacing a worn washing machine hose, only costs about $10 and takes minimal time. The clean-up from water damage caused by a cracked or broken hose could take days and several hundred dollars.
According to the Insurance Information Institute (III), the top three causes of homeowners' claims in 2006 were: fire, lighting and debris removal; wind and hail damage; and water damage and freezing. Water damage, including damage caused by broken hoses and pipes, alone accounted for roughly 20 percent of losses incurred by homeowners in 2006.
"Spend some time this weekend checking different areas of your home for warning signs of possible trouble down the road," said Dave McMullen, director of insurance at AAA. "A little time and money invested now in simple repairs can help you avoid a serious headache later."
Homeowners should keep the following tips in mind to help catch potential problems:
- Check washing machine hoses and water connections on refrigerators with automatic ice makers for cracks and signs of wear and tear.
- Inspect water heaters for leaks and other signs of age, such as rusting.
- Clean heat ducts to remove dust and lint, which can create a fire hazard if left unchecked.
- Check frequently damp areas in the basement or bathroom for mold or dry rot.
- Regularly clean gutters and remove tree limbs, leaves and other debris from roofs as these can cause rain water to puddle and leak through the roof.
- Repair damaged, loose or missing roof shingles to avoid leaks and other potential damage. Shingles can be purchased at home improvement stores for about $25.
- Remove tree branches that threaten your home. Schedule an appointment with an arborist if you have any concerns about the health of trees on your property.
- Furnaces and air conditioning systems should be checked by a professional at least twice a year to ensure it is in proper working order.
- Schedule an appointment for chimney inspection and cleaning every year to reduce the risk of fire and carbon monoxide poisonings.
AAA has been providing insurance services since 1946. For more information on AAA homeowners insurance and home maintenance tips, please call 888-222-9407 or visit www.AAA.com/insurance