Proper Maintenance Can Protect From Insurance Claims

By Jill Reinking - Wyoming Department of Insurance

As winter fades and spring approaches, it’s the perfect time to prepare your home for the new season. Proper maintenance not only protects your property but also helps prevent costly insurance claims. Prepare your home for the season ahead by checking the following items:

Inspect your roof and gutters. Winter weather (and wind) can take a toll on your roof. Check for missing, cracked, or damaged shingles and replace them promptly. Clear gutters and downspouts of any debris to ensure proper drainage and prevent water damage.

Check your foundation. Inspect your home foundation for cracks or signs of shifting caused by freeze-thaw cycles. Seal minor cracks and reach out to a professional for any significant damage.

Service your HVAC system. If you have an HVAC system spring is the perfect time to schedule a tune-up. Replace air filters and ensure your system is ready to keep your home cool.

Inspect and test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Replace all batteries and tech each device to ensure it is working properly

Maintain your outdoor perimeter. Create a defensible space around your home and other buildings. Clear all vegetation within 5 feet of your home and replace it with hardscape materials (gravel, concrete, river rocks). Do not store anything combustible near your home such as firewood potted plants, outdoor furniture, trash cans, pet houses, law tools, within 5 feet of your home.

Examine your windows and doors for cracks or damaged seals. Replace weather stripping or caulk to improve energy efficiency.

Declutter your attic, basement and garage. Safely store valuable items in waterproof containers to protect them from potential water damage.

Spring is also a great time to review your insurance plan. Ensure your policy provides adequate protection for your home and belongings. One important way to do this is to prepare a home inventory. A home inventory is an itemized list of all your possessions. This inventory can help you select the right amount of personal property coverage and potentially speed up a claim on your home policy. There are different methods of doing an inventory.

Written inventory is a comprehensive home inventory list of your belongings. Try to include the item's description (make, model and serial number, if applicable), value where you bought it and the purchase date.

Digital inventory-if you have an iPhone or Android there are apps you can download, some of which are free. These digital home inventory apps usually allow you to record a photograph of the item along with the description, value and purchase date.

Visual record-this can be accomplished with a video walk-through of your home or through a series of photographs along with written descriptions.

This can seem overwhelming, but it is very helpful and can speed up your claim process should you need to file a claim. If you are starting from scratch, pick one room or a hall closet to begin, then move on to the next room as you complete each space. Remember to document new purchases. When you purchase a new item, document and photograph that item and add it to your inventory. Be detailed. Do not simply say “diamond ring” provide the carat size, where it was purchased, diamond quality and a photograph. Finally, do not forget about items in outbuildings, basements, attics or self-storage units.

There are many websites that offer inventory check lists or guides. You can also reach out to your insurance agent for additional information. A little preparation now could save you heartache later.