Storm Prep for Homeowners

As we've seen over the past few years, weather can be unpredictable — and when storms hit, they can cause a great deal of damage and heartache for homeowners like you. Taking proactive steps to assess your property before storm season can make a big difference in keeping minor problems from becoming major ones.
 
To help you get going,  here are a few DIY ways you can avoid surprising and costly impacts to your home:

• Give your roof the once over. If you can get on the roof safely, check for leaks and loose shingles. While you’re there, clean roof vents and make a mental note of any further inspections or repairs. Don’t feel comfortable or afraid of heights? Reach out to a roofer you trust.
• Gird up your gutters for spring showers. Check gutters and downspouts to ensure they're draining correctly...away from the house. Consider if now is the time for gutter covers which will drastically reduce how often you need to clean them.
• Ready your deck. As you daydream of backyard barbecues, check decks, stair rails, steps, and other outdoor wood for rotted wood, nail pops, warping, or splintering. If it’s been a few years, consider giving your deck a weekend and a fresh coat of deck stain.
• Inspect hoses, pipes, and shut-off valves. Carefully turn on outside water valves and irrigation systems in the event they froze and/or burst over the winter. Fix leaks and replace gaskets that seem old and likely to crack soon.
• Give your AC some TLC. Remove debris from around the unit, replace filters, and clean ducts and vents. Consider a professional tune-up to address any issues before the summer heat arrives.
• Prep for some serious outdoor fun. Check your yard for fallen objects that could cause family members to trip. Go ahead get your mower in tip-top shape by testing lawn mower blades and sharpening or replacing as needed.
• Test and inspect safety items. Test fire extinguishers, smoke and CO2 alarms, and outdoor lighting. Review your family’s fire escape plan and remind everyone of your designating outdoor meeting place.

Hope this gives you a boost of inspiration to determine what your home needs in the coming weeks. Of course, if you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to give Connecticut Insurance Exchange a call at 860-666-5443. We're here to help!