Springtime To-Do List for MA Homeowners Insurance Compliance

Home insurance in New Bedford is an agreement with an insurance company to provide homeowners with financial protection for damage or loss from storms, fire, and many other causes of loss. It is in your best interest to work closely with your New Bedford home insurance company to make sure that you have enough insurance to protect you when you need it the most. Whether you need an insurance quote on a new home or would like to quote your existing policy, our team at Borden Insurance is here to help you achieve your goals of protecting on of your most valuable assets – your home.

While the insurance company offers protection for a covered loss, homeowners are still responsible for the ongoing repairs and maintenance that are a necessary part of homeownership.  Claims can sometimes be denied due to neglect if the damage occurred as a direct result of the homeowner’s lack of care. Spring is the perfect time to make a to-do list that will help you stay on top of regular inspections, repairs, and ongoing maintenance. Once the snow and ice have all melted away, it’s time to go outdoors and start working on your home. Whether you are a DIY (do-it-yourself) kind of person or prefer to hire a professional, don’t delay springtime maintenance any longer than necessary.

HVAC Inspection and Cleaning

Get started by calling out an HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning) professional to come to your home and perform an annual inspection. Many companies will also offer seasonal service, which includes inspection, cleaning, and maintenance in the spring for air-conditioning and another visit in the fall to prepare your heater for the winter season. Make sure that everything is working correctly and that all filters are changed, systems are cleaned, and all equipment is prepped for use when the first hot day arrives in the Southcoast region.

Clean Those Nasty Gutters

While it’s likely you cleaned your gutters in the fall, removing all of those glorious New England leaves, acorns, pine needles, twigs, and debris, spring is an excellent time to do it again. Consider installing “leaf guard” products that reduce the amount of cleaning necessary to keep your gutters free and clear of debris. Your New Bedford home insurance premium might not receive a discount, but you will have peace of mind in knowing that your gutters are clean and that water is being pushed away from your home’s foundation during the next April shower. Speak with your MA homeowners insurance provider if you make any significant improvements to your home, such as all brand new seamless aluminum gutters, gutter guards, and other functional amenities.

Switch Outdoor Equipment

It’s time to clean and put away your snowblower and snow shovel until next year, and a great time to get out your lawnmower, weed-whacker, and wheelbarrow. Clean everything up and make sure your equipment is gassed up, has fresh oil, a clean filter, and is ready to go. That grass will start growing before you know it and you will want to keep it looking great. Check lawnmower blades and consider having them sharpened professionally if it’s been a while since you’ve had that done. Small maintenance work can help you maximize the return on your investment and keep your home looking properly maintained and neat all year long.

Trees and Shrubbery

You will also want to take time to check on trees, particularly any branches that might overhang on top of your home, garage, shed, fence, or other valuable property. Trees that overgrow and reach over into a neighbor’s yard can quickly become a liability that could impact your home insurance in New Bedford if you aren’t careful. Look for any dead branches or signs that your tree might be unhealthy. Contact a professional if you notice any work that you can’t handle on your own or that might be risky.

Hard Surfaces – Driveways, Sidewalks, and Steps

Do a quick inspection of all hard surfaces around your home, including patios, decking, porches, and even the foundation. Driveways, sidewalks, and steps are often the most affected areas, particularly after a long, hard winter. The natural freeze-thaw cycle can cause damage to concrete or asphalt surfaces, so make sure to inspect and take care of any cracks that you notice right away. A seemingly small trip or slip on your property by a visitor can be very costly, and your MA homeowners insurance might not cover this type of liability if neglect can be proven. The sooner you can take care of any damage, the better.

Get a FREE Home Insurance Quote

If you are interested in learning more about New Bedford home insurance or would like to get a fresh quote for MA homeowners insurance, contact our team at Borden Insurance by calling 508-999-3636. Our team of highly trained and experienced agents can help you get the best deal and coverage on home insurance in New Bedford and the surrounding area.