Fall Checklist

The kids are back in school and the next holiday is several weeks away, freeing time to brush up our homes and vehicles before winter. On average, last winter was colder and with more snowfall than previous years. You won’t want to be stuck doing these things this winter! Here are a few places to start brushing up this month.

Preventing Water Damage

• Clean gutters and downspouts
  Debris build-up can clog the drainage system, causing water to drain near your foundation. Standard homeowner’s policies do not cover water damage caused by repeated, unattended drainage problems.
• Sump Pump
  When water seeps into the ground under your home, water enters the sump pump and is pumped out away from your home.  Test your system by pouring a bucket of water into the pit to make sure the pump starts automatically and the water drains quickly once the pump is on. Also, make sure you have a battery backup
• Roof
  
  Do you have any strategically placed buckets around the house? Inspect your roof for damage or leaky vents. A leaking roof can lead to health issues and structural damage. Basic homeowner’s policies do not cover water damage caused by continuous water seepage or leakage. If you’re unsure about your water or mold coverage, contact Jones Insurance & Associates for further assistance. 
• Winterize PipesDrain outdoor hoses, faucets and irrigation systems. Some types of sudden and accidental water incidents, including burst pipes, may be covered by your policy. However, there are many preventative measures that can be taken. Additionally, coverage for mold resulting from this damage is usually excluded.

Immaculate Interior

• Smoke Detectors
  "I change the batteries in my smoke detectors every six months," said Jayson Jones of Jones Insurance & Associates. Jones highly recommends testing your smoke detectors often. But, not only that--age them! The lifespan of a smoke detector is 10 years.
• Windows
  For now, love the fresh autumn air. When winter comes, we will want a tightly sealed interior. Seal around windows and doors with weather-stripping and caulk to keep your heat up and energy bill down.
• Furnace Filter/Fireplace
  A clean filter works easier, better, and minimizes your bill. If unattended, clogged filters can cause a fire. Experts recommend cleaning your filter every one to three months depending on the type.

Excellent Exterior

• Pavement
  Repair damaged sidewalks, driveways and steps. As a property owner, you can be liable if a person is injured as a result of a hazardous condition on your property. Review your homeowner's liability coverage for more information.
• Trim Trees
  Monitor the health of trees and limbs in your yard. If any limbs look like they could fall, trim them now so they don’t collapse under snow and ice. For futher explanations of legal liability and what damage insurance may cover, refer to your homeowner's policy or contact Jones Insurance & Associates.

On the Go

• Clean your car’s interior.
• Want a newer vehicle for winter, maybe with four-wheel-drive? Before your purchase, reach out to Jones Insurance & Associates for a free quote!

Melinda Warren
Jones Insurance & Associates Contributor