Home Maintenance Checklist

---

One of the best ways you can save money on your insurance is by properly maintaining your home. This is as simple as routinely inspecting water pipes, appliance hoses and other features of your home that can fail and cause major damage.

If you take it a step further and retrofit your home to better withstand natural disasters common to your location, you may be eligible for additional insurance discounts.

Home Maintenance Checklist
	Replace standard hoses on washing machines, dishwashers and icemakers with flexible reinforced hoses. Regularly inspect the hoses and consider replacing them every 5 years.
	Drain and clean your water heater as recommended by the manufacturer; inspect it annually for rust, cracks and leaks.
	When turning the air conditioner on for the season and during monthly use, pour a cup of mild bleach solution down the drain line to reduce algae and mold. Check the drip pan under the evaporator coils monthly for standing water.
	Cracks or mold on caulking around tubs, showers and sinks may indicate the seal is no longer water tight. Remove old caulk, clean thoroughly and dry before applying new caulk.
	Inspect your roof, looking for cracked or missing shingles, rotted wood or exposed areas near vents, vent pipes and chimneys. If you cannot get on your roof, hire an inspector or roofing company to check it annually. Use silicone caulk around chimneys, skylights and vents and replace missing or damaged shingles and flashing.
	Clear gutters once or twice each year, replacing deteriorating wood around them. Ensure downspouts are connected properly and carry water away from the foundation.
	Insulate pipes that are susceptible to freezing and seal gaps around outside pipes and faucets to maintain heating inside your home.
	If your home has a sump pump system, test it regularly and clear away debris. If possible, choose a system with back-up battery power and test the batteries regularly.
	Make sure everyone in your household knows where the main water valve is and how to turn off the water. Before traveling, turn off the water at the main valve or at major appliances.
	If you are building or remodeling your home, consult with builders and your insurance company to choose the best type of shower pan and installation method for your area. Remember that pans will eventually fail as a result of water penetration through cracked tile grout or deteriorated caulk.
	Check and replace the fill valve or float if your toilet tank takes a long time to fill or the toilet runs constantly.