Homeowners across the UK are being urged to take a closer look at their properties this January to avoid costly mistakes that could void their home insurance.
According to Quotezone.co.uk, home insurance comparison experts, a lack of regular maintenance could leave homeowners vulnerable when making claims, especially in the event of an accident.
With winter’s cold and dark evenings making it difficult to keep an eye on the property, January presents the perfect opportunity to inspect key areas and ensure everything is in top shape.
Experts suggest that skipping these crucial checks can have serious consequences, including the invalidation of home insurance.
Helen Rolph, home insurance expert at Quotezone.co.uk, told The London Property News, “January is a great time of year to get your house in order, the decorations are cleared away and people want a fresh start. It’s ideal timing to tick off our checklist of key items in the home that need some extra TLC.”
“Over the winter, it can be tricky to keep an eye on what’s happening to your property, but we urge homeowners to give their property a thorough inspection when daylight hours return. It’s essential to check roof tiles, gutters, and pipes, and schedule appointments for essential services like the boiler and chimney.”
The expert’s home maintenance checklist for your home
1. Service your boiler
Regular maintenance of your boiler is crucial for ensuring it runs efficiently and safely.
December is the most common month for boiler breakdowns, making early January the ideal time to have it serviced.
If you haven’t serviced your boiler in years, you may find your home insurance won’t cover repairs or replacements.
Some policies offer boiler coverage, but it often needs to be added as an extra.
2. Sweep the chimney
For homes with a fireplace, chimney maintenance is essential. Soot build-up over the winter months can lead to dangerous situations, including fires.
Ensure your chimney is swept annually to keep it safe and to prevent risks.
Failing to do so may render your home insurance invalid in case of a fire.
3. Clear the gutters
Blocked gutters can lead to serious water damage, including leaks, damp, and flooding.
It’s essential to clear your gutters at least once a year to ensure rainwater is effectively carried away from your property.
If blocked gutters cause damage, your insurance may not cover it due to negligence in maintenance.
4. Check and seal the roof
After stormy winter weather, roof tiles and slates can become damaged or missing. Check your roof for any issues and seal any gaps or cracks as soon as possible to avoid leaks.
Preventing water damage early can save you costly repairs and keep your home insurance intact.
5. Insulate pipes
If you’re heading off on holiday, make sure your home insurance covers any potential damage while the property is unoccupied.
For instance, if a pipe bursts while you’re away, but your policy only covers a limited number of unoccupied days, you could find yourself unprotected.
Insulate pipes and check the details of your insurance policy before leaving to avoid being caught out.
Taking the time to complete these simple maintenance tasks will not only help prevent accidents but also protect your home’s value and your insurance coverage. By investing in a little TLC now, you can save money in the long run and keep your home in top condition throughout the year.