How To Avoid the Three Biggest Home Ownership Blunders

Everyone wants to avoid these three biggies: Roof Damage, Water Damage & Fire Damage.  But, don’t worry, there are plenty of things you can do to prevent these! We’ll give you a rundown of the simple steps to take to keep your home in tiptop shape – what to look out for, how to prevent a problem and the price tag of ignoring it.

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Everyone wants to avoid these three biggies:
  • Roof Damage
  • Water Damage
  • Fire Damage

But, don’t worry, there are plenty of things you can do to prevent these! I’ll give you a rundown of the simple steps to take to keep your home in tiptop shape – what to look out for, how to prevent a problem and the price tag of ignoring it.Take It From The Top – Roof DamageYou remember that last storm that made a lot of noise? All that rain or hail falling on your roof – maybe even a few branches! It isn’t hard to imagine that doing some damage. The problem is that it may remain hidden until the next storm hits. Fear not homeowner,Here’s What You Can Do!

  • In March and September, take out that ladder and look at your roof for damage.
  • If you don’t feel comfortable doing it yourself, hire a professional, which costs up to $200.
  • If you have trees on your property, check them for dead or damaged branches.
  • Remove branches or limbs that could create a mess!
  • If a tree is dead, you might need a professional to remove it. It can fall on your home and wreak havoc.

Average Weather-Related Damage Repair Cost: $7,300Don’t Water This Down – Water DamageYou use your plumbing everyday, but it’s pretty easy to ignore since you never see it. The same goes for your gutters – until they stop working. But, there are a few simple steps that will help you make sure that water stays where it belongs.Here’s What You Can Do!

  • Check the hoses on your appliances regularly.
  • If there’s a leak, replace the hose.
  • If you can see damage to a hose, replace it before it starts to leak!
  • Steels hoses are about $100 and are very durable.
  • Clean your gutters around March and September.
  • If there’s a big storm or you notice all the leaves falling, double check the gutters to make sure they’re clear.
  • You can also hire a professional to clean your gutters, which can be around $200.
  • If you see water anywhere, or hear a leak, contact a professional before it starts to gush!

Average Water Damage Repair Cost: $7,200These are Smoke Signals – Fire DamageMore than 60,000 house fires are caused in the United States each year by faulty heating or electrical equipment. The two biggest concerns here are your heating and cooling system and your electrical distribution system. Regular maintenance to these systems goes a long way.Here’s what you can do!

  • Get your HVAC cleaned and inspected once a year, which costs around $100.
  • It’s best to schedule this during the milder months.
  • Hire a pro to inspect your wiring every couple of years.
  • If it’s old, you should upgrade your wiring, which could be around $500.
  • Replace any outlets that seem problematic, which will run about $100 per outlet.
  • If you have a fireplace, ALWAYS get it inspected in the fall, before you plan to use it.
  • A chimney sweep will clean it out for about $100.

Average Home Insurance Fire Repair Cost: $34,000Yes, home insurance may cover these claims, but you would still have to pay a deductible and experience higher premiums for years, costing you big time. Putting in the time, work or money upfront saves you money and heartache. Now you have a simple checklist to make sure you have all your bases covered. Doing your best to prevent bigger problems is a smart move for any homeowner!

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