Fall is a great time to prepare your home for the colder months and ensure it’s in good condition to withstand the changing weather. Here’s a fall home maintenance checklist to help you get started:

Inspect and Clean Gutters and Downspouts: Remove leaves, twigs, and debris from gutters and downspouts to prevent clogs and water damage.

Check the Roof: Inspect the roof for damaged or missing shingles and repair as needed.Ensure that flashing around chimneys and vents is secure and sealed.

Seal Windows and Doors: Check for drafts and seal any gaps around windows and doors with weatherstripping or caulk.

Clean and Service the HVAC System: Have your heating system serviced by a professional to ensure it’s working efficiently.Change or clean furnace filters.

Insulate Pipes and Faucets: Insulate exposed water pipes to prevent freezing. Disconnect garden hoses and drain outdoor faucets.

Clean the Fireplace and Chimney: Have your chimney cleaned and inspected before using your fireplace. Clean the fireplace and remove any ashes or debris.

Trim Trees and Shrubs: Trim any overhanging branches that could pose a threat during winter storms.

Inspect and Clean the Siding: Check the siding for any damage or rot and repair as needed.Pressure wash the exterior to remove dirt and mildew.

Check and Clean the Drains: Ensure that storm drains and outdoor drainage systems are clear of debris to prevent water buildup.

Prepare for Winter Emergencies: Stock up on essential supplies like rock salt, snow shovels, and ice melt.Create an emergency kit with flashlights, batteries, candles, and non-perishable food.

Inspect the Attic and Basement: Check for leaks, moisture, and signs of pests in these areas.Consider adding extra insulation to conserve energy.

Check Exterior Lighting: Replace any burnt-out bulbs in outdoor lighting to ensure safety and security during the darker months.

By following this fall home maintenance checklist, you can help ensure that your home remains in good condition and ready for the challenges of the winter season. Regular maintenance can save you money and prevent costly repairs down the road.

For more home tips or to get a quote for home insurance, visit us at WesternMutual.com.

Home insurance is essential for several reasons. Here are some key reasons why you need home insurance:

Property protection: Home insurance provides coverage for the structure of your home and other physical structures on your property, such as a garage or shed. It protects your home against damage caused by perils like fire, lightning, storms, vandalism, and other covered events. If your home is damaged or destroyed, the insurance can help cover the cost of repairs or rebuilding.

Personal belongings coverage: Home insurance also includes coverage for your personal belongings. This includes items like furniture, appliances, electronics, clothing, and other possessions. If your belongings are damaged, destroyed, or stolen, your insurance can help you replace them.

Liability coverage: Home insurance provides liability coverage, which protects you if someone is injured on your property and you are found responsible. It covers medical expenses, legal fees, and other costs associated with the liability claim. For example, if a guest slips and falls in your home and sues you for their injuries, your insurance can help cover the costs.

Additional living expenses: If your home becomes uninhabitable due to a covered event, home insurance can cover the cost of temporary accommodation, meals, and other necessary expenses while your home is being repaired or rebuilt. This is known as loss of use coverage.

Mortgage requirement: If you have a mortgage on your home, your lender will typically require you to have home insurance. It protects their investment in case of damage to the property.

Peace of mind: Having home insurance provides peace of mind, knowing that you have financial protection in case of unexpected events. It allows you to focus on enjoying your home without worrying about the potential financial burdens that may arise from accidents or disasters.

It’s important to carefully review and understand your insurance policy to know what is covered and what exclusions or limitations may apply. Different policies offer varying levels of coverage, so it’s advisable to compare quotes and choose a policy that suits your needs and budget.

To get a quote or discuss how we can help you with choosing your home insurance provider, call us at (800) 234-2103 or get a free 30 second quote on westernmutual.com.