Homeownership is an exciting but daunting endeavor. While it certainly can be fun, responsible homeownership means you have to eat your broccoli once in a while. Making sure your home is in good condition is part of the job. After all, it keeps your biggest investment protected. Here’s what you need to look for in a DIY Home Inspection to keep your home in tip top shape.
What to Look for: the Exterior
- Evidence of standing water
- Secure railings, balusters or steps
- Branches touching or hanging over your roof
- Vegetation growing up or into your house exterior
- Evidence of animals getting into your home
- Broken glass or screens
- Shingles are not bent, molding or flaking
- Gutters are not sagging or rusted
What to Look for: the Interior
- Sufficient attic insulation that has been properly installed
- Fireplace flue is clean and functional, no cracks/damage in masonry
- Crawl spaces are adequately vented
- Stairway handles are secure
- Leaks under the sink or water heater
- Ductwork is in good condition
Want to Reshop Your Insurance? Get Your House In Order.
Additionally, keeping your home in good repair helps in reshopping your home insurance for a better rate. In today’s hard market, underwriting guidelines are tightening. Therefore, make sure your house is in order before you open Pandora’s Box to a new carrier and their expectations. Here are just a few of the big items to look for in your DIY home inspection- carriers are considering these when they take on a new client:
- Age of the roof – some carriers will not write the business if the roof is over 14 years old
- Overhanging trees too close to the home can be flagged for non-renewal
- Excessive debris on the property is considered a hazard for injury
- Absence of rails or banisters on stairs
Before you move forward with a reshop, contact your advisor at Cincinnatus Insurance– they can look over your policy with you and pursue other options to help you if you’re looking for a lower price. We can help your wallet without compromising coverage or protections. Additionally, our experience with current trends makes us your #1 resource for navigating the insurance market right now!