Summer Tune Up: Get up to Speed on Property Care and Maintenance Routines

The neighborhood is out of hibernation and the summer season is kicking off. Are you one of the homeowners who neglected their property care routines during the winter and spring? You are not alone, but it is not too late to get back on track. There are several essential checks that should be completed annually, including inspecting siding, roofing, outdoor electrical, air conditioning systems and anything else that may need some extra TLC after the cold weather.

Learn how to make a complete summer tune up checklist while reinstating good property care habits and routines. It will make life easier in the long run and make for a much more enjoyable summer.

Start From the Top – Roofing and Siding

A good rule of thumb when peeling the layers of winter off your property is to start from the top and work your way down. Wicked weather may have done a number on your home, and damage may go unnoticed while spending most of your time indoors. Damage to your roof can be virtually “out of sight, out of mind,” so grab that ladder or call your local contractor to inspect the condition of your roof coverings. Be sure to note if there are any missing or damaged components or pieces.

If you discover more damage than normal, which is a result of a peril covered by your insurance policy, consider filing an insurance claim. Replacing part or all of a roof is one of the more expensive repairs a homeowner will make. However, if you are unsure when or how the damage occurred, you may face a complicated claim process. Public adjusters are experts when it comes to navigating the intricacies of filing and documenting property insurance claims. We will partner with you to document and manage your insurance claim. If you do face a major repair or replacement, knowing the claim process will be handled correctly can save you time and provide peace of mind.

In addition to giving your siding a good power washing in the spring, it is also advisable to complete a full walk around your home to make sure the siding is intact. You may consider damaged siding to be a simple cosmetic issue, but if missing or damaged siding is not repaired/ replaced quickly, over time it may affect the integrity of the building due to water damage. Get in touch with the contractor who installed your siding or one of the big box stores to see if they are able to match your color and style.

Outdoor Electric

For everyone’s safety, it is crucial to examine all outdoor electrical connections and hookups before plugging in anything. When working with outdoor electric and lighting, be extra vigilant to prevent injury or potential hazards, especially in wet conditions. All outdoor outlets, lighting fixtures and bulbs should be weatherproof and protected by ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) breakers. Do not forget to turn off outdoor circuits before replacing bulbs or adjusting outdoor lighting. 

It is also worth checking all of your favorite power tools before putting them to work. Often, tools are forgotten in the basement or garage during a long, cold winter and may be in need of a tune up, oil change, or gas refill. When starting them up, be sure to utilize a three-pronged outlet so there is a neutral-to-ground connection, preventing the potential for electric shocks. Never use power tools near flammable liquids or solvents. 

It is also a good time to take notice of power lines around your home. Are they sturdy and not leaning against anything? Strong weather can sometimes shake things up. If you notice anything out of the ordinary, do not attempt to survey the situation yourself. Call your local power company and they will send a professional to safely handle damaged power lines and poles.

Stay Cool – Air Conditioning System Maintenance

Do not wait for the hottest day of the year to inspect your air conditioning system. Stay ahead of the heat by scheduling an annual maintenance check for your AC unit and any accompanying duct work. Make it part of your annual spring-cleaning routine and you will never be left without reliable cooling. Plus, regular maintenance will ensure your system is operating efficiently which can save energy – as well as money on your utility bills.

Neglecting your air conditioning can be costly, but it can also put your home at risk of fire and water damage if your system malfunctions or was installed incorrectly. If you are left with damage from a faulty air conditioning unit, contact a licensed public adjuster. They will know how to approach filing an HVAC-related claim and get you back to comfort.

Suffered Significant Post-Winter Property Damage? Contact AI/BLC.

Many people who suffer through cold winters agree that summer is the best time of year. Do yourself and your family a favor and get all the seasonal chores out of the way early on to avoid headaches later. If your home care routine has fallen by the wayside and you find yourself with significant post-winter property damage, you do not have to deal with it alone. Reach out to one of the licensed public adjusters at Adjusters International/Basloe, Levin & Cuccaro and your claim will be handled by a trusted professional. Here’s to a safe and relaxing summer for everyone!