Spring Home Maintenance Tips to Protect Your Home and Wallet
Spring Home Maintenance Tips
When winter says goodbye, it leaves behind more than just muddy footprints—your home could be hiding problems caused by cold weather. Spring is the perfect time to give your house a little TLC. Regular maintenance now can help you avoid big repair bills and even prevent homeowners insurance claims later. Check out the following Spring home maintenance tips.
Let’s walk through a smart, seasonal checklist to keep your home happy, healthy, and covered.
1. Inspect the Roof and Gutters
Winter storms can be tough on your roof. Look for missing shingles, loose flashing, or sagging gutters.
- Clear out leaves and debris from gutters and downspouts.
- Ensure water flows away from your home’s foundation.
- If water backs up, it can cause interior damage—and that’s a claim you don’t want.
Pro tip: Use binoculars or a drone for a safe DIY roof inspection, or hire a pro.
2. Check for Water Damage Inside and Out
Water damage is one of the top reasons homeowners file insurance claims. Stay ahead of it!
- Look under sinks and around the water heater for leaks.
- Check your basement or crawl space for moisture or mold.
- Walk around your foundation for cracks or signs of settling.
Seal any gaps you find, and repair leaks immediately. Prevention costs far less than a major claim.
3. Test Your Sump Pump
Sump pumps are the unsung heroes during spring rainstorms.
- Pour a bucket of water into the pit and watch it activate.
- Make sure the discharge pipe routes water far from your home.
A failed pump during heavy rain can flood your basement—a messy and expensive event.
4. Service the HVAC System
Spring is the perfect time to tune up your air conditioning.
- Replace air filters (a clean filter can cut energy use by 15%).
- Clear leaves and debris from the outdoor unit.
- Have a professional inspect the system before peak season.
Many insurers recommend annual maintenance to reduce fire risks and improve efficiency.
5. Examine Windows and Doors
Cold weather can damage seals and frames.
- Check for drafts and re-caulk as needed.
- Replace cracked glass and clean weep holes in sliding doors.
- Add weatherstripping to reduce cooling costs.
Tight seals help keep pests out—and save money on energy bills too.
6. Clean and Inspect Outdoor Areas
Decks, patios, fences, and walkways take a beating in winter.
- Power wash surfaces and check for rot or loose boards.
- Re-stain or seal wood decks to prevent damage.
- Fix uneven paths that could cause trips and falls (liability risk alert!).
Keeping these areas in good condition can help avoid injury-related claims on your homeowners policy.
7. Trim Trees and Shrubs
Overgrown limbs can be a hazard in spring storms.
- Trim branches away from the roof and power lines.
- Remove dead limbs that could fall.
Fallen trees and branches are common causes of storm damage claims. A little pruning now can save a lot later.
8. Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Safety first—especially before you open up windows and start grilling again.
- Replace batteries and test all alarms.
- Make sure there’s a working detector on every floor.
Some insurance companies offer discounts for homes with properly installed alarms. Bonus!
9. Clean Out the Dryer Vent
Lint is flammable and can build up fast.
- Disconnect the vent and vacuum it out thoroughly.
- Clean the area behind and beneath the dryer.
Dryer fires are more common than people think—and completely preventable with spring cleaning.
10. Review Your Homeowners Insurance Coverage
While you’re in spring-cleaning mode, take a few minutes to:
- Review your homeowners policy.
- Check your coverage limits and deductibles.
- Ask Huff Insurance if you’re eligible for discounts or need any updates.
A lot can change in a year—renovations, purchases, or even changing risk factors. Don’t let gaps in your policy surprise you after a loss.
FAQs About Spring Home Maintenance
1. Why is spring the best time for home maintenance?
Spring reveals damage caused by winter. It’s also milder weather—perfect for outdoor tasks. Catching issues early helps avoid bigger, costlier repairs.
2. How can maintenance prevent homeowners insurance claims?
Proper upkeep reduces risks like water damage, fire, and liability. Insurance may not cover damage caused by neglect or lack of maintenance.
3. What’s the most important task on the list?
Roof and gutter inspection is critical. A small roof leak can cause thousands in interior damage—and it may not be covered if due to wear and tear.
4. Should I hire a professional for everything?
Not necessarily. Many tasks are DIY-friendly, but things like roof inspection, HVAC service, or major plumbing should be left to pros.
5. What if I find damage—should I call Huff Insurance?
If the damage might lead to a claim, yes. It’s a good idea to talk with us first—we’ll help you understand what’s covered before you file a claim.
Contact Huff Insurance—Your Trusted Independent Agent Since 1960
At Huff Insurance, we’ve helped homeowners protect what matters most for over 60 years. As an independent insurance agency, we don’t work for one company—we work for you. That means we can compare policies from multiple insurers to get you the right coverage at the right price.
Need help reviewing your homeowners policy this spring? Give us a call or visit www.huffinsurance.com. We’re here to make insurance simple, personal, and effective.
