Maine Coast Home Design

To get a mortgage you will normally at least need buildings insurance to protect you from financial losses if the house itself is destroyed or damaged, but you would need full home insurance including contents insurance to cover your belongings as well. Even if you do have full home insurance however, you may not be aware that if your home is not properly maintained then your insurance policy could be invalidated. This could mean you are left with the bill for any repairs, or in the worst case scenario, rebuilding your house if the problems were due to a lack of basic maintenance.

There are some simple steps you can take to maintain your home to prevent problems. These will help you to comply with the terms of your home insurance policy and will also avoid help you avoid the hassle any damage and having to make a claim.

Avoid dampness caused by water seeping into walls by checking that gutters are not blocked up by leaves and debris. The damp course should be checked to make sure it is not clogged, as this can also lead to dampness which can be troublesome and expensive to repair.

Regularly check the roof for damaged or missing tiles. Faults in your roof tiles could not only allow the rain to leak in, but could also fall or blow off the roof and cause injuries to people or damage to cars below. Have your chimney checked for blockages to prevent chimney fires and dampness where materials have built up trapping moisture against your walls.

Look over the exterior paintwork on your house. This paint protects your walls and wooden window frames from the wind and rain, and it is much easier and cheaper to repair if you catch it early before any water has gotten in and caused damage.

You should be aware that any trees near your property can cause a lot of damage, for example if the roots get into your foundations. Look for any damaged or rotten branches that could blow down in high winds and cause injury or damage your home. If a damaged tree comes down in a storm, and your insurer thinks that you ought to have had the tree cut down or otherwise treated, they might refuse to pay you for the cost of any repairs. It is up to you to make sure that any trees on your property are properly maintained. If you think any of your neighbours trees could damage your property then do let them know because they could be liable.

Within the house, replace any worn or damaged electrical cables, and fit smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. These are all inexpensive things to do that could save you a lot of time, trouble and expense in the long run.

Finally, remember to inform your insurance company if you make any major home improvements, otherwise if these are damaged you may not be covered for rebuilding or repairs for the improved aspects of your home.