How building maitenance affects your insurance

Most mortgage lenders require you to have at least buildings insurance, but the chances are you will want full home insurance including contents insurance. However, you may not be aware that if you fail to maintain your home properly then you run the risk of invalidating your policy leaving you to foot the bill for any damage.

Here are some simple steps you can take to maintain your home to prevent problems from happening in the first place. These will help you to comply with the terms of your home insurance policy, and to avoid the hassle of any damage to your property and having to then 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.

Check the roof regularly for missing or damaged tiles. Missing or damaged roof tiles could not only cause leaks, but could also fall or blow off the roof onto people and cars below. Check your chimney for blockages to avoid chimney fires and to prevent dampness which can occur if materials build 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 update 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.