Home Maintenance Checklist to Prevent Common Insurance Claims

Prevent costly insurance claims before they happen.

​This easy-to-follow home maintenance checklist helps protect your home from avoidable risks like water damage, roof leaks, fire hazards, and liability issues.

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Insurance is there for when the unexpected happens—but a little prevention goes a long way. Some of the most common home insurance claims come from problems that could’ve been caught with a little routine maintenance.
Here’s a homeowner-friendly checklist that can help you avoid costly surprises, protect your property, and maybe even keep your premiums in check.

🔧 1. Check Your Roof (and Gutters)One of the most common causes of home insurance claims? Roof leaks.

Inspect your roof at least once a year (or after big storms) for:

• Missing or curled shingles
• Soft spots or sagging
• Signs of water stains in the attic

Don’t forget the gutters: Clogged gutters can cause water to back up and damage your roof, siding, and foundation. Clean them out every season, especially in the fall.

🛑 Neglected roofs can result in denied claims or higher deductibles depending on the age and condition.

🚿 2. Look for Water Leaks Inside
Water damage is sneaky—and expensive. Take time to inspect:

• Under sinks and behind toilets
• Around your water heater, washer, and dishwasher
• Ceilings and walls for bubbling paint or soft spots
• Exterior hose bibs and irrigation systems

💡 Consider installing inexpensive water sensors under major appliances to alert you before a small leak becomes a major claim.

🔥 3. Test Smoke Detectors & Fire Extinguishers

Fire-related claims can be catastrophic. Help protect your home by:

• Testing smoke and CO detectors monthly
• Changing batteries twice a year (daylight savings is a good reminder)
• Making sure fire extinguishers are up-to-date and easy to access

🔥 Bonus tip: Clean your dryer vents every few months—lint buildup is a common cause of house fires.

🌳 4. Trim Trees and Remove Dead Branches
Overhanging limbs can break during storms and damage your home, vehicles, or even cause injury to others on your property.

• Trim branches away from your roof
• Remove dead or leaning trees
• Watch for signs of rot or disease

🌪️ Fallen trees are a common liability issue and not always covered if deemed preventable.

🧯 5. Inspect Fences, Walkways, and Handrails
These might seem minor, but they play a big role in preventing injuries—and lawsuits.

• Repair broken steps or uneven concrete
• Replace loose or damaged fence panels
• Check that porch railings and stair handrails are secure

🚸 If someone trips or gets hurt on your property, you could be held liable.

🧹 6. Tidy Up the Exterior and Yard
Don’t overlook general upkeep:

• Secure outdoor furniture and decor during storms
• Keep driveways and walkways clear of clutter
• Store lawn tools, bikes, and hoses properly to prevent accidents

🏠 A well-maintained yard not only protects your home—it shows pride in ownership and may be noted during insurance inspections.

📋 Final Thoughts
​A weekend walk-around with this checklist could help prevent the next big claim—and save you thousands in repairs.
Home insurance is there to back you up, but staying proactive keeps your home (and wallet) in better shape.

Need a coverage review or want to check your liability limits?
Corin Insurance Group is happy to walk through your policy and recommend the best ways to protect your home and your peace of mind.

Disclaimer:
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute insurance advice. Coverage eligibility and claim approval vary by carrier, policy, and condition of the property. Please consult your licensed insurance agent for guidance specific to your home and situation.