The first official day of spring is right around the corner—and we cannot wait for March 20th to arrive. If the promise of balmy, breezy days has you itching to dust out the cobwebs, you are in good company. In a 2020 ACI National Cleaning Survey, 78% of households surveyed said they participate in spring cleaning every year.

Did you know that spring cleaning could also help you catch items that may develop into a home insurance claim if not addressed? Keep reading to learn more about what you should keep an eye out for as you embark on your spring cleaning quest!

Battery changes

When was the last time you changed the batteries in your carbon monoxide and smoke detectors? It may be wise to check on them if you cannot remember. Batteries should usually be changed at least once every 6–12 months, depending on the type of detector you are using, but a good rule of thumb is to update the batteries as soon as they begin chirping.

Another good habit to get into is checking all detectors in your home once a month to ensure they still function correctly. Technology can fail, and if it does, you want to catch it as soon as possible.

Check all the caulk in your bathroom and kitchen

As you begin cleaning and freshening up the bathroom, make it a point to check any existing caulk. It may feel like you have just finished caulking up any problem areas, but it never hurts to stay vigilant.

Routine maintenance can prevent many instances of leaking and water damage. However, did you know that water backup coverage is usually not included in standard homeowners’ insurance? We have a blog here that examines the differences between flood insurance and water backup insurance if you want to learn more.

Check up on your dryer

Cleaning out your dryer’s lint trap should be an essential part of your usual laundry routine, but when was the last time you gave the dryer hose and vents the same attention? Lint traps are the first line of defense, but sometimes lint escapes and is trapped in the hose and vents. When lint builds up within your dryer, fire risk increases.

A report from the National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA) found that 31% of home clothes dryer and washer fires were caused after machines were not cleaned properly. While sweeping the laundry area, be sure to check up on your drier and clean out any hidden lint.

Cleaning out your dryer’s lint also allows it to run as efficiently as possible. As a result, cutting down on time to fully dry your clothes could reduce your overall energy bill.

Clean out the gutters

If you need a break from being inside to let the dust settle, make sure you check out your home’s gutters and downspouts. Growing new trees is vital for the environment, but unfortunately, they should not be sprouting in your gutters!

Before you get up on a ladder, be sure to review these seven crucial ladder safety tips. Ensuring that your gutters are clean and able to drain can prevent damage from roof leaks and basement leaks and can also help avoid rotting wood.

We hope this information is helpful during your spring cleaning, and we wish you the best of luck in your endeavors! For more information on insurance policies that will protect your family and home, be sure to check out our website.