2026 April 07
As we head into the winter months, it’s a good time to do an “Autumn clean” up around your property to help set you up for when any bad weather may occur.
This is important not just to minimise any damage but also because insurance companies require a ‘duty of care’, meaning that a reasonable level of maintenance is required to meet the conditions of your cover.
Here are our top tips for some easy maintenance that can help prevent you from having to lodge an insurance claim.
1. Clean out your gutters and drains
Clogged gutters and drains are the primary culprit for winter water damage. When debris backs up, the rain has nowhere to go. This can cause water to pool at the base of your house, and, in some cases, can leach into your basement.
By ensuring your gutters and drains are clear it helps to keep water flowing freely and away from the house.
If you have a two-storey home, we strongly suggest bringing in the experts to help with gutter cleaning to help avoid any nasty accidents!
2. Inspect your roof
While you are cleaning out your gutters check that flashings are secure and, if you have roof tiles, that none are lose or broken
This can help to avoid water seeping into the timber framing and any underlay. It can also help prevent any large leaks, which may then cause damage to the interior of the home.
3. Trim your trees and hedges
Cutting back overhanging branches helps to reduce any damage in the case of a storm, particularly trees that are close to your house and may cause damage to your roof or windows if they fall.
Also consider any overhang near power lines running across the property. Never of course however attempt to trim branches near utility lines yourself!
4. Check your fences
If you have fences bordering your property, make sure they are secure and don’t need any repairs so they can withstand the force of any high winds.
Look for "wobble" in the posts, discoloration at the base (indicating rot), and rusted or loose fasteners
This will not only help prevent damage to your property but also to the neighbours.
Protect your assets
A little outdoor maintenance can go a long way to ensuring you have a ‘damage-free’ winter as well as protecting your most value asset.
You’ll also feel good having given your property a bit of a spruce up!