Home Maintenance and Insurance for Homeowners: Are They Connected?

Does homeowners insurance cover preventative maintenance? Not typically – homeowners insurance covers repairs that are necessary due to sudden and accidental damage caused by covered perils. But, failing to perform maintenance could lead to claim denials if damage results from negligence. Maintaining the upkeep of your home, then, is an investment in the value of your property and possibly the efficacy of your insurance policy. 

In this article, we will further explain the connection between homeowners maintenance and insurance, learn about some of the discounts insurers may offer for upkeep, and explore the benefits of some of the DIY tasks and professional services homeowners are wise to consider.

The Connection Between Maintenance and Insurance

In a nutshell, the connection between maintenance and insurance is risk. Insurance companies prioritize homeowners who demonstrate responsibility and a proactive approach to maintenance because it directly lowers their risk of claims. 

Regular upkeep – such as fixing leaks, cleaning gutters, and maintaining HVAC systems – shows an insurer that you’re committed to preventing damage before it occurs. This makes you a low-risk policyholder, which insurers value highly because it reduces their exposure to costly payouts.

Being low-risk also means that you’re less likely to file frequent or preventable claims. For example, maintaining your roof or addressing minor plumbing issues can prevent major water damage or structural problems, both of which are expensive for insurers to cover. This signals to insurance companies that you’re responsible, which can result in lower premiums, discounts, or even faster claim approvals.

Additionally, a preventative mindset and safety-conscious behavior reduces the likelihood of emergencies like fires, leaks, or theft, making your property safer and less costly to insure. Insurers view these efforts as a sign that you care about protecting both your home and their investment, solidifying your status as a preferred policyholder.

How Home Maintenance Affects Your Insurance Premiums

Homeowners insurance providers often offer a variety of discounts and benefits to reward responsible homeowners and reduce premiums. These incentives are typically tied to proactive safety measures, maintenance, or upgrades that reduce the insurer’s risk. Here are some common insurer-acknowledged discounts and benefits:

• Home Security System Discount
  
  Installing burglar alarms, motion sensors, or surveillance cameras can reduce the likelihood of theft or vandalism. Many insurers offer discounts for professionally monitored systems. Savings: Up to 20%

• Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detectors
  
  Homes equipped with working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors often qualify for discounts, as these devices reduce the risk of fire or smoke-related claims. Savings: Typically 5-10%

• Claims-Free Discount
  
  Homeowners who avoid filing claims for several years may be rewarded with lower premiums. Savings: Varies; often 5-20%

• Recently Renovated Home Discount
  
  Homes that are recently updated with modern systems (e.g., electrical, plumbing, roofing) pose fewer risks and often qualify for lower rates. Savings: Up to 20%

• Stormproofing & Weatherproofing Discounts
  
  Installing features like impact-resistant roofing, hurricane shutters, or reinforced windows can qualify you for discounts in areas prone to severe weather. Savings: 10-15%

• Energy-Efficiency or Green Home Discounts
  
  Adding energy-efficient systems like solar panels, upgraded insulation, or energy-efficient HVAC systems can lead to reduced premiums. Savings: Varies, typically 5-10%

• Fire-Resistant Materials Discount
  
  Homes renovated using fire-resistant materials (e.g., brick, cement, or metal roofs) may qualify for lower premiums, particularly in wildfire-prone areas. Savings: 5-15%

Next let’s look at some specific tasks that will help you solidify the connection between homeowners, maintenance, and insurance. We’ve first organized 10 DIY homeowners insurance maintenance recommendations by frequency, followed by 10 professional services recommendations – in each case noting why they’re considered beneficial. 

10 DIY Tasks Homeowners Insurance Providers Recommend

Monthly

1. Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Replace batteries as needed.
2. Inspect faucets, toilets, and pipes for leaks. Address small issues before they escalate. 

Seasonally

3. Clean gutters and downspouts. Avoid overflow that could damage your foundation.
4. Check windows and doors for drafts; reseal gaps. Improves energy efficiency.
5. Inspect the roof from the ground. Spring/Fall; look for missing shingles, visible damage.
6. Trim overhanging tree branches. Prevents storm damage.

Annually

7. Drain and clean the water heater. Reduces sediment buildup, prevents leaks.
8. Pressure wash exterior surfaces. Reduces buildup; preserves structural integrity.
9. Test outdoor sprinklers and shut off valves. 
10. Review and update your home inventory. Keep documentation of valuables.

10 Professional Services Homeowners Insurance Providers Recommend

Seasonally

1. HVAC inspection/maintenance. Spring/Fall; clean filters, inspect ducts, check efficiency.
2. Pest control services. Spring/Summer; prevents infestations.

Annually

3. Roof inspection, minor repairs. Ensure there are no leaks, cracks, or loose shingles.
4. Chimney cleaning. Fall; avoid fire hazards caused by creosote buildup.
5. Plumbing inspection. Check for leaks, corrosion, or issues that could lead to damage.
6. Electrical system inspection. Address outdated wiring or overloaded circuits.
7. Foundation inspection. Check for cracks or shifting to prevent long-term damage.
8. Gutter cleaning and repair. Professionals handle hard-to-reach areas, ensure drainage.

Every Few Years

9. Septic tank pumping. Every 2-3 years; avoid sewage backups.
10. Home security installation, monitoring. Install/maintain alarms, cameras, smart locks.

At Independent Insurance Associates, we are dedicated to finding you the best homeowners insurance for the best price. Let us help you discover cost-saving options while providing excellent coverage for your most significant investment. Give us a call to compare rates and review your current policy today!