Ten Common (And Potentially Costly)
Homeowners Mistakes

We get it – home repairs can be a real pain, not to mention pricey and time-consuming. But ignoring them won’t make them disappear. It usually makes things worse. But finding the time to tackle everything on your to-do list is no small feat. That’s why knowing what needs immediate attention and what can wait a bit is crucial for saving you time, money, and future headaches. 

Here are ten home updates  homeowners often avoid and how to prevent them from turning into bigger, more costly mistakes.

1. Forgetting about (or ignoring) the small stuff.

The toilet that runs constantly. The faucet with a slow drip. The little crack in that one board on the deck. They might not seem like big problems, but they can turn into bigger issues over time. For example, a leaky faucet or running toilet might mean your water bill is higher than it should be. And that small crack could lead to rot, which could require replacing the board—or the entire deck. When you see “small” things around the house, take steps to address them as soon as you can, because it likely will be a lot easier (and cheaper) today or tomorrow than a year from now.

2. Not doing regular checks around the house.

Speaking of seeing things around the house, how often do you look around the house? You’d be surprised how many homeowners haven’t been in their attic or crawlspace for years. It’s a good idea to walk-through periodically to look for issues such as leaks, areas of wear, or other problems. And don’t forget to go outside. How is your roof looking? Do you see any cracks in your siding? Are the seals around your doors and windows solid? It’s important to catch those things before the rainy season begins.

3. Skipping maintenance on your appliances.

Not only will keeping your appliances in good shape ensure they work effectively and prolong their lifespan, but maintenance can also prevent serious risks. For example, when was the last time you cleaned out your dryer exhaust vent? No, not the screen you pull out when you’re doing laundry, but the one on the back or side. Too much lint buildup can cause a fire—so clean it out at least once a year. You should also check the hoses connected to your washing machine and dishwasher. Are they worn? Do they need to be replaced? Do it now, before one fails when you’re not at home and causes significant water damage. Other tips:

• Clean your refrigerator coils at least once a year.
• Clear out your dishwasher’s food filter regularly.
• Vacuum up dust and other debris in window air conditioners before you start using them
• Remember to test your smoke and carbon-monoxide detectors twice a year, installing fresh batteries each time.
• Winterize your home each year.

4. Neglecting other systems.

Your HVAC system needs attention, so it won’t fail when you need it most. Having your furnace, heat pump and/or central AC unit serviced each year before you start using them heavily will alert you of any potential problems. You don’t want to find out that your furnace is out of whack when it’s 30 degrees outside, or that your AC is on the fritz when it’s 95. Change filters at the appropriate intervals, and if it’s been a while since you’ve had your ducts cleaned, consider that as well.

5. Not having a home warranty.

Despite your best maintenance efforts, that air conditioner might break down, leaving you sweltering in the summer. The water heater could stop working, meaning cold showers every morning. Or the refrigerator suddenly won’t get very cold anymore. These things sometimes just happen, and if your appliance is out of warranty, you’re on the hook.

6. Not Addressing Foundation Cracks and Structural Issues 

When it comes to foundation cracks and structural issues, the sneaky culprits can turn into major headaches if left unchecked. Sure, concrete’s tough, but it can still develop cracks over time. This is especially troublesome if water gets in there. 

When rainwater finds its way into those tiny cracks, it’s like a slow but steady erosion party for your foundation, and when winter comes around, frozen water can cause those cracks to really open up.  

So, don’t wait until it’s a full-blown crisis. Get those small cracks fixed early by the pros, and they will save you a ton of money down the road.

7.  Ignoring Roof Leaks and Repairs

Those water stains on your walls and ceiling aren’t just eyesores but serious troublemakers. Tackling roof repairs ASAP is critical to avoiding a cascade of even bigger issues. Sure, water damage to your foundation is bad news, but it’s not the only threat – moisture can also invite mold and even termites into your home! So don’t let a minor leak turn into something more.

8. Having Loose or Exposed Wiring

This seems like a no-brainer, but that’s not a good thing if you see little wires peeking out of your ceiling or walls! Besides giving your home a rundown look, wonky wiring is a serious fire hazard. And if you spot any melted, corroded, or frayed wires, don’t even think about handling them yourself. Play it safe and call an expert.

9. Avoiding Mold, Fungus, or Mildew

Have you spotted mold, fungus, or mildew in your home? Not good! That’s a surefire sign of too much moisture hanging around. Too much moisture can wreak havoc on your home’s structure, and it’s a serious health hazard. So, do yourself and your household a favor and tackle the issue head-on to dodge the nasty effects of long-term mold exposure.

10. Not Addressing Pests

Have you ever spotted the occasional spider or other pests in your home? No big deal – it happens to all of us. But if it feels like you’re playing host to creepy crawlies more often than not, it’s time to take action. Besides being gross, pests bring along some not-so-friendly bacteria and diseases, which is not the kind of company you want hanging around. So, call a pest control company and reclaim your space!   

Your home is one of the biggest investments you’ll ever make, so it pays to be diligent in caring for it. Keep your eyes open around the house. Don’t hesitate to get out the tools or call a professional if needed. Remember, prevention is the best medicine—and that old saying holds true just as much for your home’s health as it does for yours. Contact our insurance team today about your policy coverage needs.