Spring Cleaning Tips That Safeguard Your Home — and Your Insurance

Spring is the perfect time to refresh your home, both for comfort and for safety. But beyond dusting off shelves and scrubbing baseboards, your spring cleaning checklist can also help protect your investment and lower your risk of future insurance claims. At Scurich Insurance Services, we believe prevention is one of the most powerful tools homeowners have — and spring is an ideal season to get proactive.

Here are four smart spring cleaning tips that not only improve your home’s appearance but may also help you avoid costly damage and insurance headaches down the road.

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1. Check and Clean Your Gutters and Downspouts

Over the winter, gutters tend to collect leaves, dirt, and debris. When clogged, they can cause water to back up under your roof or overflow near your foundation, leading to water damage, mold, or even structural problems — all of which could result in home insurance claims.

✅ Tip: Use a ladder to inspect and clean your gutters, and make sure downspouts are draining at least five feet away from your home’s foundation. Consider installing gutter guards for longer-term protection.

Insurance Tie-In: Water damage is one of the most common reasons for homeowners insurance claims. Regular gutter maintenance helps you avoid filing a claim that could impact your rates.

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2. Inspect the Roof for Loose or Damaged Shingles

Winter storms and high winds can wreak havoc on your roof. A missing shingle today can become a leaky ceiling tomorrow — and by the time water makes its way inside, repairs may already be costly.

✅ Tip: From the ground or using binoculars, look for loose, curling, or missing shingles. If you notice any issues, schedule a professional roof inspection.

Insurance Tie-In: Insurance policies typically cover damage from sudden incidents, but not problems caused by neglect. Regular inspections show your insurer that you’re doing your part to prevent avoidable damage.

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3. Service Your HVAC and Clean Vents

Before temperatures climb, it’s a great time to check your heating and cooling systems. A neglected HVAC system not only runs less efficiently but can become a fire hazard, especially if ducts are clogged with dust and debris.

✅ Tip: Change filters, vacuum air vents, and schedule a professional inspection to ensure your system is in top shape.

Insurance Tie-In: Fires caused by neglected appliances or systems can lead to serious damage. Many insurance companies view regular maintenance as a sign of responsible homeownership, which may work in your favor when it comes to rates or claims.

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4. Check Smoke Alarms, CO Detectors, and Fire Extinguishers

Spring is a great time to test your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors, and replace the batteries if needed. Also, make sure your fire extinguishers are properly charged and not expired.

✅ Tip: Use the change of seasons as your reminder to test all safety devices and replace anything that isn’t working correctly.

Insurance Tie-In: Having operational safety devices in your home not only protects your family — it may also earn you a home insurance discount with some carriers.

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Final Thoughts: Prevention Is Protection

At Scurich Insurance Services, we encourage our clients to look at spring cleaning as more than just a seasonal ritual. It’s a critical component of home risk management. By taking simple, preventative steps each spring, you reduce your chances of filing an insurance claim and help ensure your policy is there when you need it most.

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Need a Home Insurance Review?
Whether you’re looking for better coverage, lower rates, or just want to make sure your policy still fits your needs, our local experts are here to help. Request a free insurance review today and enjoy peace of mind this season.