PREVENT PROPERTY DAMAGE WITH FALL HOME & BUILDING MAINTENANCE TIPS

Fall is a good time of the year for property owners and managers to inspect the condition of their home or commercial property.  It is also time to perform some preventive maintenance tasks to help ensure the building is in good condition to provide a safe, healthy and comfortable environment for building occupants.

“Preparing a residential or commercial property for the cool fall season and the upcoming winter now can help prevent a number of costly repairs and also help to increase the building’s energy efficiency,” said Douglas Waldie, President of Hudson Douglas Public Adjusters, LLC. “Equally important, some of these tasks could help prevent indoor environmental issues associated with mold and moisture, carbon monoxide and other health and safety concerns.”

The insurance claims and building science professionals at Hudson Douglas Public Adjusters suggest the following actions:

• Change filters for the HVAC system and consider having the furnace checked by a qualified professional.  Also, inspect the air ducts for the buildup of dust and debris.
• Check smoke detectors and carbon monoxide sensors and change out the batteries.
• Properties with chimneys should have them inspected each year and cleaned if necessary.
• Remove leaves and obstructions from gutters and downspouts to prevent ice dams and be sure that water is draining away from the building’s foundation.
• Check the siding for any damage or areas that moisture could enter.
• Check for any damage to the roof and be sure any skylights are properly sealed.
• Check windows and doors for drafts and be sure they are properly sealed.
• Inspect and replace any worn weather stripping.
• Add insulation to any exposed pipes.
• In places with freezing weather don’t forget to shut off and drain any exterior sprinkler systems.  Also, check outdoor faucets for any leaks.
• Trim trees that could cause damage to the property due to broken limbs.
• Consider having asphalt driveways or parking lots sealed.
• Clean and cover outdoor air conditioning components.
• When cold weather arrives and the property is sealed, consider having it checked for the presence of radon.

For those who do experience property damage to their home or business, the professionals at Hudson Douglas Public Adjusters are experts at negotiating and handling insured property damage claims.  Their services ensure that no damages are overlooked and that policyholders receive the most accurate insurance settlement possible.  They also recently sponsored an educational video with fall maintenance tips to provide a healthy indoor environment and prevent property damage. It can be seen at https://youtu.be/aqkOFWnosC8