Give your home insurance a spring clean

Many of us may be considering giving our homes a ‘Spring clean’ but it is also a good time to check that
our homes are safe and secure.

Our research has highlighted that people don’t always check their home security and safety as often as
they should. The survey revealed that although we do have some home security or safety devices in place, with over 80% having a smoke alarm and 30% a security alarm in their home, worryingly over 50%
admitted that they had never checked their security alarm. So instead of just dusting these things as part of a spring clean, perhaps we need to give them some further attention.

We’ve prepared the following tips to help ensure that home safety and security is not overlooked as we get our properties into shape after the winter.

Spring cleaning your home security

• Check your burglar alarm works or consider installing one if you don’t have one already. These should be regularly checked in accordance with the installers' or manufacturers' recommendations, which normally suggest annually.
• Check locks fitted to all accessible windows are in working order, as they may not have been opened for a while.
• Make sure your shed and any other outbuildings are secure. This may mean replacing any locks that have rusted and repairing any rotting or damaged window frames.
• Get your garden back into shape by cutting back any overhanging trees so that the entrance to your house is not obscured.
• Check trees and shrubs for storm and wind damage so they are not likely to fall on the house and cause any damage.
• Always remember to lock all windows and doors before you leave your home.
• During the warmer months we may be more inclined to leave windows and doors open, so make sure any personal possessions such as handbags, mobile phones and wallets are out of sight if next to open windows and doors.

Home safety

• Inspect your smoke alarms, check batteries monthly to ensure they are working and clear of any dust.
• If you have one, test your fire extinguisher and remove dust build-up from the nozzle. Check that it has a British Standard kitemark.
• Clean out your kitchen oven extractor hood to remove any oil build-up to reduce the risk of fire.
• Clean tumble dryer filters and exhaust duct and area under the dryer to reduce the risk of fire and flood.

Home maintenance

• Check the roof for any missing tiles or cracks in roofing felt.
• Check the guttering and drains for damage and clear any debris.
• Check brickwork for any cracks.
• Check for any debris collection or animal nests such as wasps.
• Check the exterior of the house for mildew.
• Check any woodwork such as wood flooring for woodworm.
• Repair uneven or cracked paths and driveways to reduce risk of slips and trips.
• Check trees and shrubs for wind damage.
• Clear any algae from paths and patios to reduce risk of slips and trips.
• Varnish your shed and fences to protect against weather.
• Service your lawnmower to make sure it’s safe to use.

Find out more about our home insurance cover.