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Fall Safe

The days are getting shorter, it's getting cooler at night, and it's time to make sure your home is ready for Fall.

As we move into the rainy season, water and moisture issues become even more critical. Homeowner's insurance does cover sudden and accidental damage, but not damage caused over time through lack of maintenance. Because water damage claims can be red flags to insurers and home buyers, it makes more sense to maintain your home than face the risks of increased insurance costs and compromised home marketability.

Gutters, downspouts and drains should be clear of debris, with water directed away from the foundation. Cracked or missing caulk around toilets, tubs, and bathroom cabinets should be repaired or replaced to prevent water seeping into the sub-flooring. Check everywhere for areas of possible water intrusion.

Regular maintenance of home heating systems and chimneys is essential. If you haven't had your furnace checked recently, a plumbing and heating inspector can help you assess its condition. Change furnace filters regularly to help reduce particle counts, and have chimneys swept regularly. To reduce heat loss, make sure all doors, windows and skylights shut tightly; replace weather-stripping and caulking as necessary.

Have a safety plan, and review it with your family. Does everyone know what to do in case of a fire or earthquake? Who to call? Where to go or meet? Keep emergency contact phone numbers in an easily accessible and known place.

Make sure you know the location of your main water shut off valve, and how to use it. Turn off the water to your washing machine when it is not in use, to protect the machine, and against burst hoses.

Install carbon monoxide alarms near your furnace, and all fireplaces; test flashlights, smoke alarms, sump pumps and other such protection systems before you ever need to really depend on them!

Lastly, this a great time of the year to work on your landscape and improve the exterior appeal of your homeÉ fall and winter conditions promote root growth and plant establishment.

Call me for referrals to qualified chimney sweeps, landscapers, plumbing and heating companies, and other service providersÉ and have a safe and happy Thanksgiving!

sherrybenninger@grubbco.com

The GRUBB Co., 1960 Mountain Blvd., Oakland, CA 94611

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