Seasonal Home Checklist: Maintenance Tips for Summer

Owning a home or a cottage is amazing, but it comes with its share of responsibilities. Taking the time to maintain your home during the summer not only protects the value of your property but can also prevent costly repairs. On top of that, it helps reduce the likelihood of filing insurance claims that could affect your premiums.

We’re here to make it easy for you so follow our practical, step-by-step summer home maintenance checklist to keep everything in tip-top shape so all you have to worry about is your fourth trip to the grill.

Inspect and Clean Your Cooling Systems

A summer without air conditioning? No thanks. Make sure your cooling system is ready to go before those temps start climbing.

• HVAC Maintenance: Change or clean your air filters and schedule a professional tune-up. A well-maintained HVAC system runs more efficiently, saving you money—and stress.
• Ceiling Fans: Dust off your ceiling fans and make sure the blades are rotating counterclockwise to push cool air downward.
• Portable Units: Check and clean any portable fans or AC units to avoid dust buildup.

Taking care of your cooling systems not only keeps you cool but prevents wear and tear that could lead to repairs.

Inspect Roof and Gutters

That summer rainstorm may seem harmless, but if your roof or gutters are in bad shape, it can spell serious trouble.

• Look for missing or damaged shingles. Cracks, curling, or bald spots mean it’s time for repairs.
• Clean out gutters and downspouts. Summer storms can cause blockages, leading to water damage.
• Check your chimney and vents for leaks or debris buildup (yes, even if you don’t plan on lighting a fire anytime soon).

A healthy roof and drainage system prevent costly water damage that could lead to emergency repairs—or expensive insurance claims.

Inspect Windows and Doors

Cooled air escaping through cracks in your windows and doors? That’s like throwing money out the window.

• Check for gaps or drafts and seal them up with weatherstripping or caulk.
• Clean the glass for those optimal summer sunset views (and to prevent debris buildup).
• Make sure locks and hinges work properly for added security—something your insurance provider will appreciate!

Properly sealed windows and doors keep your home energy-efficient and secure, which could help in keeping your premiums stable.

Freshen Up Your Outdoor Space

Your backyard is summer HQ—it’s where the magic happens. Make sure it looks the part (and stays safe).

• Check your deck or patio for loose boards, nails, or cracks. Repair where necessary to prevent accidents.
• Inspect fences and gates for damage and get them fixed to keep your perimeter secure.
• Trim trees and shrubs away from your house or power lines to prevent storm damage or critter invasions.

A little preventative maintenance in the yard can go a long way toward avoiding headaches—and related insurance claims—later on.

Service Your Outdoor Equipment

From lawnmowers to grills, summer equipment puts in a lot of work. Keep it in check.

• Sharpen the blades on your lawnmower and check for oil or fuel leaks.
• Clean your grill (inside and out) to prevent grease fires. Don’t forget to inspect gas lines and propane tanks for any leaks.
• Maintain garden hoses and sprinklers, checking for leaks or clogs to save on water.

Regular upkeep of outdoor gear not only keeps your summer running smoothly but reduces risks that could lead to accidents.

Prevent Pests

Bugs and critters love summer too (unfortunately). Stop them from making their way into your home.

• Seal up cracks in your foundation or baseboards where pests might sneak in.
• Store garbage in tightly sealed bins, and keep the area clean to avoid attracting animals.
• Use natural repellents or pest control services to handle any troublemakers before they multiply.

Keeping pests under control is a win-win: you avoid damage and protect your peace of mind.

Check Fire and Home Safety

Longer days and outdoor activities make summer a prime time for accidents. Stay ahead of any risks by reviewing safety precautions.

• Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Summer is a great time to make sure your batteries are fresh and your alarms are functioning properly.
• Have a fire extinguisher handy and ensure it’s up to date. Grilling season can be delicious but dangerous without it!
• Check outdoor lighting to keep your walkways well-lit and reduce the risk of trips or falls during summer evenings.

Safety measures like these do more than protect your family. They’re essential for avoiding liability claims, too.

Review Your Insurance Coverage

We couldn’t let you go without slipping this tip in: Summer is the perfect time to also give your homeowners insurance policy a quick once-over. Are you covered for weather events common in your area, like summer storms or wildfires? Do you have enough personal liability coverage for that big backyard picnic? If you’re not sure, reach out to your broker (hey, that’s us!) to go over your options.

Stay Summer-Ready

Keeping your home well-maintained during the summer isn’t just about aesthetics or staying comfortable—it’s about protecting your biggest investment. And, while no one likes to think about the “what ifs,” proactive care can go a long way in preventing incidents that might lead to insurance claims, higher premiums, or out-of-pocket expenses.

Got questions or want to make sure your home is fully covered? Let’s chat! We’re here to simplify the world of insurance for you and make sure you’re protected all year round.