Home Maintenance Checklist for Your Florida Home

Owning a home is one of life’s biggest achievements, and it comes with a lot of responsibility. Following a Florida home maintenance checklist can help you stay on top of this responsibility year-round. Just like your car needs regular upkeep to stay safe on the road, your home needs regular maintenance to stay safe, comfortable, and protected.

But here’s the key: While your homeowners insurance is there to help after a covered peril causes damage, it doesn’t cover problems caused by wear and tear or a lack of maintenance.

Understanding the difference between routine maintenance and damage caused by a covered peril can help you avoid unexpected expenses and claim denials. The following Florida home maintenance checklist breaks down what Florida homeowners need to keep an eye on throughout the year to keep their homes in great shape.

Edison Insurance Company home insurance policies offer coverage for specific covered perils, including lightning, fire, wind, hail, theft, and vandalism. If one of these events causes damage, your policy may cover the cost of repairs or replacement. But if damage results from neglect, old age, or wear and tear, it likely won’t be covered.

Your Florida Home Maintenance Checklist

We’ve compiled a helpful list of maintenance items to regularly inspect, replace, or service throughout the year. Think of this Florida home maintenance checklist as your seasonal game plan for avoiding preventable damage. Staying ahead of these tasks can help you avoid bigger problems down the road.

Inside the Home

Your home's interior systems work hard year-round – especially in Florida’s heat and humidity – so this Florida home maintenance checklist includes tips to keep them running smoothly.

Appliances

Staying on top of your appliances’ condition helps reduce the risk of fire, flooding, or costly damage your homeowners insurance may not cover.

• Washer & Dryer: Check all water hoses for leaks or wear. Clean lint traps regularly to help prevent fires.

• Water Heater: One of the top causes of water damage in homes. Traditional tank water heaters typically last 10-15 years; tankless models can last more than 20 years. Check yours monthly for signs of leaking or corrosion.

• Air Conditioning: Florida heat means your AC works hard. Have it serviced at least once a year. A well-maintained unit can last up to 15 years.

Plumbing

Catching leaks early can save you thousands and help avoid claims being denied due to gradual or preventable damage.

• Water Lines: Inspect water lines under sinks and behind toilets. Keep these areas clear so you can spot leaks early.

• Water Sensors: Consider installing water leak detectors with the ability to shut off water automatically in the event of a leak.

Outside the Home

Florida weather can be harsh on your home’s exterior, which is why this Florida home maintenance checklist also includes roof and yard tips to help you prepare.

Roof

A well-maintained roof is one of your home’s best defenses against water damage, so catching issues early can make a major difference during storm season.

• Shingle Roofs: Asphalt shingles are common in Florida, and can last 20 years – although many insurers consider roofs in need of replacement at 15 years. Look for curling, cracking, or missing shingles. Clean gutters regularly to prevent water damage.

• Tile Roofs: These are more durable than shingles (lasting about 50 years, but often half this length in Florida). Even so, tiles can crack. Check for damage and replace broken tiles.

• Flat Roofs: These roofs require frequent maintenance. After storms, check for standing water, which can add stress on the home and lead to leaks.

• Attic: Look for stains, streaks, or light beams in the attic, indicating possible roof damage.

Yard & Exterior

Keeping the area around your home clear and well-maintained not only looks better – it also helps protect your home from damage during storms.

• Tree Trimming: Keep limbs away from the house to prevent damage in high winds.

• Clear Debris: Remove any clutter or waste materials from around your home. It could damage your foundation or become dangerous projectiles during a storm.

Insurance Is for the Unexpected – Not Routine Wear and Tear

Fixing a leaking water heater or replacing an aging roof can be expensive, but if the damage comes from regular wear and tear, your insurance likely won’t cover it. However, if a covered peril like lightning strikes your home and causes an electrical surge causing damage to your appliances, it may be covered under your Edison policy. Even so, check your policy because each one is different.

Home maintenance and home insurance work hand in hand. By keeping your home in good condition, you not only avoid costly repairs but also help ensure your home insurance can step in when it truly matters.

When used together with homeowners insurance, a Florida home maintenance checklist can help you prevent small issues from becoming major – and possibly uncovered – problems.

Edison Insurance Is Here to Help You Protect Your Florida Home

Call your agent with any questions about your policy or home insurance needs.

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