| Flexi-hoses One of the most frequent reasons for water damage in homes is due to burst flexi hoses, accounting for more than 20% of claims each year. You will find these hoses connected to taps, toilets, washing machines and dishwashers. Check the hose quality every few months. Security alarms Have your burglar alarm serviced annually to ensure that it remains operational and all sensors are functioning. Consider back-to-base monitoring if you don’t have this. Fire safety Install smoke & carbon monoxide detectors and change batteries annually. Purchase a domestic fire extinguisher and a fire blanket and store these in the kitchen or laundry. |
Flexi-hoses One of the most frequent reasons for water damage in homes is due to burst flexi hoses, accounting for more than 20% of claims each year. You will find these hoses connected to taps, toilets, washing machines and dishwashers. Check the hose quality every few months. Security alarms Have your burglar alarm serviced annually to ensure that it remains operational and all sensors are functioning. Consider back-to-base monitoring if you don’t have this. Fire safety Install smoke & carbon monoxide detectors and change batteries annually. Purchase a domestic fire extinguisher and a fire blanket and store these in the kitchen or laundry. |
Fireplaces Have the chimney or flue cleaned annually as a build-up of creosote can cause a chimney fire. Only burn seasoned hardwood to prevent excessive creosote and always use a spark screen to catch flying embers. Sump pump If you have a basement or cellar, a sump pump is the best defence against flooding. Regularly inspect and test the sump pump and engage a qualified plumber to service the pump annually. A battery back-up is recommended to ensure proper operation during power outages. Gas heaters Have your gas heater serviced and tested by a qualified gasfitter at least once every two years. All gas heaters can spill carbon monoxide (CO) – a gas you can’t see or smell that can make you seriously sick or kill you. Check for safety advice – some heaters need fresh air flow to operate safely. |
| Household filters Many household appliances use filters to remove impurities and these filters enable the appliances to function efficiently. Filters require a simple yet regular cleaning which can often be overlooked. Household appliances that require filter cleaning include kitchen rangehoods, clothes dryers, ducted vacuum systems, ducted heating systems and split system air-conditioners. Doors & windows Eliminating drafts to doors and windows through proper caulking and weather stripping will increase your homes energy efficiency. |
