Good Maintenance is the Best Insurance

Maintaining your property isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s a crucial step in ensuring that your insurance coverage remains valid. Neglecting regular upkeep can lead to denied claims, leaving you with unexpected expenses. Let’s delve into why good maintenance is your best insurance policy.

Did you know that your insurance policy does not protect your property against any and every eventuality? You are under an obligation to practice proper maintenance on your insured properties to avoid preventable damage. We’re here to give you more information on what you can do to make sure that you’re in the clear if disaster strikes.

Insurance is a game of statistics. Insurers are able to estimate how often a loss might occur and how severe that loss might be. As insurers only honour claims for loss events brought about through accidental means, it is important to discuss this due to chance concept with your insurer when considering insurance policies for your buildings and property.

This also means that, when it comes to building insurance, you have a responsibility to maintain your properties and keep them in good repair. Any claims for damage that could have been prevented through proper maintenance will not be covered by an insurance policy.

Not The Best Insurance: Common Maintenance Issues Leading to Claim Denials

Roof Neglect:

Leaky Roofs: Failing to repair minor leaks can lead to significant water damage.

Damaged Flashing: Brittle or porous flashing can cause gradual water intrusion.

Worn Malthoid Underlay: Deteriorated underlay allows water penetration, especially in slate roofs.

Loose Fasteners: Screws and fasteners on iron roofs can loosen over time, leading to structural issues.

Gutter and Downspout Issues:

Blocked Gutters: Accumulated debris can cause water overflow, damaging the property’s foundation.

Improper Drainage: Poorly directed downspouts can lead to water pooling and structural damage.

The most common factors in cases like these are blocked gutters, brittle flashing, worn malthoid underlay and thinning thatch. Here are some top tips to ensure that you keep on top of your maintenance – and your responsibilities to your policies:

• The bandage or membrane applied to the join between a roof and the external walls of a building is called flashing. Flashing is prone to becoming brittle and porous as it is often exposed to the elements. This can cause gradual water damage or rising damp. Flashing should be repainted or reapplied on an annual basis.
• The malthoid underlay found on many slate roofs can allow water penetration if it is not replaced when necessary. These should be inspected yearly to check if they still provide sufficient protection.
• The screws and fasteners on IBR- and other iron roofs loosen over time. These should also be checked annually and repaired and sealed as necessary.

Top Maintenance Tips to Give You the Best Insurance and to Protect Your Property

Annual Roof Inspections:

Schedule professional inspections to identify and address potential issues early.

• Regular Gutter Cleaning: Clear gutters and downspouts of debris to ensure proper water flow and prevent damage.
• Inspect and Maintain Flashing: Repaint or reapply flashing annually to maintain its integrity.
• Monitor Malthoid Underlay: Check for signs of wear and replace as needed to prevent leaks.
• Secure Roof Fasteners: Tighten and seal screws and fasteners on iron roofs to maintain structural stability.

Remember that not every risk can be insured. Contact us for assistance in reviewing your budgets and to ensure that you have sufficient reserve funds available to cover unforeseen costs, uninsured risks, future maintenance and repairs to your buildings.

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