Spring brings warmer weather, blooming flowers, and the perfect excuse to refresh your surroundings—but it also introduces seasonal risks that homeowners and drivers shouldn’t overlook. From unpredictable storms to increased outdoor activity and potential property damage, being proactive in the spring can help you avoid costly surprises.
To help you make the most of the season while staying safe and protected, we’ve created a comprehensive Spring Safety Checklist. Whether you’re hitting the road, tidying up your home, or reviewing your insurance coverage, here’s what you need to know.
🚗 Spring Driving Safety Tips
Winter may get most of the attention for hazardous roads, but spring comes with its own set of challenges. Keep these tips in mind before heading out:
1. Watch for Changing Weather
Spring rain can lead to slick roads and decreased visibility. Slow down during storms, check your tire tread, and make sure your windshield wipers are in good condition.
2. Look Out for Pedestrians and Cyclists
Warmer weather means more foot and bicycle traffic. Stay alert in neighborhoods, near parks, and at intersections. Share the road and double-check your blind spots.
3. Expect More Motorcycles
Motorcyclists return to the road in spring. Use extra caution when turning or merging, and give them plenty of space.
4. Be Prepared for Construction Zones
Road repairs ramp up in spring. Obey all signage in work zones, reduce speed, and avoid distractions. Patience keeps everyone safer.
5. Watch for Wildlife
Animals like deer become more active in spring. Drive cautiously in rural areas and during dawn and dusk hours when wildlife crossings are more common.
6. Prep Your Vehicle
If your car was stored during winter, have it inspected. Check fluid levels, brakes, lights, and tires before your first road trip of the season.
🏡 Spring Home Maintenance & Safety Checklist
Your home may have taken a beating during the colder months. Now is the time to catch up on safety checks, repairs, and seasonal updates.
1. Test Smoke & CO Detectors
Replace batteries and test alarms. If they’re expired or malfunctioning, replace the entire unit.
2. Inspect Fire Extinguishers & Emergency Supplies
Make sure your fire extinguisher is still within its effective date and your flashlights have fresh batteries in case of a power outage.
3. Deep Clean Appliances
Move your washer and dryer to clean behind and inspect for leaks. Clean your dryer vent to prevent fire hazards.
4. Replace Filters & Prep HVAC Systems
Swap out old furnace filters and ensure your air conditioner is in working order before the heat sets in.
5. Check Windows & Doors
Clean and inspect locks, screens, and seals. Secure any that are loose to improve energy efficiency and safety.
6. Fix Decks, Patios & Walkways
Repair loose boards, nails, or uneven surfaces to prevent trips or falls before summer entertaining begins.
7. Ready the Grill & Outdoor Equipment
Clean your grill, inspect gas connections, and test igniters. Also check bikes, playground equipment, and outdoor furniture for wear and tear.
8. Maintain Your Yard
Trim trees and bushes, clean up debris, fill in animal holes, and mow the lawn. This enhances curb appeal and prevents injuries.
9. Clean Gutters & Check the Roof
Clear out gutters and downspouts, and inspect your roof for any missing shingles or leaks before heavy spring rains.
10. Look for Mold Indoors
Damp, humid spring weather can lead to mold growth. Address any signs of moisture early to avoid respiratory issues or property damage.
🛠 Does Your Insurance Broken Household Items?
It’s frustrating when something in your home breaks—whether it’s a water heater that suddenly stops working or a tree branch crashing through your roof. When damage strikes, many homeowners wonder: Will my insurance cover this?
The answer often depends on how the damage occurred. Homeowners insurance is designed to protect you from unexpected events, not routine wear and tear. Understanding the difference can help you avoid surprises when it comes time to file a claim.
Let’s explore what’s typically covered, what’s not, and how your homeowners insurance policy can help you bounce back after a sudden mishap.
✔ Covered vs. Uncovered: The Basics
Homeowners insurance generally protects your home and belongings against sudden and accidental damage from specific events known as “covered perils.” These are incidents that happen without warning and cause physical damage to your property.
Examples of common covered perils include:
- Fire and smoke
- Wind or hailstorms
- Vandalism or theft
- Burst pipes or plumbing failures
- Damage caused by falling objects
- Electrical surges from artificial currents
If the damage to your household item or system is tied to one of these causes, you may be covered—either through dwelling coverage (for structural damage) or personal property coverage (for possessions like furniture, appliances, and electronics).
Dwelling Coverage: Protecting Your Home’s Structure
Dwelling coverage applies to the physical structure of your home—walls, roof, floors, built-in appliances, and major systems. So if a windstorm rips shingles off your roof and rain causes water damage inside your home, your dwelling coverage would typically help pay for repairs.
It’s important to note that coverage applies only when the damage is caused by a covered peril. A roof that leaks due to age or poor maintenance wouldn’t be eligible for reimbursement.
Personal Property Coverage: What’s Inside Counts Too
Broken items like TVs, laptops, or furniture may be covered under your personal property insurance—if they were damaged due to a covered event.
For example:
- A power surge damages your home office setup: Covered
- A pipe bursts and ruins your rug: Covered
- Your dishwasher breaks down due to age: Not covered
If you have especially valuable items like jewelry, fine art, or collectibles, consider adding a scheduled personal property endorsement for extra protection.
✘ When Insurance Won’t Pay
Homeowners insurance is not a maintenance plan. Problems caused by neglect, age, or gradual deterioration—such as a cracked tile, a leaking faucet, or a broken appliance that simply wore out—are generally not covered.
Examples of non-covered issues:
- A washing machine that stops working from old age
- Mold caused by long-term moisture problems
- Damage from pests like termites or rodents
To avoid coverage gaps, stay on top of routine home maintenance and inspections. Insurance is there for unexpected events, not predictable breakdowns.
Spring-Specific Situations to Know
Spring is known for unpredictable weather—windstorms, heavy rain, and even hail. These conditions can lead to:
- Roof damage
- Flood damage from drainage issues
- Fallen tree limbs damaging fences, sheds, or decks
In many cases, your insurance policy may cover these situations if the damage stems from a covered peril. However, flood damage from rising water or groundwater is not typically covered by standard homeowners insurance. If you live in a flood-prone area, a separate flood insurance policy is strongly recommended.
Take Inventory and Stay Prepared
To streamline any future claims, take a home inventory of your belongings. Note serial numbers, values, and purchase dates. Photos or videos can also serve as documentation in the event of a claim.
Also, review your policy annually to ensure your coverage limits reflect your current home value and possessions.
✅ Spring Safety Starts with Preparation
Taking these steps now can help prevent property damage, reduce risks, and give you greater peace of mind as the season unfolds. From weatherproofing your home to avoiding accidents on the road, your spring refresh isn’t complete without safety and insurance in mind.
Need help reviewing your homeowners or auto policy? Contact the experts at Dimmitt Insurance. We’ll help you understand your current coverage and recommend any updates to ensure you’re fully protected.
