If you own an older home in Florida, regular maintenance is a must. Everything deteriorates over time with age and use — just consider all that we do to combat the signs of aging in our bodies!
If you are seeking homeowners insurance for older homes in Florida, you know that available coverage options often take into consideration how well maintained the home is.
Here are some tips for regular maintenance and upkeep to keep your older Florida home in great shape for even more years to come.
Don’t Wait for Trouble
You don’t want to discover that there are limitations to your homeowners insurance coverage if a leak develops in your roof. If the roof is older and poorly maintained, you should consider hiring a professional to repair or replace it. This also holds true for your HVAC, plumbing, and other systems in your home that require routine maintenance and/or to be replaced after they’ve exceeded their useful lifespan.
Keeping a close eye on your home can help you discover small problems before they become big ones. A qualified service specialist can also let you know when it’s time to replace systems or appliances. By not waiting for major trouble to develop, you will save money over time on large repairs — and have much less to worry about should disaster strike.
Schedule Regular Maintenance and Inspections
While you’re thinking about it, go ahead and schedule preventive maintenance checks. Professional technicians have a recommended schedule for assessing major functions of your home. Here are some common routine maintenance checks you should make note of:
- HVAC inspections at least once a year
- Yearly termite inspections
- Yearly roof and chimney inspections
- Yearly dryer vent cleaning
- Septic tank inspections and cleanings every three years, or more, depending on the size of your household
Use Trained Professionals to Service Your Older Florida Home
Your brother-in-law might be handy around the house, but some repairs to your older Florida home may require professional expertise. Using trained and licensed professionals when you need roof repair, HVAC service, appliance repair, septic tank inspection and pumping, or other services is always wise. They have the tools, training, and experience to do the job right without causing other problems. This can also reflect favorably on your record of care when you file a homeowners insurance claim.
Keep Good Records
This goes hand in hand with the above recommendation. Service professionals can give you printed documents as proof of the maintenance performed for your permanent records, and this can be vital to demonstrate how well you have cared for your older Florida home. It is always important to show that your property has been actively maintained in the event you need to file a claim with your homeowners insurance. Without evidence of such care, your claim could be denied.
Get Homeowners Insurance for Older Homes in Florida
Homeowners insurance for older homes in Florida is not easy to find in today’s market. Many insurance companies are limiting their capacity for these policies until market conditions improve. Those that do offer such coverage may have stringent guidelines for homeowners to follow or significant restrictions in the type and scope of coverage.
American Integrity is able to offer homeowners insurance for older homes in Florida when many other companies cannot. Our Integrity Select product is designed to provide protection for older homes in Florida with robust coverage up to $1.5 million and few restrictions. We can also offer specialized options, a variety of discounts, and multi-line discounts with our Watercraft and Golf Cart insurance.
If you’ve been turned down with other companies, contact an American Integrity Agent today to discuss homeowners insurance for older homes in Florida.