According to Rimmer, maintaining outdoor spaces is crucial to preventing damage. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cWith gardens being impacted by drought in some regions, it’s crucial to maintain your sprinkler system to avoid costly damage. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cRegularly check for leaks or malfunctions and to ensure that your outdoor furniture and structures are properly maintained.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cEncourage water awareness by informing your neighbour about any issues with their taps or water tanks near your property.\u201d <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Rimmer also encouraged homeowners to maintain good relationships with neighbours, as issues like water leaks from a neighbour\u2019s property can affect insurance claims.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cAdditionally, keep an eye out for fire hazards such as dead shrubs or trees that need to be trimmed back, especially during warmer weather.\u201d <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cThe summer months, which are just around the corner, can be a time when strong winds arise in some parts of the country, so it\u2019s important to get ahead of any potential hazards.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Rimmer also explained the importance of year-round roof maintenance to protect homes from weather damage. <\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cWhile the roof often goes unnoticed during general home maintenance, it plays a critical role in shielding your home from the elements.\u201d <\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cPrioritise having a specialist assess the age and condition of your roof to identify any areas of concern.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Regular inspections by a specialist can help identify issues such as cracked tiles, loose sheeting, or deteriorating timber, which can compromise the roof’s integrity. <\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cKeep your gutters clear to avoid blockages and ensure that all components are securely fastened to prevent damage during spring or summer storms.\u201d <\/p>\n\n\n\n Looking for leaks inside your house is also important, she explained.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cWater leaks in your home can lead to significant damage if left unchecked, making it essential to address these promptly.\u201d <\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cBy scheduling a thorough inspection with a trusted plumber, you can identify and resolve any hidden leaks in your bathroom or kitchen.\u201d <\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cLook out for warning signs such as mould, condensation, or damaged flooring, and seek professional assistance if needed.\u201d <\/p>\n\n\n\n Simple tasks like repairing tiles, clearing drains, and resealing vulnerable areas can go a long way in preventing leaks and keeping the home in good condition.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cIt’s also significantly easier to repair these kinds of issues when it\u2019s warmer so that repairs will dry faster. This also means you won\u2019t get caught out next year when the cold weather returns.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n She also recommends updating insurance policies to ensure that the replacement value of the property, including any special features like high-end tiling, is accurately covered. <\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cAs the end of the year draws closer, remember to note recurring maintenance tasks on your calendar to ensure they are not overlooked.\u201d <\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/businesstech.co.za\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Following-a-fire-incident-a-house-was-burned-with-its-roof-damaged-in-the-aftermath-1024x576.jpg\")
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