As the weather gets colder, it’s important to remove leaves from the garden. An expert has explained why you don’t want them piling up outside your home any time soon
Leaves can cause many problems (stock image)(Image: Elizabethsalleebauer via Getty Images)
Nobody wants to face an unexpected bill before Christmas, and carrying out one straightforward property inspection could help you dodge costly repairs. If you haven’t examined the exterior of your home recently, now might be the time to take a look, as issues could be developing without your knowledge.
Whilst autumn delivers picturesque walks and cosy fireplaces, the pretty falling leaves can quickly transform into a serious headache. Indeed, industry specialists are cautioning householders that blocked drains and guttering systems can lead to water spillage and, in certain instances, result in flooding or moisture-related damage, potentially triggering months of upheaval, restoration work and substantial expenses.
To prevent this issue, you simply need to clear them regularly. And, should anything become obstructed, there’s a handy technique you can employ to attempt clearing critical areas as well.
Insurance specialist Matt Durrant, Managing Director at i4me, explains it’s less about whether insurers will cover the cost, but rather homeowners should aim to prevent the chaos entirely. He said: “If your property suffers water damage because of blocked drains or gutters, it would generally be covered under your home insurance.
“There’s no rule that says you have to keep your gutters spotless, but staying on top of it is the easiest way to stop problems before they start and avoid a potential claim.”
It’s important to take action (stock image)(Image: Getty Images)
While some may believe that an insurance claim will be automatically dismissed if a gutter is blocked, this isn’t always the case. Matt explains that it’s rare for maintenance conditions to be included in policies and proving whether cleaning was carried out can be tricky.
Matt elaborated: “It’s very rare to see a policy that insists on regular gutter or drain cleaning. The real issue isn’t insurers refusing claims – it’s the disruption floods cause.
“Imagine having to move out while repairs are done – juggling school runs, pets and commuting. That’s the real headache.”
A bit of preventative maintenance now could save you time and money down the line. Here’s how to safeguard your home from any unexpected incidents:
Clean gutters and drains before and after heavy rainfall to stop water poolingSweep away fallen leaves and debris from patios, driveways and around drain coversTrim overhanging trees so branches and leaves don’t block guttersLook for early warning signs such as damp patches, dripping overflows and water stainingTake photos and keep receipts if you do get help – this can act as proof in a claim
When bad weather strikes, it’s not just your house that’s at risk. Items like BBQs, patio furniture and toys might not be fully covered by your insurance if they get damaged.
Most insurance policies cap “contents in the open” at around £1,000, which could leave you out of pocket. Matt added: “It’s also worth checking your cover. If you’ve spent a lot on outdoor kit, you can usually raise the limit before the worst weather hits.”
While keeping gutters clear might seem like a tedious task, it’s one of the simplest ways you can protect your home and avoid the havoc that a flood can wreak. A quick half-hour tidy up this autumn could spare you months of stress and thousands in damage.
It’s definitely something worth knowing as we head into the winter months. And, if you’re struggling to clean certain areas, don’t hesitate to call in the professionals for advice.
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