Spring Cleaning Checklist: Items Often Overlooked in Your Home Insurance

At Merit Insurance, we know spring cleaning is more than just dusting and decluttering—it’s about ensuring your home and everything in it is protected. While you’re freshening up your space, it’s a great time to take a closer look at your home insurance policy. Some things often go unnoticed, and that could leave you without the coverage you need. Here’s a checklist to help you review what might be missing.

1. High-Value Items and Collections

If you own expensive jewelry, art, or collectibles, your standard home insurance might not cover their full value. If you’ve added to your collection or their value has increased, consider updating your policy to ensure they’re protected.

2. Home Renovations and Upgrades

Have you updated your kitchen, finished your basement, or added a new deck? Home improvements can raise your property’s value; you could be underinsured if your policy doesn’t reflect those changes.

3. Home-Based Businesses

Running a business from home? Your standard policy may not cover business-related losses. You might need extra coverage if you store inventory, have expensive equipment, or meet clients at home.

4. Outdoor Structures and Equipment

Sheds, detached garages, pools, and fences are often overlooked. Ensure they’re covered for fire, theft, and weather damage.

5. Personal Liability Coverage

With warmer weather comes more time spent outside. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or the kids are playing on a trampoline, accidents happen. Reviewing your liability coverage can help protect you if someone gets hurt on your property.

6. Emergency Preparedness

Spring is a good time to check your smoke detectors, carbon monoxide alarms, and fire extinguishers. Proper safety measures keep your home and family safer and can sometimes qualify you for insurance discounts.

7. Flood and Sewer Backup Coverage

With heavy rain and melting snow, spring can increase the risk of water damage. Standard policies don’t always include coverage for flooding or sewer backup, so check if you need to add extra protection.

8. Seasonal and Recreational Equipment

Bicycles, kayaks, and lawn equipment—if you’re pulling these out of storage, now’s the time to check whether they’re covered, especially if they’re kept in a shed or garage. Theft or damage to these items may not be included in a basic policy.

Final Thoughts

Spring cleaning isn’t just about tidying up—it’s about ensuring you’re covered for the unexpected. Taking a little time now to review your home insurance can help you avoid costly surprises later. Not sure where to start? Give Merit Insurance a call. We’re here to help you ensure your home and everything in it is adequately covered.