Standard Work for Older Homes

If you buy your home new, it’s not going to stay new forever. As the years pass, both you and your home will get older. How can you make sure it provides a secure space no matter how long you reside in it? Take some time to find out more about the maintenance and safety precautions for older homes.

Do Your Chores, Keep Your House Secure
In the end, your security will depend on your ability to feel safe in your own home. Your home will need regular maintenance to keep you safe as you age. Furthermore, extra precautions might prove necessary to enhance your security.

Foundation Safety and Fall Risks
Many older Americans worry about fall risks in the home. Look for ways to keep these risks low.

Start out by always keeping your foundations level and pathways clear and undamaged. Know when walkways around the home need repairs. If you begin to need help walking, consider installing special handicap rails along pathways.

Fire Prevention
Fire risks only become more dangerous as you age. Therefore, always make sure your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms work. Keep a working fire extinguisher in the home. Perform regular maintenance on the electrical system, furnace, fireplace or cooking utensils. Don’t leave these items unattended, or use them in unsafe ways. If you notice smoke or strange smells, immediately call for help.

Utility Breakdowns
Appliance problems might leave older people stranded without heat, air, plumbing or water. They could also damage the home. In each of these cases, homeowners could face serious health and safety risks. Therefore, always have regular maintenance on these systems, and get repairs as needed.

Home Security
You might worry about your own safety in your home at any age. A security system, including medical alerts, burglar alarms and other devices can help you feel safer when home alone. Depending on the system you choose, your homeowners insurance might offer discounts.

If home damage occurred because of an unpreventable accident, homeowners insurance might pay to repair the damage. However, if problems arise from normal wear and tear, your policy likely won’t help. So, as soon as home damage occurs, contact your insurance provider. They can help you determine if you can file a claim for property damage, and how much you can receive for the claim.

Don’t let home maintenance go unattended. Even if you can no longer make these repairs yourself, you can hire trusted help to fix these problems. Start now, and let your home insurance agent help you.