A well-maintained home is cheaper and safer to insure. Following an annual home maintenance checklist reduces preventable damage and prevents insurers from reducing or denying payouts.
Your yearly routine can be the best defence against costly, avoidable problems.
Your Yearly Home Protection Checklist
1. Roof and Gutters – Clean every three months; replace cracked tiles.
2. Trees and Outdoor Areas – Trim overhanging branches, clear debris.
3. Electrical & Smoke Systems – Test alarms; check surge protectors.
4. Plumbing & Drainage – Inspect for leaks and blockages before wet season.
5. Security Measures – Test locks, alarms, and exterior lighting.
6. Documents & Valuables – Back up photos, receipts, and certificates digitally.
Understanding and following an annual home maintenance checklist helps protect both your property and your insurance position.
How Small Issues Turn Into Big Claims
Minor problems often cause the most expensive claims. A loose roof tile can let in rain during a storm; a blocked gutter can overflow into walls; an untrimmed branch can shatter windows in high winds.
Most of these are considered “maintenance failures”, meaning insurers may refuse the claim entirely. Fixing issues early prevents both damage and disputes.
Using myVal to Stay on Track
The myVal Maintenance feature lets you:
- Schedule recurring tasks with reminders.
- Upload photos after each check as proof of upkeep.
- Receive season-specific prompts based on NSW weather alerts.
Insurance doesn’t start with a claim — it starts with prevention.
References
Insurance Council of Australia. (2025). Home maintenance and insurance claim denial report.
NSW State Emergency Service. (2025). Prepare Your Property Guide.
Choice Australia. (2024). How maintenance affects your insurance coverage.
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