Buying a house is both fun and stressful at the same time, and you might not think of everything until after you’ve moved in. Along with taking care of basic maintenance, there are some dangers around the home that you should think about before it’s too late.
Flooding
Homeowner’s insurance can be confusing. You buy it, and you think you’re covered for every emergency possible until a disaster happens and you find out that it’s not covered by your policy. Flood insurance is especially confusing and might not be included in your homeowner’s policy.
One thing you might have liked about your new neighborhood was that peaceful stream at the end of the block. But that’s only until a big storm turns that little stream into a wide and the water floods your basement. Always make sure that your homeowner insurance includes flood insurance.
Trees
Trees are always a big selling point for homes. They provide beauty and shade, which is what you probably thought of when you first walked around the yard. After you move in though, you might notice that your tree limbs hang over your roof. Alternatively, it might hang over your neighbor’s yard or roof. You could be responsible for any tree damage that might occur if a branch from your tree falls on the neighbor’s home.
Tree care services can trim and prune your trees. Tree trimming will shape the tree’s canopy and lessen the chance of a limb breaking. If the tree is really a concern, you can have a tree care services company remove the tree entirely.
Sidewalks
Many homeowners mistakenly believe that the sidewalk in front of their home is the city’s responsibility. However, in many cases, it is actually the homeowner’s responsibility. You are not only responsible for shoveling after a snowstorm but also of making sure there are no cracks that someone can trip over.
Cracks, unexpected rises, and uneven slabs can cause someone to fall and injure themselves. This could result in a lawsuit against you and or possibly a citation from the city.
Radon
Radon is an invisible but deadly gas that can seep into your home through cracks in the foundation. Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer. You can buy or rent radon gas detectors to see the level of radon in your home.
If your home has radon at dangerous levels, there are steps you can take to remove the gas. You can install an exhaust fan in the attic to vent the gas or seal any cracks or previous patches in the basement floor.
Owning a home is quite a bit different than renting. As a homeowner, you will have responsibilities to keep your property safe. Inspect your home regularly, do necessary maintenance, and make sure your insurance covers every likelihood.