January Home Maintenance Tasks

/

Each month in 2014, we’ll be sharing a short list of tasks that you can do to help take care of your home, vehicle, and family.  Consider them a helpful reminder of what needs to get accomplished throughout the month to keep your important items protected.

Here’s what’s on the list for January:

Make A Home Inventory 

January is all about getting organized, right? So what better time to document what you own in case you were to suffer a serious insurance loss (like a fire). Grab your cell phone and make a short video of each room in your home, focusing on big ticket items. Many times, it’s difficult for our clients to remember every little possession after the shock of a large claim. You’ll be glad you took the time to make the videos if you ever need them.

Deep Clean Your Dryer Vent

A large percentage of home fires begin in the clothes dryer!  Lint builds up in the vent and hose which can spark a fire.  Unhook the hose and vacuum the area well on a regular basis to keep your home protected.

Organize Your Warranties

Do you have a big pile of warranties, product documents, and receipts stuffed in your desk drawer?  Do you even own those items anymore?  These days, many owners manuals can be found online without taking up valuable drawer storage.  Also consider scanning and keeping a digital file of your receipts and warranties for easy storage and retrieval if needed.  

Check Your Circuit Breakers

How often do you actually look in the breaker box?  Open it up and make sure the labels are correct and readable.  Also stash a spare flashlight (with working batteries) close by in case of a power outage.

Gather Your Tax Documents 

It won’t be long until you’re filing your 2013 taxes.  Start gathering up all the documents you or your accountant will need.  Need a copy of your insurance policies or premiums?  Call us at 360-452-9200 and we’ll be happy to help!  

Know Your Deductibles

When was the last time you reviewed your deductibles?  This is what you would pay out of pocket in the event of an insurance claim.  It’s a good idea to keep this amount in your savings account so it’s available when you need it.  Feel free to give us a call to review all of your insurance policies in detail.  

January is a great time to get organized for the new year!  Let the Matt Elwood Agency know if we can help in any way!  

Happy New Year!  

/ / Comment

Matt Elwood

Matt Elwood grew up in Port Angeles, graduating from the high school before moving south to attend Pepperdine University in Malibu, CA. While earning his B.S.in Business Administration he secured an internship at Northwestern Mutual and started his financial career. After graduating from Pepperdine, Matt built a successful Insurance practice in Los Angeles while earning his investment licenses. After a decade of being away from family, Matt decided to move back to Port Angeles and purchase his mother’s Agency. The Helen Elwood Insurance Agency has been an established Allstate agency in Port Angeles for many years. Matt purchased the business in January 2011 and renamed it Elwood Benefits. Matt is focused on growing the business which leaves him little time for anything else. When he does take a break you’ll find him enjoying his family or out on the golf course.

Google+