Stomp out insects with a simple checklist
The National Pest Management Association advises homeowners that pest-proofing practices should become a part of your annual spring cleaning routine. You can keep common critters at bay by adding a few simple steps to your checklist.
- Examine the exterior: The outside of your residence is a bug’s first entry point inside. Seal cracks and crevices, clean out clogged gutters and examine the roof and chimney to make sure they don’t have any possible holes. Screen in your windows and doors and employ weather-stripping techniques.
- Employ routine landscaping: Spring is a great time to get started on routine yard work, and there’s no time like the present to trim trees and shrubs that are close to the home.
- Clean up the mess: Wipe crumbs from kitchen counters, sinks, shelves and floors and store food in airtight containers. Properly seal trash bags and empty them regularly. And man’s best friend? Avoid leaving your pet’s food and water dishes out for long periods of time, as they serve as an open invitation for insects to feast.
- Dry is your friend: Pests love warm, wet environments and stagnant water is their breeding ground. Check your plumbing regularly for leaks and have pipes fixed. Even your air conditioning unit, laundry machine, bird baths and backyard tire swings can all become potential problem areas.
We take the fear out of insurance
If you are facing a possible infestation, you might think you are helpless—but the good news is that bugs come from very specific sources. By using your eyes and intuition, you can help eradicate a pest problem before it arises—and before you find yourself asking if it’s covered by your homeowners policy (chances are it’s not!)
Bugs can be scary, but with The Dowd Agencies, there’s nothing to fear! Our seasoned insurance specialists can advise you on solutions or add-on coverages designed to meet your unique needs. We invite you to reach out today to learn more about what Dowd can do for you.