Lords Insurance Agency Blog

Proper fireplace upkeep can help limit your chances of a winter house fire, which could mean a very big claim on your home insurance in California. Residents should consider calling in a professional to clean and inspect chimneys at least once a year. Clearing out the creosote buildups between these visits can be a simple job- all you need is a chimney brush, a flexible rod, ladder, a flashlight, and a vacuum or broom.                                                                                                               

• Before getting started, make sure you close the doors of a wood-burning stove. You can tape plastic wrap over an open fireplace.
• With the help of the ladder, climb onto the roof. If you get up on the roof, some kind of safety harness is generally advised. After attaching the brush to the rod, lower it into the chimney.
• Push the brush down as far as you can and then pull it up to the top. Repeat around four times.
• Using a flashlight, check to see if you removed all of the creosote. It will appear as black, oily residue on the walls. Repeat the above step as necessary.
• Once you are finished, go inside and vacuum or sweep up the ash and other debris you loosened.

Even if you take time to maintain your chimney, you still need home insurance in California. Residents have a lot of potential calamities to face such as earthquakes, wildfires, and severe storms. The proper insurance can help reduce the risk of your family being bankrupted by costly repairs so speak to an agent soon about home insurance and earthquake coverage for your home.