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The Hanover Study Finds Homeowners Need Guidance and Support To Properly Maintain Their Homes

Core Insights - The 2024 Home Maintenance Report by The Hanover Insurance Group reveals that many homeowners lack knowledge on proper home maintenance, which can lead to significant and costly damage [1][8] - The report emphasizes the importance of risk mitigation strategies and highlights opportunities for independent agents to provide value through discussions with homeowners [2][9] Homeowner Maintenance Behavior - Only 38% of homeowners have checked their roofs, 39% have examined their water heaters, and 40% have cleaned their gutters in the past year, indicating a lack of focus on vulnerable areas [3] - New homeowners, particularly those in their homes for less than five years, are less likely to know the location of their water shut-off valve compared to long-term homeowners [3] - Approximately one-third of homes are due for significant updates, such as roof and window replacements, to protect against environmental factors [3] Regional Maintenance Variations - Maintenance practices vary by region, with Midwest homeowners more likely to have cleaned gutters compared to those in the South and West [3] - Southern and Midwestern homeowners are more proactive in checking HVAC systems (64% each) compared to Northeastern homeowners (48%) [3] - Northeastern homeowners are the most diligent in changing smoke detector batteries (71%) and checking water heaters compared to other regions [3] Industry Context - The Hanover Insurance Group emphasizes the role of homeowners in protecting their investments amid increasing weather severity and evolving risks [9] - The company advocates for collaboration between homeowners and knowledgeable independent insurance agents to ensure proper maintenance and insurance protection [9][10]