Skipping Late-Winter Home Maintenance Can Cost Homeowners Thousands, Mercury Insurance Warns

Core Insights - Mercury Insurance emphasizes the importance of late winter home maintenance to prevent costly repairs in spring, highlighting that average delayed home repairs now exceed $5,600 [1] - The company notes that nearly 75% of homeowners delay at least one repair, often underestimating the escalation of minor issues [1] - Deferred maintenance can increase overall costs by approximately 7% per year, with delayed maintenance potentially costing homeowners three to five times more than preventive care [1] Maintenance Recommendations - Late winter is identified as an optimal time for homeowners to address maintenance tasks such as sealing gaps around doors and windows, checking heating systems, inspecting roofs and attics, and clearing gutters [1] - Mercury Insurance provides a targeted home maintenance checklist that includes testing smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, weather-stripping, plumbing inspections, HVAC checks, and roof inspections [1] - Taking proactive maintenance steps can help homeowners avoid higher repair costs during peak storm and renovation seasons when contractor availability and material costs are elevated [1] Company Overview - Mercury Insurance is a multi-line insurance carrier offering personal auto, homeowners, renters, and commercial insurance through independent agents across several states [1] - The company has been operational since 1962, providing competitive rates and excellent customer service, supported by over 4,200 employees and a network of more than 6,340 independent agents [1] - Mercury Insurance has received an "A" rating from A.M. Best and has been recognized as a "Best Auto Insurance Company" by Forbes and Insure.com [1]