HomeBase Living | Simple Projects Before Fall Arrives

1

Update Your Homeowner’s Insurance

Your home and belongings may be worth more today than when you originally purchased your policy. Renovations, additions, new outbuildings, finished spaces, and major purchases can all affect the coverage you need.

• Pull out your current homeowner’s insurance policy.
• Review your dwelling coverage and replacement-cost limits.
• Make a list of improvements you’ve made since the policy was last reviewed.
• Check that garages, shops, sheds, and other structures are accurately represented.
• Contact your insurance agent and ask whether your current coverage reflects today’s estimated rebuilding costs.

A Montana note: Replacement costs have increased in Montana in recent years as the cost of construction materials, skilled labor, transportation, and rebuilding has risen. Your home’s market value and the amount it would cost to rebuild it are also two different numbers. A quick conversation with your insurance professional can help you understand whether your coverage still makes sense.

Time: 30–45 minutes  |  Difficulty: Easy

2

Photograph Your Valuables

If you ever need to make an insurance claim after a fire, theft, water damage, or another unexpected event, having a record of what you own can make the process much easier.

• Walk through your home one room at a time with your phone.
• Take wide photos showing furniture, electronics, appliances, and other belongings.
• Photograph higher-value items individually.
• Capture serial numbers, model numbers, receipts, or appraisals when available.
• Store a copy somewhere other than only on your phone, such as secure cloud storage.

Don’t worry about creating a perfect inventory. A simple photo record today is much better than no record at all.

Time: 30–60 minutes  |  Difficulty: Easy

3

Review Your Home-Maintenance Records

Homes are easier to care for when you know what has been done and when. Good records can help you spot upcoming maintenance needs and can also be helpful when you eventually sell.

• Gather receipts, invoices, warranties, inspection reports, and service records.
• Note the dates of major work such as roofing, HVAC service, water-heater replacement, septic service, or appliance replacement.
• Make a short list of items that may need attention in the coming year.
• Store everything together in a physical binder or digital home folder.

4

Take a Look at Your Attic Insulation

When Montana temperatures drop, inadequate or disturbed insulation can mean heat loss, higher energy use, and uncomfortable rooms. Your attic can also provide clues about moisture or ventilation problems.

• Choose a daylight hour and safely access your attic.
• Use a flashlight to visually inspect the insulation.
• Look for areas where insulation appears compressed, uneven, wet, or missing.
• Check for obvious signs of moisture, staining, frost, or pest activity.
• Avoid disturbing insulation if you don’t know what type it is or suspect there may be a larger issue.

Time: 15–30 minutes  |  Difficulty: Moderate

5

Check Your Weather Stripping

A small gap around a door or window can let a surprising amount of cold Montana air into your home. Weather stripping is inexpensive, and fixing worn areas can improve comfort before winter arrives.

• Inspect exterior doors and accessible windows.
• Look for cracked, flattened, loose, or missing weather stripping.
• On a cool or windy day, feel around the edges for noticeable drafts.
• Replace damaged weather stripping with the appropriate type for the opening.
• Open and close the door or window afterward to make sure it still seals and operates properly.

Time: 15–45 minutes  |  Difficulty: Easy