Courtesy photo by AAA A person is seen standing on a ladder leaning on the roof of a house and scooping out the roof gutters.

MICHIGAN — AAA urged homeowners and drivers to treat spring cleaning as more than seasonal upkeep in a press release on Thursday.

Maintenance and safety steps can help prevent property damage, reducing the likelihood of having to file an insurance claim, according to AAA.

“Spring cleaning prevents more than messes. It prevents damage to homes and property,” Jeff Jones, AVP of claims for AAA The Auto Club Group, said in the release. “Every spring, we see preventable losses tied to clogged gutters, leaking appliance hoses, dryer fires caused by lint buildup, and vehicle issues that surface after winter driving.”

Beyond property damage, AAA warned that spring maintenance projects also contribute to a seasonal rise in injuries.

“We also see people get hurt while trying to tackle spring chores,” Jones said. “Falls from ladders, cuts, and strains generate medical claims every year. Take your time, use the right equipment, and know when to call a professional instead of pushing through a risky task.”

“A little preventive maintenance goes a long way,” Jones added. “Taking photos, saving receipts, and keeping a simple checklist can also help support warranty claims and future service decisions if something goes wrong.”

Home maintenance dos and don’ts people often overlook

AAA recommended the following tips for spring cleaning to prevent future insurance claims:

Clean gutters and check drainage

AAA recommended clearing leaves and debris from gutters and downspouts, and to confirm water flows away from the foundation. Clogged gutters force water into roof trim, siding, and interior walls.

Inspect appliance hoses and connections

Check under sinks and behind washers, refrigerators, and dishwashers for slow leaks or brittle hoses. Replace worn lines before they fail.

Vacuum refrigerator coils

Dusty coils force the compressor to work harder, shorten appliance life, and drive up energy costs, according to AAA.

Clean the dryer vent and exterior exhaust

Lint buildup inside dryer vents creates a fire risk. Clean the interior duct and the exterior vent cover.

Check caulk and weatherstripping

Replace cracked or missing material around doors and windows to stop moisture intrusion and reduce cooling costs, the release stated.

Test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors

Replace batteries, test each unit, and remove dust that can interfere with sensor function.

Check your air conditioner

AAA recommended changing the filter, clearing debris around the outdoor unit, and making sure the condensate drain flows freely to prevent water backups.

Don’t rush ladder work

Use stable ladders on level ground, keep three points of contact, and avoid overreaching. Falls from ladders remain one of the most common springtime injury claims, according to AAA.

Vehicle maintenance that improves reliability

AAA recommended the following for vehicle maintenance:

Check tire inflation and tread

Underinflated tires wear faster and run hotter, according to the release. Set tire pressure based on the driver door placard and inspect for damage, nails, or cracking.

Replace wiper blades and top off washer fluid

Spring pollen, rain, and bugs reduce visibility. Fresh wipers and clean fluid restore clear sightlines.

Clear debris from the cowl and windshield base

AAA stated that leaves block drainage channels and can allow water to leak into the vehicle cabin or HVAC system.

Test the battery

Batteries older than three years face higher failure risk, especially after winter stress, according to the release.

Clean headlights and safety sensors

Dirt and pollen reduce visibility and interfere with advanced driver assistance systems. AAA suggested using a soft cloth to clean lenses and cameras.