BCAA encourages homeowners to perform spring maintenance to safeguard against
costly repairs

BURNABY, B.C., March 24 /CNW/ - While many areas of B.C. experienced mild weather conditions this winter, it's still important to conduct basic spring maintenance to prevent small problems from becoming big home emergencies. BCAA Insurance sees the results of homeowner neglect, and encourages B.C. residents to take preventative measures to save themselves from the inconvenience - and costs - of major repairs.

    
    BCAA's spring maintenance checklist includes:

    -  Clean any debris from eavestroughs and downspouts, reattach any
       sections that are loose, replace any sections that are damaged, and
       make sure that the flow of water discharges away from your
       foundations.

    -  Complete a visual inspection of your roof. If you see any debris,
       damaged or missing shingles, consult a qualified tradesperson to
       remove and repair.

    -  Caulk and reseal windows and doors. Also, check flashing around
       chimneys, skylights and roof valleys.

    -  Check your furnace, air-exchanger, kitchen exhaust hoods and air-
       conditioner filters, and clean or replace them, if needed.

    -  Check your hot water tank for leaks and to see if your pressure relief
       valve is working properly.

    -  Replace batteries and check all smoke detectors, CO(2) monitors and
       fire extinguishers. Review your fire escape plan with your family.

    -  Check for pest infestations such as mice, termites and carpenter ants.

    -  Examine the foundation walls for cracks, leaks or signs of moisture.

    -  Examine exterior steps, decks, porches and balconies for weak or
       broken railings and posts. Inspect deck surfaces and walkways for
       slippery moss and mildew.

    -  Trim or remove nearby trees that may pose a danger to your home.

    -  Protect all your electrical appliances from power surges and
       lightning. Replace all extension cords that have become brittle, worn
       or damaged.

    -  As part of your spring maintenance, review your home insurance policy
       to ensure that your coverage for home and personal belongings still
       meets your needs. Talk to your insurance agent about any changes you
       need to make.
    

For more information on home care and maintenance, go to www.bcaa.com/home.

BCAA is the largest organization of its kind in B.C., with over 100 years experience and gross annual sales of nearly $400 million from its membership, insurance and travel businesses. A BCAA Membership can be found in the wallets of over 780,000 British Columbians and in one-in-four B.C. households. For the past two years, BCAA has received the highest score in Canada for home insurance customer satisfaction in a J.D. Power and Associates study. And, for the past four years, BCAA has been named one the 50 Best Employers in Canada by international HR consultants Hewitt Associates and the Globe & Mail's Report on Business magazine. To learn more about BCAA's products, services and member advocacy, visit www.bcaa.com. For more information on the BCAA Traffic Safety Foundation visit www.tsf-bcaa.com.

For further information: or to request an interview, please contact: Niela Melanio, BCAA Public Affairs Advisor, Tel: [phone], Cell: [phone]