Fall Yard Work Hazards & Home Insurance

Leaves aren’t the only thing that can fall in September — protect yourself from slips, trips, and claims!

Fall is here, and with it comes a checklist of yard chores: raking leaves, cleaning gutters, trimming trees, and getting your home ready for winter. While these tasks keep your property looking sharp, they also come with risks. One slip on a ladder or tumble over a rake handle could leave you with more than just sore muscles — it could lead to costly injuries or insurance claims.

Here’s how to stay safe (and insured) while tackling those fall yard projects:

Raking Leaves

• Slips and trips are common when leaves pile up and hide uneven ground.
• Wet leaves can be as slick as ice.
• Overexertion is another risk — take breaks, especially if you’re bagging large piles.
• Insurance angle: If a neighbor or visitor slips on leaves in your yard or walkway, liability coverage on your homeowners policy can help with medical bills and legal costs.

Cleaning Gutters

• Ladders are one of the biggest hazards of fall maintenance.
• Always place your ladder on solid, level ground and avoid overreaching.
• Better yet, use a spotter or hire a professional if your gutters are high.
• Insurance angle: Falls from ladders are a leading cause of ER visits each autumn. Home insurance won’t cover your own medical costs, but it does help if a guest or hired worker is injured on your property.

Trimming Trees

• Dead or overhanging branches are dangerous during fall storms and winter ice.
• Use proper safety gear when trimming or call a professional for large jobs.
• Keep an eye out for power lines — never cut near them.
• Insurance angle: Removing weak limbs now can prevent damage to your home or a neighbor’s property. If a storm knocks down an unmaintained tree and damages someone else’s house, you could be held liable.

Extra Yard Safety Tips

• Store tools, ladders, and extension cords away from walkways when not in use.
• Wear gloves, goggles, and sturdy shoes.
• Keep kids and pets away from work zones.

Wrap-Up

• Yard work is part of the season, but safety should always come first. A few smart precautions — plus the right homeowners coverage — can keep you protected from unexpected slips, trips, and claims. This fall, don’t just clean up your yard… give your insurance a quick tidy-up, too! 🍂🏡