Targeted maintenance steps can help homeowners limit unexpected repair expenses
LOS ANGELES, Feb. 17, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — As winter winds down, Mercury Insurance (NYSE/NYSE Texas: MCY) is encouraging homeowners to take advantage of late winter to tackle small maintenance projects that can help prevent thousands of dollars in avoidable repair costs once spring arrives. Addressing minor issues now can reduce the risk of larger, more expensive damage later in the year.
Regular home maintenance isn’t just about upkeep — it’s a critical step in protecting long-term property value and avoiding financial strain. Industry research shows that the average delayed home repair now costs more than $5,600, with many homeowners postponing routine maintenance that could have prevented more serious damage. Nearly three-quarters of homeowners report delaying at least one repair, often underestimating how quickly minor issues can escalate.
Deferred maintenance frequently compounds over time. Studies show that neglected home repairs can increase overall costs by approximately 7% per year, while homeowners who delay maintenance may ultimately pay three to five times more than they would have spent on preventive care. In addition to higher repair bills, ignoring routine upkeep can also lead to water intrusion, structural deterioration and reduced property value.
“Late winter is one of the smartest times for homeowners to focus on prevention,” said Adam Bakonis, Sr. Product Manager, Property, at Mercury Insurance. “Many of the issues we see later in spring — water damage, roof leaks and HVAC failures — often start as small, manageable problems that could have been addressed earlier with routine maintenance.”
With the harshest winter weather typically behind them and before spring storms arrive, homeowners have a valuable opportunity to inspect and reinforce vulnerable areas of their homes.
Why Late Winter Is the Right Time
Late winter offers a strategic maintenance window that allows homeowners to:
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Clear gutters and downspouts of debris that can contribute to water damage and ice dams
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Have roofs and attics inspected for loose shingles or moisture intrusion before spring rain
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Check heating systems one final time before seasonal shutdown
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Seal gaps around doors and windows to improve efficiency and prevent moisture issues
Mercury’s Targeted Home Maintenance Checklist
To help homeowners prioritize, Mercury Insurance recommends focusing on:
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Roof, attic and gutter inspections
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HVAC system checks and tune-ups
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Plumbing inspections for leaks
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Weather-stripping and caulking around doors and windows
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Testing smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
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