Time and Cost causing Aussie homeowners to avoid home maintenance checks

• New research reveals 4 in 5 (84 per cent) Australian homeowners are not performing home maintenance frequently enough^1.
• In the past two years, the insurance industry reported claims for burst pipes amounting to around $864 million for the same period².
• Research shows that only a quarter of Aussie homeowners (26 per cent) check their homes for issues or damage annually.
• Allianz has partnered with Scotty Cam for a 7-part series, alongside Michael ‘Wippa’ Wipfli and Tanya Hennessy to provide tips on preventative maintenance around the home.

Home maintenance checks have fallen off the agenda for homeowners, with 1 in 10 surveyed homeowners (13 per cent) admitting they either never check their homes or only do so when an issue arises. Additionally, only 1 in 5 (16 per cent) conduct quarterly checks, falling short of Allianz’s recommendation for routine monthly inspections.

New research commissioned by Allianz has uncovered several reasons why surveyed Aussie homeowners shy away from conducting regular home maintenance checks with 36 per cent acknowledging its due to a lack of knowledge or skills, 32 per cent deterred by the cost of carrying out the work, and 23 per cent believing the checks are unnecessary. Despite this, 3 in 5 (63 per cent) overconfident homeowners are tackling home maintenance tasks without any professional assistance.

Australian homeowners are increasingly time-poor (18 per cent), balancing work, family and other commitments which often leaves little time for home maintenance checks to be carried out. As a result, regular checks for issues such as plumbing, checking flexi-hoses, leaks, and wear and tear are frequently neglected.

To tackle home maintenance and educate customers on how to identify and fix simple home maintenance issues, Allianz has teamed up with Scotty Cam for a 7-part educational series, where he visits the homes of Australian radio personality Michael ‘Wippa’ Wipfli and Australian comedian Tanya Hennessy to share valuable tips on preventative home maintenance and create safer homes for them and their families.

Launching today and available via Allianz's website, each episode features Scotty Cam visiting the homes of Tanya Hennessy and Michael ‘Wippa’ Wipfli to conduct simple checks on items like a flexi hoses, gutters, and bathrooms to identify potential maintenance issues and offer tips on preventing future problems.

Commenting on the series, Scotty Cam said, “If I weren’t in this industry, I probably wouldn’t realise how much damage a rusty flexi hose or clogged gutter can cause. But since I do, I know that ignoring these small maintenance tasks can lead to big issues for your home and your wallet. With Allianz’s Blue Eagle initiative, we’re spreading awareness and sharing easy, actionable tips to encourage everyone to take a few minutes to do these small checks and prevent future problems.”

Shez Ford, Chief General Manager, Consumer at Allianz Australia, emphasised the importance of incorporating small, frequent checks into your routine, to prevent future stress.

“At Allianz, we understand that homeowners have a lot on their plates, but quick, frequent checks could prevent future complications. And who better to remind us of these small routine checks than our trusted host and handyman, Scotty Cam,” said Shez.

The future of home insurance in Australia will increasingly depend on proactive maintenance and early intervention. Through our Allianz Blue Eagle initiative and our commitment to providing care and support, we aim to empower homeowners with the knowledge and tools they need to take preventative steps in maintaining their homes” concluded Shez.

To watch the 7-part series that will be released fortnightly, and find out more information about the Blue Eagle initiative, visit the Allianz website.

1. Regularly check flexi hoses for cracks, rust, or leaks
2. Replace using a licensed plumber

Roof maintenance: Ensure your roof stays in great shape with regular upkeep

1. Clear debris and trim overhanging branches often
2. Install a gutter guard
3. Enlist a professional to check roof condition annually
4. Trim tree branches near roof or gutter

Home safety: Boost your home’s security with these simple enhancements

1. Use smart home security
2. Upgrade to deadbolts and window locks
3. Automate or turn lights on when you’re away
4. Secure cabinets and bookshelves to walls using brackets or anti-tip devices 

Bathroom maintenance: Maintain a clean and leak-free bathroom with these easy steps

1. Check bathroom for any signs of leaks
2. Reseal grout as needed
3. Clean drains regularly
4. Keep bathrooms ventilated to keep control of mould

Drainage: Prevent drainage issues by keeping your gutters and drains clear

1. Clear drains and gutters regularly