Introducing the Murphy Insurance Homeowner’s Manual: Your Guide to Preventing Costly Home Repairs & Damages

May 19, 2025||inPersonal Insurance|home maintenance, home repairs, homeowners insurance, homeowners manual, personal insurance, preventive maintenance
Homeowners Manual Cover Graphic May 2025
Download our Homeowner’s Manual

For many people, buying a home is the single largest investment they’ll ever make. It’s a source of pride, comfort, and financial security. However, it also comes with ongoing responsibilities, and the reality that unexpected damage or repairs can disrupt their life and strain their budget.

That’s why Murphy Insurance Agency is proud to introduce our brand-new Homeowner’s Manual: Your Guide to Preventing Costly Home Repairs & Damages. This comprehensive resource was created to help homeowners like you stay ahead of problems before they turn into expensive insurance claims. It is part of our commitment to not only protect what matters most but also to help you avoid risk in the first place.

The Murphy Insurance Experience

Dennis Murphy of Murphy Insurance“We’ve taken decades of experience helping clients navigate everything from frozen pipes to fire damage and turned that knowledge into a practical, proactive guide,” said Dennis Murphy, Treasurer of Murphy Insurance Agency. “We see the patterns, the most common causes of claims, and the issues that could have been prevented with just a little foresight. This manual is about sharing that knowledge so you can take care of your home with confidence.”

Built around real-world insight, the Homeowner’s Manual offers clear, actionable tips on how to maintain your property and avoid common—and costly—issues. Topics include:

  • Roof & gutter care to prevent leaks and ice dams
  • Plumbing and water damage prevention
  • HVAC system maintenance for comfort and efficiency
  • Electrical and fire safety tips to reduce hazards
  • Foundation and structural upkeep
  • Pest control and outdoor maintenance
  • Swimming pool and hot tub safety
  • Emergency preparedness
  • Plus: A month-by-month home maintenance checklist

Protect Your Home and Your Biggest Investment

From the seasonal tasks that can make or break your winter to simple upgrades that improve safety and energy efficiency, the guide is packed with advice to help homeowners protect their property year-round.

“This manual isn’t just a checklist—it’s a tool built on the thousands of claim situations we’ve seen over the years,” said Wayne Texeira, Marketing Director. “We know what tends to go wrong in homes, what risks are overlooked, and what maintenance steps truly make a difference. Our goal is to help homeowners avoid those headaches before they ever happen.”

What sets this manual apart is its foundation in real claims data and firsthand experience from Murphy Insurance’s team of agents and adjusters. Every recommendation is based on what we know works—from reducing the likelihood of water damage to minimizing the chance of liability issues on your property.

And while proactive maintenance can’t prevent every issue, it can significantly reduce your chances of needing to file a claim—and in some cases, even lower your premiums.

🏠 Ready to take charge of your home’s protection?

Read our Homeowner Blog Posts

Living room

Renting Out Your Home? Here’s What You Need to Know About Liability and Insurance

Renting out your home—whether short-term or long-term—can provide extra income but also introduces legal and insurance risks. Before listing your property, it's essential to research local laws, use a clear rental agreement, screen tenants carefully, and ensure your insurance policy provides the right coverage. Taking steps like securing valuables, documenting your home’s condition, and staying accessible can help protect your property and minimize potential issues.
Read more
Kitchen

Smoke Detector Maintenance: Keep Your Home and Family Safe

Smoke detectors are one of the most vital tools for protecting your home and family, but they only work if they’re properly maintained. In this post, we’ll cover how to choose the right smoke detectors, where to place them, and how to keep them in working condition through regular testing and battery replacement. A few simple steps can make all the difference in a fire emergency.
Read more
Flood Insurance May Be Critical to Safeguard Your MetroWest, Massachusetts Home

Flood Insurance May Be Critical to Safeguard Your MetroWest, Massachusetts Home

Flooding isn’t just a coastal problem—it’s a growing concern across MetroWest, Massachusetts. Whether you live in Framingham, Hudson, or Hopkinton, you may be surprised to learn your home is at risk. Learn how flood insurance can help protect your property from the damage that standard homeowners’ policies don’t cover.
Read more
House Safety Tip 17 1200

Secure Your Windows | House Safety Tips

Ground-level windows, basement windows, and those hidden by landscaping are all more accessible than you might think. Even if they’re closed, many standard window latches aren’t designed for real protection. Without reinforcement, intruders can force them open in seconds. That’s why securing your windows—especially the ones easiest to reach—is a smart and necessary step toward better home safety. Read our House Safety Tips #17 post to learn more.
Read more
Shovel

Digging on Your Property? Here’s Why “Dig Safe” Should Be Your First Step

Under federal and state law, all homeowners and contractors are required to notify the appropriate utility companies before doing any excavation work. Keep reading to learn more about the standards for digging on your property.
Read more
Lightning

Lightning Storm Safety

Lightning storms light up the sky in dramatic fashion, but they’re also dangerous. A lightning strike can cause major injuries like burns, heart issues, or even brain damage. That’s why it’s important to know how to stay safe when one rolls into your area. Follow these helpful tips to help you stay safe.
Read more
Checklist

You only need to update your insurance if you make a major life change | Insurance Myths

While major life events are an obvious reason to review your coverage, regularly updating your insurance ensures it continues to meet your needs—even if your life seems steady. Your lifestyle and possessions evolve over time, often in ways that may not feel monumental but can still impact your insurance needs.
Read more
Receipt

My insurance will cover all costs after an accident | Auto Insurance Myths

While insurance provides essential financial protection, it’s important to understand that most policies have limits, deductibles, and exclusions. Here’s why this myth is misleading and how you can ensure you’re adequately prepared by understanding the details of your policy,
Read more
Signing papers

Once I have insurance, I don’t need to review it | Insurance Myths

This myth could leave you underinsured or paying for coverage that no longer fits your needs. Regularly reviewing your insurance is essential to ensure your policies remain aligned with your current life circumstances. Here’s why.
Read more
Link to: Homeowners Insurance

Visit Our Homeowners Insurance Page

Homeowners Insurance

Life is an ever-changing journey, and it deserves a thoughtful, comprehensive plan to protect the things and people that matter most. Our dedicated team at Murphy Insurance is here to assist you in creating that plan. With a wide range of product options at our disposal, we ensure that your plan is tailored precisely to your requirements. Our commitment to providing clear, intelligent guidance to help you achieve true peace of mind. Learn more about our personal insurance portfolio.

Click here to submit an inquiry to Murphy Insurance or call us at 800 222 8711