Maintenance — we’ve all heard that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. In the case of home maintenance it can also mean fewer headaches and a lot of money saved. So, when talking about maintaining a new (or new to you) home, what all is really involved? In this blog we’ll delve into the topic of home maintenance tips, and suggest some helpful ways to keep your home in shape for the long run.
Monthly
Keeping up with monthly maintenance around the home is one of the best (and easiest) ways to maintain your home.
●Change HVAC filter
●Check unders sinks and around water fixtures for any leaks
●Clean dryer filters regularly according to the manufacturer’s directions
●Test smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors
●Inspect fire extinguishers
Annual
Just like renewing your car’s registration, some home maintenance items are best done on a yearly basis.
●Have HVAC serviced
●Clean the gutters and examine downspouts
●Test your water heater pressure relief valve
●Vacuum your refrigerator coils
●Clean window wells
●Clean fireplace chimneys (depending on usage)
●Check grout and caulk in bathrooms for needed repair
●Replace batteries for smoke and carbon monoxide detectors every 6 months or when they start beeping
Long Term
Long term items are the ones you need to budget for. Planning ahead and being prepared is key for these maintenance items. Addressing them before they become real issues is always the safest bet.
●Replacing or re-shingling the roof
●Hot water heater replacement
●Replacing a furnace or AC unit
●Replacing windows or doors
This Might Sound Like a Lot…
…and it is! Maintaining a home is a big responsibility, and organization is one of the keys to success. That’s why we take pride in creating comprehensive and thorough reports for our clients.
A quality home inspection report can help you keep track of maintenance items—it’s as simple as reviewing the report and setting calendar reminders. By working along with your inspector, you can even create a prioritized list of recommended repairs and maintenance. This is a boon to homeowners during the sales negotiation and throughout ownership.
Looking to learn more about home buying, selling and inspections? Check out our company blog!
By Chris Earley
