Home Maintenance Checklist

Maintain Your Home with This Handy Checklist

The following list of tips comes mostly from years of being in the trades myself and as a Realtor, paying attention to the advise my home inspector offers my buyers & sellers. In part, this will help you protect what is probably your most valuable investment from the damaging effects of weather, wear and tear, and general mishaps. (Advice I'm passing on, I'm not a licensed contractor or inspector, just a homeowner of many years and a licensed Realtor).

Fire Safety: 
- Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. (In your rental properties too).
- Replace batteries a minimum of twice a year. (we do it when we Fall  Back & Spring Forward witrh Daylight Savings Time).
- Check and/or replace fire extinguishers. (if you live in a condo complex or apartment, know where your HOA stations them).
- Clear lint traps, hood vents and fans. (dryer lines need to be rigid material (not flex pipe) over a certain length, know your codes).
- Clean and inspect chimney. (the biggest mistake I see here, is folks that say "I never use it, why bother"...BIG MISTAKE)!

Weatherproofing: 
- Check for leaks around windows and doors. 
- Fill any cracks or gaps. 
- Upgrade insulation to improve heating and cooling efficiency. 
- Add or replace weatherstripping.

Inspect Building Exterior: 
- Check roof for leaks, especially around vents, skylights and chimneys. (my home inspector recommends this annually in     September, it can save you thousands in December).
- Power-wash exterior, noting the condition of siding. (recommend this professionally done, seen a lot of damage done by inexperienced homeowners).
- Inspect landscaping, paying attention to low spots or signs of pooling water. (you also want the grade (or slope) running away from your house to prevent pooling at your foundation).
- Clean gutters and downspouts.

Check for Damage: 
- Deal with any pests in basements and attics as well as eaves of roof, garage perimeter (interior) and garden perimeters.
- Inspect foundation and fill any cracks with epoxy. 
- Check for dampness and for signs of mold and mildew. 
- Assess and/or remove any dead or severely damaged trees.

Annual Servicing: 
- Inspect and service hot water tank. 
- Test faucets, and change washers and screens. 
- Clean and replace HVAC system filters. 
- Service HVAC system. (Your local Gas & Electric company usually offers this for free, I know they do in CA).
- Check outlets and replace light bulbs.

Appliances & "Spare Bathrooms"

• I see folks that never use a bathroom in the house or many that never use their diswasher. In older homes with cast iron pipes especially, it's a good idea to run your toilet, shower, sink and dishwasher at least once per quarter to keep moisture in the pipes and dishwasher. The seals in your dishwasher can dry out prematurely and I've even seen their motors seize from non-use. Cast iron pipes like to be wet or the rust excellerates and clogs harden. (Tips from plumbers I know).
• More tips to come, keep you home in good shaope and it'll take care of you while living in it and when you sell it!