Owning a home comes with many rewards, but along with the pride of ownership and sense of security it gives you, comes the responsibility of keeping your place in tip-top shape. All the safety and maintenance issues you used to hand over to your landlord to fix are now yours to deal with. This checklist includes high priority tasks to keep you and your family safe and general maintenance tips that will keep your place structurally sound and lower the cost of routine upkeep.
Check Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarms
If your detectors are ten years or older, it’s time to replace them. Test the batteries monthly and change them once a year. If you tend to forget to change them, put it on your calendar or schedule it to coincide with an event that you’ll be sure to remember like when the clocks change or on a national holiday.
Clean Dryer Vents
Remove lint every time you use your dryer to avoid buildup. From time to time wipe the vent with a damp cloth or vacuum it to clean it more thoroughly. Not only will it prevent potential fires, but it will also save you money on energy costs by drying your clothes more efficiently.
Install Fire Extinguishers
Since most home fires start in the kitchen, you need an extinguisher there at a minimum, but it’s a good idea to also place them in other locations around the house. Extinguishers should be installed near exits, away from heat sources, and up high enough that kids can’t reach them.
Clean Exhaust Fans
Fans help remove moisture and smells from your home but need to be clean to do their job properly. To keep the hardware working efficiently, remove the bathroom and kitchen exhaust fans and clean them thoroughly once a year. This will help reduce cooking smells in the kitchen and mold growth in the bathroom.
Maintain the Roof
Taking care of your roof can add years to its life meaning you can delay the inevitable (and expensive) replacement. In addition to preventing leaks that help you avoid water damage, regular maintenance of the shingles will also help your heating and cooling systems work more efficiently.
Test the Sump Pump
If your home has a sump pump in the basement, it needs to be tested twice a year. Being proactive to prevent flooding can save you a lot of stress and expense. If the water level is overflowing, the pump may not be working properly. Check the energy source and remove debris around the pump to keep it clear.
Clear Your Gutters
Just like the sump pump, gutters need to be clear of debris to do their job efficiently. Twice a year in spring and fall, check for leaks, remove leaves, and replace any broken parts.
Check for Critters
Look around the exterior and interior of your home for signs of pests or furry friends. If you spot cracks in the foundation or holes in the roof, take care of them right away to avoid any unwelcome visitors taking up residence. Consider calling in a professional pest inspector once a year as well.
Inspect the Plumbing
Check the water heater, pipes, and supply line for signs of corrosion or leaks regularly. If you catch problems early, you’ll avoid potential flooding, which can cause devasting damage. If you spot a problem that you can’t fix, call in the experts as soon as possible.
Tidy Up the Yard
In addition to providing a pleasant space to relax and play in, a yard that’s free of debris and junk makes for a safer spot — especially if you live in an area prone to wildfires. Remove any dead vegetation, trim tree branches, and mow the lawn regularly. Put garden tools and toys away when they’re not in use.
