Home Maintenance Tips

Your home is one of your greatest investments. The best way to keep it in sound condition is through regular maintenance. Below are some basic home maintenance tips. If you were able to attend your home inspection, you will have heard many of these already. This is not intended to be an inclusive list of all home maintenance items.

When the House is now Your Home

Change all locks on exterior entrances for improved security.
Replace batteries in all smoke detectors. Put a note on your calendar to replace them in one year.
Create a fire escape plan for your new home. Consult your local fire department for advice on what to do in case of a fire.
Review your home inspection report for any items requiring immediate attention.
Learn the location of main shut-offs for your plumbing, electrical and heating systems.

Monthly Maintenance

Check your fire extinguishers to be sure they are fully charged.
Repair or replace leaking faucets or shower heads.
Check grout and caulk in bathrooms. Ensure water is not escaping during showering. Check below all plumbing fixtures for leakage.
Re-secure loose toilets and repair or replace faulty flush mechanisms.
Replace or clean heating and cooling air filters.
Clean all gutters and downspouts. Check that downspouts are secure and the discharge is appropriate.
Test all GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter) devices.

Spring and Fall

Examine your roof for damage to the roof coverings, chimney and flashings.
If possible, look in the attic. Check for evidence of leakage, condensations or critters.
Check your landscaping around structures. Trim back tree branches and shrubs to be sure they are not contacting any structures.
Inspect the exterior walls and foundation of the house for damage, cracking or movement. Look for bird nests, insect and critter activity.
Clean and test windows to be sure they are operating correctly. Add caulking and weather-stripping if needed. Inspect for evidence of rotin any wood. Paint and repair the window sills and frames as needed.
Test the garage door opener. Be sure the auto-reverse mechanism is responding properly. Clean and lubricate rollers, tracks, and hinges on the overhead doors.
Clean and inspect all appliances as suggested by the manufacturer.

Annually

Replace smoke detector batteries.
Have the heating, cooling and water heater systems cleaned and serviced.
Have chimney inspected and cleaned. Be sure the rain caps and vermin screens are secure.
Call HomePro Inspections for an annual maintenance inspection!

Complete Home Inspections in Richmond Metro Area

Our professional home inspections are offered to homebuyers and sellers in the greater Richmond metropolitan area. HomePro Inspections is motivated by our belief that everyone is entitled to a suitable home. Our investigative property evaluations are designed to expand your knowledge of a property so that you can make an informed decision about a purchase. Contact us today to request an appointment.