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MAINTENANCE ADVICE
Upon taking ownership
After taking possession of a new home, there are some maintenance and safety
issues that should be addressed immediately. The following checklist should
help you undertake these improvements:
1. Change the locks on all exterior entrances, for improved security.
2. Check that all windows and doors are secure. Improve window hardware
as necessary. Security rods can be added to sliding windows and doors.
Consideration could also be given to a security system.
3. Install smoke detectors on each level of the home. Ensure that there
is a smoke detector outside all sleeping areas. Replace batteries on any
existing smoke detectors and test them. Make a note to replace batteries again
in one year.
4. Create a plan of action in the event of a fire in your home. Ensure
that there is an operable window or door in every room of the house. Consult
with your local fire department regarding fire safety issues and what to do in
the event of fire.
5. Examine driveways and walkways for trip hazards. Undertake repairs
where necessary.
6. Examine the interior of the home for trip hazards. Loose or torn
carpeting and flooring should be repaired.
7. Undertake improvements to all stairways, decks, porches and landings
where there is a risk of falling or stumbling.
8. Review your home inspection report for any items that require immediate
improvement or further investigation. Address these areas as required.
9. Install rain caps and vermin screens on all chimney flues, as
necessary.
10. Investigate the location of the main shut-offs for the plumbing,
heating and electrical systems. If you attended the home inspection, these
items would have been pointed out to you.
Regular Maintenance
Every Month
1. Check that fire extinguisher(s) are fully charged. Re-charge if
necessary.
2. Examine heating/cooling air filters and replace or clean as necessary.
3. Inspect and clean humidifiers and electronic air cleaners.
4. If the house has hot water heating, bleed radiator valves.
5. Clean gutters and downspouts. Ensure that downspouts are secure, and
that the discharge of the downspouts is appropriate. Remove debris from window
wells.
6. Carefully inspect the condition of shower enclosures. Repair or
replace deteriorated grout and caulk. Ensure that water is not escaping the
enclosure during showering. Check below all plumbing fixtures for evidence of
leakage.
7. Repair or replace leaking faucets or shower heads.
8. Secure loose toilets, or repair flush mechanisms that become
troublesome.
Spring and Fall
1.Examine the roof for evidence of damage to roof coverings, flashings
and chimneys.
2. Look in the attic (if accessible) to ensure that roof vents are not
obstructed. Check for evidence of leakage, condensation or vermin activity.
Level out insulation if needed.
3.Trim back tree branches and shrubs to ensure that they are not in
contact with the house.
4. Inspect the exterior walls and foundation for evidence of damage,
cracking or movement. Watch for bird nests or other vermin or insect activity.
5. Survey the basement and/or crawl space walls for evidence of moisture
seepage.
6. Look at overhead wires coming to the house. They should be secure and
clear of trees or other obstructions.
7. Ensure that the grade of the land around the house encourages water to
flow away from the foundation.
8. Inspect all driveways, walkways, decks, porches, and landscape
components for evidence of deterioration, movement or safety hazards.
9. Clean windows and test their operation. Improve caulking and
weather-stripping as necessary. Watch for evidence of rot in wood window
frames. Paint and repair window sills and frames as necessary.
10. Test all ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) devices, as identified
in the inspection report.
11. Shut off isolating valves for exterior hose bibs in the fall, if below
freezing temperatures are anticipated.
12. Test the Temperature and Pressure Relief (TPR) Valve on water heaters.
13. Inspect for evidence of wood boring insect activity. Eliminate any
wood/soil contact around the perimeter of the home.
14. Test the overhead garage door opener, to ensure that the auto-reverse
mechanism is responding properly. Clean and lubricate hinges, rollers and
tracks on overhead doors.
15. Replace or clean exhaust hood filters.
16. Clean, inspect and/or service all appliances as per the manufacturer’s
recommendations.
Annually
1. Replace smoke detector batteries.
2. Have the heating, cooling and water heater systems cleaned and
serviced.
3. Have chimneys inspected and cleaned. Ensure that rain caps and vermin
screens are secure.
4. Examine the electrical panels, wiring and electrical components for
evidence of overheating. Ensure that all components are secure. Flip the
breakers on and off to ensure that they are not sticky.
5. If the house utilizes a well, check and service the pump and holding
tank. Have the water quality tested. If the property has a septic system, have
the tank inspected (and pumped as needed).
6. If your home is in an area prone to wood destroying insects (termites,
carpenter ants, etc.), have the home inspected by a licensed specialist.
Preventative treatments may be recommended in some cases.
Prevention is the best approach
Although we’ve heard it many times, nothing could be truer than the old cliché
“an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” Preventative maintenance is
the best way to keep your house in great shape. It also reduces the risk of
unexpected repairs and improves the odds of selling your house at fair market
value, when the time comes.
Please feel free to contact our office should you have any questions regarding
the operation or maintenance of your home. Enjoy your home!
BEST OF LUCK IN YOUR NEW HOME
Phil Rubenstein
Total Home Inspection,
Inc.