Managing your home

managing your home
we'll give you everything you need to know about taking care of your home.

MONTHLY

Smoke Detectors – check operation by pushing test button to cause it to emit sound. If it doesn't, check the circuit breaker. Check and replace batteries as necessary.
Check Carbon Monoxide detectors, if installed.
Test the GFCI outlet to ensure proper operation.
Clean or replace range hood filter; make sure it exhausts properly.
Check for water leaks around toilets, sinks and around dishwashers.
Inspect, clean, or replace furnace filters, electronic air filters and humidifier plates, or drums.
Clean aerators on faucets regularly and check screens in washing machine supply hoses.
Check water filters and water softener appliances regularly. The life of the filters is dependent upon water usage and local water conditions.
Check the temperature pressure release (TPR) valve on the water heater. The hot water tank should also be drained every six months to prevent sediment build up.

SEMI – ANNUAL

Inspect the roof and chimney for broken or missing tiles or shingles and to identify anything that might cause leaks or problems.
Inspect and clean gutters, down-pipes and down-spouts.
Inspect the outside of the home for the condition of siding, paint, masonry, stucco or other cladding and wood trim.
Inspect and operate doors and windows to ensure proper operation, security and weather resistance.
Check all the caulking in your home around sinks, tubs, showers and toilets to ensure it is in good condition and confirm that there are no leaks, gaps, seepage or mildew.
Check under all the sinks and other water-fed appliances to ensure there are no drips or leaks.
Inspect all windows and doors and sliding glass doors before applying silicone lubricant.
Inspect the foundation, basement or crawl space for abnormal conditions or cracks.
Inspect the main electrical panel, circuit breakers and all GFCI outlets and breakers.

ANNUAL

Examine caulking around windows and doors and repair or renew as necessary.
Inspect condition of concrete slabs and patios for cracks and spalling.
Check condition of septic tank and leech field. Ensure toilets flush properly and there are no odors in the area of the tank or field.
Check all interior and exterior wood trim and touch-up, or repair, as necessary.
Have annual heating system/furnace and hot water tank maintenance performed by licensed contractor (this is to ensure proper calibration and safety, especially necessary for gas furnace and hot water tank).
Schedule professional inspection of all major appliances, particularly if gas fueled.
Inspect paint finishes inside and outside the home – clean, repair, or repaint, as required.
Have fireplace chimney and vents inspected and cleaned by a professional.

SPRING & SUMMER

Make sure all drainage systems are working properly and that water drains away from your home. If it does not, take corrective actions immediately.
Examine window and door seals, repairs as necessary. This will cut down energy costs.
Wash windows and screens, clean weep holes.
Check caulking, inside and out.
Check garage overhead door tighten bolts as needed. Have other repairs done by professionals.
Test exterior faucets for broken pipes. Start and adjust sprinkler system.
Clean gutters and confirm that downspouts or splash blocks drain away from the house.
Look for settling of backfill soils and fill in where needed for positive drainage.
Check exterior paint and stain surfaces (especially stained doors) and refinished as needed.
Check roof for loose shingles, tiles or shakes. Make sure vents are in good condition and are not blocked by debris.
Turn humidifier to summer.

FALL & WINTER

Clean gutters, check downspouts, confirm that splash blocks drain away from the house.
Check foundation, concrete, and yard for settling. Fill in as needed for positive drainage.
Vacuum and clean out forced air registers and ductwork in your home.
Clean humidifier as per manufacturer’s instructions and turn to winter setting.
Remove screens from windows.
Remove hoses from exterior faucets.
After snowfall, brush snow off gutters and away from down spouts.
Remove ice and snow from concrete promptly. Avoid de-icing agents with damaging salts.
On pleasant days, open windows to allow house to breathe.
Decorate safely for the holidays. Do not overload circuits or use worn extension cords.
Be sure to keep air intake and exhaust vents for high-efficiency furnace clear of snow and ice all through the season.
Remove ice and snow from porches and concrete stairs as soon as possible.
In freezing or snow conditions check for ice dams on the overhangs of the roof.
Check for attic leaks, check insulation, look for blocked vents and look to see if any daylight is coming through the roof or around chimneys (it may indicate a leak or hole).
Keep closet doors open and prevent things from being tight against walls for air circulation.

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