Upon Taking Ownership
After taking possession of your home, there are some maintenance and safety issues that should be addressed immediately. The following checklist should help you undertake these improvements:
q 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.
q Install smoke detectors on each level of the home. Ensure that there is a smoke detector outside all sleeping areas. Replace batteries in any existing smoke detectors and test them.
q If gas furnace(s) exist, install a carbon monoxide detector, preferably on the floor where bedrooms are located.
q Purchase a fire extinguisher and place in a good location, such as the kitchen.
q 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.
q Examine driveways and walkways for trip hazards. Undertake repairs where necessary.
q Examine the interior of the home for trip hazards. Loose or torn carpeting and flooring should be repaired.
q Undertake improvements to all stairways, decks, porches and landings where there is a risk of falling or stumbling.
q Review you home inspection report for any items that require immediate improvement or further investigation. Address these areas as required.
q Investigate the location of the main shut-offs for the plumbing, gas, and electrical systems.
Regular Maintenance
q Check that fire extinguisher(s) are fully charged. Re-charge if necessary.
q Examine heating/cooling air filters and replace as necessary. (Use only pleated paper filters for best results)
q Inspect and clean if needed humidifiers and electronic air cleaners if present.
q Clean gutters and downspouts if trees are near the house. Ensure that downspouts are secure, and that the discharge of the downspouts is appropriate. They should discharge several feet from the house.
q 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.
q Repair or replace leaking faucets or showerheads.
q Secure loose toilets, or repair flush mechanisms that become troublesome.
q If your home has a septic tank, you should use a product that ensures there is a sufficient bacterium to eliminate solid waste. Products such as “Rid-X” when used according to instructions introduce bacteria into the septic tank that cause the solid waste to break down to liquid. Otherwise if the tank becomes full the lines may become clogged with solid waste and have to be replaced at a tremendous expense. The septic tank should be pumped out every 5 years.
q Examine the roof for evidence of damage to roof coverings, flashings and chimneys.
q 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.
q Trim back tree branches and shrubs to ensure that they are not in contact with the house.
q Inspect the exterior walls and foundation for evidence of damage, cracking or movement. Watch for bird nests or other vermin or insect activity.
q Survey the basement and/or crawl space walls for evidence of moisture seepage.
q Look at overhead wires coming to the house. They should be secure and clear of trees or other obstructions.
q Ensure that the grade of the land around the house encourages water to flow away from the foundation.
q Inspect all driveways, walkways, decks, porches, and landscape components for evidence of deterioration, movement or safety hazards.
q 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.
q Test all ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) devices, as identified in the inspection report.
q Shut off isolating valves for exterior hose bibs in the fall, if below freezing temperatures are anticipated.
q Inspect for evidence of wood boring insect activity. Eliminate any wood to soil contact around the perimeter of the home.
q 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.
q Replace or clean exhaust hood filters.
q Clean, inspect and/or service all appliances as per the manufacturer’s recommendations.
q Replace smoke detector and carbon monoxide detector batteries.
q Have the heating and cooling systems cleaned and serviced.
q Have chimneys inspected and cleaned. Ensure that rain caps and vermin screens are secured.
q If the house utilizes a well, check and service the pump and holding tank. Have the water quality tested.
q Have the home inspected by a licensed termite 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!