You do realize that your home’s condition won’t remain intact for years, right?
There’s a high chance that you might need to make some minor replacements and changes within the first few years of homeownership.
No wonder homeownership is a task within itself.
And even though your home is a rewarding and valuable investment, it will also require you to spend time ensuring everything is in its right order.
So, getting maintenance inspections is not a bad idea….instead, a smart one.
You’ll know exactly when and where to make upgrades and save yourself from upcoming major issues.
In this blog, we will discuss home maintenance inspections and cover a maintenance inspection checklist. This will help you identify and address issues beforehand.
What Is a Home Maintenance Inspection?
A home maintenance inspection serves as a health check for your residence.
And instead of conducting it on your own, hiring a skilled home inspector is better because this assessment comprehensively examines the property’s structure, components, and systems to identify any potential replacements or repairs.
During this inspection, your home inspector will thoroughly assess various aspects, including:
Roof and attic
Basement and foundation
Plumbing and sewage
Electrical system
Chimney
The exterior of the home
Walls, floors, and ceilings
Windows
HVAC system
The visual inspection usually lasts between two to four hours. But, if you own a larger home, it may take longer.
It’s better for you to be present during the home walk-through.
Following the inspection, the inspector will generate a comprehensive report you’ll receive within a day or two.
This report encompasses all findings, ranging from minor to major issues. As a homeowner, you can use this report to make informed decisions about the necessary repairs to maintain your home in good condition.
The Ultimate Seasonal Home Inspection Checklist
Fall
Because of dry weather and moderate temperatures, Fall is ideal for tackling various home maintenance projects.
Before commencing the seasonal checklist, assess your home's interior and exterior. Yes, you can handle it independently, but seeking professional assistance for projects beyond your capabilities is better.
Our fall home maintenance checklist includes the following:
Raking leaves
Aerating the lawn
Inspecting the forced-air heating system
Checking the fireplace
Sealing windows and doors
Replacing old windows for energy efficiency
Touching up exterior siding and trim
Following these recommendations ensures that your home is well-maintained and prepared for the upcoming season.
Winter
You might like the winter season, but your house definitely doesn’t.
This is because winter weather can take a toll on your home and can lead to issues like frozen pipes and roof damage due to below-freezing temperatures.
So, it’s better to proactively protect your home from winter issues before you need urgent professional help during severe weather conditions.
A proactive winter maintenance inspection checklist can be of help here.
So, it’s better to:
Cover your air-conditioning unit
Check the basement for leaks during thaws
Inspect the roof, gutters, and downspouts for storm-induced damage
Be prepared by stocking up on sidewalk salt and ice melt and setting up mouse traps
This can help in addressing potential pest issues during the winter season.
These preventive measures will help keep your home resilient in winter challenges.
Spring
When the ground thaws and trees bloom, it’s the right moment to buckle up for maintaining your home in the spring.
In addition to your routine spring cleaning, you can also undertake general maintenance.
Use the following spring home maintenance checklist to ensure every part of your home is in excellent condition:
Refinish the deck
Power-wash windows and siding
Change the batteries in the carbon monoxide and smoke alarms
Hire a specialist to check and empty the septic tank
Check the roof for leaks and missing, loose, or broken shingles.
Change the air-conditioner filter
Clean window and door screens
Summer
When the sun is shining, and warm weather has settled in, home maintenance should be the last thing on your mind. But, a short summer home maintenance checklist can ease the process. Tackling these indoor tasks at the season’s start can be beneficial for you all season round:
Oil the garage door opener, chain, garage door, and all door hinges
Clear lint from your dryer vent
Clean the kitchen exhaust fan filter
Thoroughly clean refrigerator and freezer coils and empty and clean drip trays
Inspect the dishwasher for leaks
Check around kitchen and bathroom cabinets and toilets for potential leaks
Replace washers in interior and exterior faucets and showerheads if necessary
Seal tile grout
The Benefits of Home Maintenance Inspections
Catch Problems Early
Often, you may not notice an issue coming your way until it’s too late—whether it’s a leaking roof, burst pipes, or an unnoticed termite infestation causing costly structural damage.
A routine home maintenance inspection can help address potential issues early on….potentially saving you significant expenses in the future.
Even before you face substantial repair costs, an inspection can help you make more significant savings. For example, outdated electrical wiring or a leaky faucet might be causing major utility cost losses annually, and regular inspections assist in identifying inefficiencies in your home’s systems, preventing expenses from accumulating.
You’ll Be More Prepared to Sell
While you may not be considering selling your home soon, staying informed about its overall condition is wise to ensure it remains in excellent shape for future possibilities.
Homes naturally undergo wear and tear over time, especially if left without proper attention.
This makes a home maintenance inspection essential to maintain your property’s condition; otherwise, you might discover significant and costly disrepair when it comes time to sell.
If your home has gone years without inspection and necessary upkeep, it could make you feel stuck. Regular maintenance inspections help you proactively address your property’s needs, fostering pride in your home and ensuring you have viable options.
Safety and Peace of Mind
Beyond the factors related to resale, neglecting your home’s condition for long can pose potential risks.
For instance, your furnace might develop a clogged vent, leading to a hazardous backflow of carbon monoxide into your living space.
Thus, scheduling regular maintenance inspections is crucial to guarantee your property remains well-maintained, and safe for you and your family.
Conclusion
In conclusion, home maintenance inspections are ideal for preventing your house from undergoing major issues. And eventually downgrading its value.
Once you have a home maintenance checklist in your hand, maintaining the property becomes relatively easier. You’ll know what to inspect and when to inspect. Eventually, saving yourself from fixing costly issues in the near future.
Another factor that can make the process more seamless is hiring a professional inspector and contacting home inspection companies like Homesight, Inc. This will give a professional hint to your home maintenance and upgrade your property’s game.
Schedule your inspection now with Homesight, Inc and make the process worth it!
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