You’ve Got the Keys – Now What?

Keys to Your New Home

Congratulations – you’re a homeowner. You have the keys to your new home. Now, what should you do to protect your investment? Here are a few recommendations for routine maintenance to help maintain your property. This list is not intended to be comprehensive but provides a good foundation. For more home maintenance tips and energy saving advice contact your Buy Your Side Home Inspections 407.780.0911.

As soon as you move in:

• Change all locks on exterior entrances to your home.
• Locate the main shut-offs to plumbing, electrical and heating systems.
• Replace batteries in all smoke detectors and install fire extinguishers near stoves, in garages, and near fireplaces / wood stoves.
• Address any items on the Home Inspection Report that require immediate attention.

On a monthly schedule:

• Test all GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter) devices.
• Check your fire extinguishers to be sure they are fully charged.
• Tighten loose toilets and repair/replace faulty flush mechanisms.
• Ensure water is not leaking during showering.
• Check all plumbing fixtures for leakage and repair or replace as needed.
• Check grout and caulk in bathrooms.
• Replace or clean heating and cooling air filters.
• Secure gutters and downspouts and remove any debris.

Twice a year in the Spring and Fall:

• Check your roof coverings, chimney and flashings for damage.
• Check for evidence of leakage, condensations or critters.
• Trim tree branches and shrubs away from your home.
• 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 rotten wood.
• Check all walkways for movement and repair any trip hazards that may develop.
• Clean and repair window and frames as needed.
• Test the garage door opener to ensure the auto-reverse function is working properly.
• Clean and lubricate rollers, tracks, and hinges on the overhead doors.
• Clean or replace exhaust fan filters.
• Clean and inspect all appliances as suggested by the manufacturer.

Once a Year:

• 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.
• If you have well water, have your well tested and have your pump and service tank inspected for leaks or evidence of wear.
• Have your home inspected for wood-destroying insects (termites, carpenter ants, etc.)