ROUTINE MAINTENANCE
As you would expect, there are many areas within your new property that will benefit from regular maintenance.
For example, we recommend that locks and hinges to windows and doors, together with garage doors and cables are regularly lubricated to help keep the mechanisms in good working order.
If at any point you are unsure about the maintenance of your new property, we recommend seeking professional help.
Taking care of your home requires regular maintenance. This helpful checklist is set out according to the seasons and will guide you through the basics of routine maintenance.
SPRING
Spring is the perfect time to check walls, windows, gutters and other external features of your home and plan any summer remedial works.
- Check the roof for any damage sustained over winter and for moss growth.
- Inspect and, if needed, clean guttering and drainage holes. Leaves, moss and debris should all be removed to ensure water drains efficiently.
- If you have air bricks make sure they are clean and clear. These bricks allow air to circulate under the floors of buildings that have a suspended timber floor. If they get blocked you risk damp.
SUMMER
Summer is for outdoor repairs, garden maintenance, and perhaps taking time to review utility bills in time for the coming of autumn.
- Repair and paint any external woodwork, including fencing, fascia’s and doors.
- Repointing is best done in the warmer, drier summer months.
- Prune any large trees or shrubs that are close to your home in order to reduce their water consumption, which can contribute to subsidence.
- Check your exterior paintwork and patch up flaking areas. You may want to look to arrange any decorating works for the summer.
- Check your loft for any signs that water got in over winter and everything is as it should be.
- Trim any climbing plants and don’t let them grow across windows, vents or guttering.
- Take a look at the seals around your baths and sinks to make sure there aren’t leaks. Where sealant is discoloured it may be showing signs of wear which could lead to a leak.
AUTUMN
It’s time to pack away all the outdoor furniture and prepare your home for the coming winter months.
- If you have a flat roof check it for damage and any sitting water.
- Bleed radiators so they work effectively in heating your home.
- Once the leaves have dropped, clear your gutters and drainage holes.
- At the same time make sure all pipes are securely fixed to walls.
WINTER
Stay observant over the winter months, and don’t forget to let some air in to help prevent damp.
- Check your fences and trees for storm damage regularly. Undertake repairs quickly to prevent a fall causing further problems.
- Take a look at your roof – from across the street or the bottom of the garden – for slipped tiles after windy weather.
- Clean leaves and debris from the garden and trim trees to avoid loose or dead branches coming down in strong winds.
- Prevent damp by opening windows occasionally and using extractor fans.
- Check your pipes for leaks after particularly cold weather.
- Clear leaves and debris that may have gathered around your external walls to prevent any risk of damp.
- Make sure there is at least 150mm clearance between your damp proof course and the ground.
- Insulate any external pipes or taps to prevent them freezing and bursting over winter.
MONTHLY MAINTENANCE ESSENTIALS
Check, inspect and maintain these monthly essentials to keep your home performing at its best all year round.
Check the boiler pressure and bleed all radiators.
Clean and clear drains of debris.
Check and clear air vents of blockages and debris.
Follow the manufacturer’s cleaning guidelines for all your kitchen appliances.
Check bath and shower sealant and repair where required.
Test your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors.
Submit your gas and electric meter reading to avoid unexpected bills.