Imagine catching a leaky roof before it becomes a flood or spotting a crack in the foundation before it threatens your home’s stability. A yearly home maintenance inspection empowers you to identify small issues early, saving you time, money, and headaches. With a simple checklist and a little effort, you can keep your home in tip-top shape and avoid costly surprises down the road. Use this list as your guide to stay ahead of potential problems.
Gather Your Supplies
- Binoculars (for roof inspection)
- Flashlight (for inspecting dimly lit spaces)
- Ladder (to reach roofs, gutters, and higher areas)
- Electrical tester (to check outlets and circuits; ask your local hardware store for guidance)
- Moisture meter (to detect hidden dampness)
- Screwdriver set (for tightening fixtures and covers)
- Smartphone or camera (to document areas of concern)
- Notepad and pen (for notetaking and listing repairs that need to be made)
Roof
- Conduct a visual inspection of your roof from the ground with binoculars. If necessary, climb the ladder to get a closer look.
- Look for missing or damaged shingles, rusted or damaged flashing around vents, chimneys, or skylights.
- Check for signs of moss or algae and debris accumulation.
- Clear any debris from clogged gutters and downspouts. Check that your gutters, gutter guards, and downspouts are in good condition.
- Make sure the downspouts direct water away from your foundation.
- Look under your roof from inside the attic for water stains, wet insulation, or visible leaks.
Exterior: Siding, Windows, and Doors
- Inspect siding for cracks, warping, or peeling paint.
- Look for crumbling stucco, brick, or loose mortar.
- Check where two materials (like siding and brick) meet. These areas are prone to water infiltration.
- Examine caulking and weather stripping for cracks or gaps. Check seals for drafts or moisture buildup.
- Test windows and doors to ensure they open and close smoothly without sticking.
Foundation and Grading
- Walk the perimeter of your home. Check that the ground slopes away from the foundation to prevent puddles of standing water.
- Look for cracks, bulges, or other structural concerns. Small hairline cracks are normal, but large gaps or shifts require professional attention.
- Monitor retaining walls for signs of leaning or crumbling.
Walls, Ceilings, and Floors
- Inspect interior walls and ceilings for discoloration, bubbling paint, or peeling wallpaper.
- Look for cracks above doors or windows, which could indicate the foundation settling.
- Check floors for unevenness, soft spots, or squeaks.
- Look for stains or damage that may signal underlying issues.
- Pay extra attention to beams, joists, and trusses for structural damage.
Basement, Attic, and Crawl Spaces
- Look for signs of moisture or mold. Check walls and floors for dampness or mildew.
- Ensure attic insulation is intact and not blocking vents.
- Make sure there are no signs of pests.
- Examine floor joists and roof supports for sagging, cracking, or insect damage.
- Verify that crawl spaces are free of standing water and adequately ventilated.
HVAC System
- Test heating and cooling systems. Turn them on to check for unusual sounds or odors.
- Replace air filters and clean vent covers.
- Inspect the furnace and air conditioning units for rust, leaks, or wear.
- Verify that bathroom and kitchen exhaust fans vent to the exterior and are free of debris.
Electrical System
- Test outlets with an electrical tester.
- Inspect the electrical panel for scorch marks, loose wires, or burning smells.
- Replace batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and test that they work.
- Secure loose outlet covers and check visible wiring for fraying or damage.
Plumbing System
- Check faucets, showerheads, and toilets for leaks, drips or corrosion.
- Check for loose handles or connections.
- Test water pressure and observe how quickly sinks and tubs drain.
- Inspect under sinks and around toilets for water stains, dampness, or mold.
Appliances
- Garbage disposal: Clean thoroughly and check for blockages.
- Water heater: Flush to remove sediment and extend its lifespan.
- Refrigerator and freezer: Clean coils and empty drip trays.
- Fire extinguishers: Check the pressure gauge and expiration date.
If you’re not comfortable doing a home inspection yourself, consider hiring a professional home inspector. This typically costs about the same as when you hire an inspector to check out a home you’re going to buy. When you are ready to make repairs, and you cannot do them yourself, make sure to hire a reputable contractor.
Finally, your home is one of your greatest investments. Be sure to protect it with the right insurance for added peace of mind.
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.
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