A practical guide to looking after your new home
Congratulations on your new home! Here's a practical guide to help you look after your new space:
Before You Move In
- Inspect the property: Take a thorough walk-through to identify any damages, defects, or issues. Document everything with photos and notes.
- Check the appliances: Test all appliances, including the oven, dishwasher, washing machine, and dryer, to ensure they're in good working condition.
- Check the plumbing: Turn on the faucets to test the water pressure and check for leaks.
- Check the electrical system: Test the lights, outlets, and switches to ensure they're functioning properly.
- Check the HVAC system: Test the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system to ensure it's working efficiently.
Daily Maintenance
- Clean as you go: Clean up spills and messes immediately to prevent damage and stains.
- Dust regularly: Dust surfaces, including furniture, lamps, and knick-knacks, to prevent dust buildup.
- Vacuum and mop: Vacuum and mop floors regularly to keep them clean and prevent dirt buildup.
- Check and replace air filters: Check and replace air filters in your HVAC system, vacuum cleaners, and air purifiers regularly.
- Check and repair leaks: Check for leaks under sinks, around toilets, and in the roof, and repair them promptly to prevent water damage.
Weekly Maintenance
- Clean the bathroom: Clean the bathroom, including the shower, sink, and toilet, to prevent grout and soap scum buildup.
- Clean the kitchen: Clean the kitchen, including the counters, sink, and stove, to prevent crumbs and spills from building up.
- Check and replace light bulbs: Check and replace light bulbs as needed to ensure your home is well-lit.
- Check and clean out gutters: Check and clean out gutters and downspouts to ensure proper water flow and prevent damage.
- Check and repair door and window seals: Check and repair door and window seals to prevent air leaks and moisture buildup.
Monthly Maintenance
- Check and replace smoke detector batteries: Check and replace smoke detector batteries to ensure your home is safe.
- Check and replace carbon monoxide detector batteries: Check and replace carbon monoxide detector batteries to ensure your home is safe.
- Check and clean out dryer vent: Check and clean out dryer vent to prevent fires and improve efficiency.
- Check and inspect roof: Check and inspect your roof for damaged, missing, or loose shingles, and repair or replace them as needed.
- Check and inspect foundation: Check and inspect your home's foundation for cracks, damage, or signs of settlement, and repair or replace as needed.
Seasonal Maintenance
- Spring:
- Check and clean out gutters and downspouts
- Check and repair door and window seals
- Check and replace air filters
- Summer:
- Check and inspect roof for damaged or missing shingles
- Check and inspect foundation for cracks or damage
- Check and replace light bulbs
- Fall:
- Check and clean out gutters and downspouts
- Check and repair door and window seals
- Check and replace air filters
- Winter:
- Check and inspect roof for damaged or missing shingles
- Check and inspect foundation for cracks or damage
- Check and replace smoke detector batteries
Additional Tips
- Keep a maintenance log: Keep a log of all maintenance tasks, including dates and descriptions, to track your home's maintenance history.
- Hire a professional: If you're not comfortable with certain maintenance tasks, consider hiring a professional to help you.
- Stay organized: Keep all maintenance supplies, including cleaning products and tools, organized and easily accessible.
- Prioritize: Prioritize maintenance tasks based on urgency and importance to ensure your home remains safe and well-maintained.
By following this practical guide, you'll be well on your way to keeping your new home in top condition and ensuring it remains a comfortable and safe place to live for years to come.