As we go into winter it is always a good idea to have all the systems and structures checked. All the repairs and maintenance taken care of before the big snow and the severe temperatures. Below is a list from David Baillargeon of Casced View Home Inspections. www.cascadeview.net
Spring and Fall Maintenance Punch List
- Clean gutters and downspouts. Ensure that downspouts are secure, and that the discharge of the
Downspouts is appropriate. Remove debris from window and foundation wells.
- Carefully inspect the condition of shower enclosures. Repair or replace deteriorated grout and
Caulk. Ensure that water is not escaping the enclosure during showering. Check below all
Plumbing fixtures for evidence of leakage.
- Repair or replace leaking faucets or shower heads.
- Secure loose toilets, or repair flush mechanisms that become troublesome.
- Examine the roof for evidence of damage to roof coverings, flashings and chimneys.
- Look in the attic (if accessible) to ensure that roof vents are not obstructed. Check for evidence
Of leakage, condensation or vermin activity. Level out insulation if needed.
- Trim back tree branches and shrubs to ensure that they are not in contact with the house. Watch
Out for power lines, use caution and never touch a downed or secure power line!
- Inspect the exterior walls and foundation for evidence of damage, cracking or movement. Watch
For bird nests or other vermin or insect activity.
- Survey the basement and/or crawl space walls for evidence of moisture seepage. Call your local home inspector
If you do not feel comfortable with this. CVHI performs maintenance inspections.
- Look at overhead wires coming to the house. They should be secure and clear of trees or other
Obstructions.
- Ensure that the grade of the land around the house encourages water to flow away from the
Foundation.
- Inspect all driveways, walkways, decks, porches, and landscape components for evidence of
Deterioration, movement or safety hazards. Fill all cracks in pavement or concrete to avoid water intrusion
And further cracking or deterioration. Use sand on walkways in the winter and not ice melting products as
These will damage your concrete.
- Clean windows and test their operation. Improve caulking and weather-stripping as necessary.
Watch for evidence of rot in wood window frames. Paint and repair window sills and frames as
Necessary.
-Test all ground fault circuit interrupter. GFCI’S
- Shut off isolating valves for exterior hose bibs in the fall, if below freezing temperatures are
Anticipated and have the sprinkler systems blown out by a licensed landscape contractor.
- Test the Temperature and Pressure Relief (TPR) Valve on water heaters. If the drain line leaks after testing a replacement
Valve should be installed by a plumber
- Inspect for evidence of wood boring insect activity. Eliminate any wood/soil contact around the
Perimeter of the home.
-Test the overhead garage door opener, to ensure that the auto-reverse mechanism is responding
Properly. Clean and lubricate hinges, rollers and tracks on overhead doors.
-Replace or clean exhaust hood filters.
-Clean, inspect and/or service all appliances as per the manufacturer’s recommendations.
ANNUALLY
-Replace smoke detector batteries and test alarms.
-Have the heating cooling and water heater systems cleaned and serviced, by licensed HVAC contractors
- Have chimneys inspected and cleaned. Ensure that rain caps and vermin screens are secured.
-Examine the electrical panels, wiring and electrical components for evidence of overheating.
Ensure that all components are secure. Flip the breakers on and off to ensure that they are not
Sticky.
- If the house utilizes a well, check and service the pump and holding tank. Have the water quality
Tested. If the property has a septic system, have the tank inspected (and pumped as needed).
- If your home is in an area prone to wood destroying insects (termites, carpenter ants, etc.), have
The home inspected by a licensed specialist. Preventative treatments may be recommended in
Some cases.