Yes, it’s true: Fall is here, and that means winter is just around the corner.
Even with our mild San Diego County winters, this is always a good time to invest in a little home maintenance so your abode is running smoothly. You’ll also catch any potentially large (and expensive) problems before they get out of hand.
Follow this checklist of fall fixes, and you’ll be in good shape for the winter.
INTERIOR
- Check ceiling and surfaces around windows for evidence of moisture.
- Check caulking around showers, bathtubs, sinks and toilet bases.
- Ensure all stairs and railings do not have any loose sections.
- Test all fire and safety systems, including carbon monoxide detectors.
HEATING AND COOLING
- Clean or change furnace filters.
- Keep area around heating and cooling equipment clear.
- Inspect refrigerant lines.
ELECTRICAL
- Periodically check for exposed wiring and cable. Replace as necessary.
- Check all lamp cords, extension cords and receptacles for wear.
- Trip circuit breakers every six months and ground fault circuit interrupters monthly.
DOORS AND WINDOWS
- Look for loose or missing glazing putty.
- Check caulking for deterioration at the openings and joints between dissimilar materials.
- Examine weather stripping and door sweeps.
- Check for broken glass and damaged or missing screens.
PLUMBING
- Check all faucets, hose bibs and supply valves for leaking.
- Check for evidence of leaks around and under sinks, showers, toilets and tubs.
- Inspect lawn sprinkler system for leaky valves and exposed lines.
- Check the main water shut-off valve for operation and leakage.
ROOF
- Check for any missing, loose or damaged shingles or tiles.
- Look for open seams, blisters and bald areas on flat roofs.
- Clean gutters, strainers and downspouts.
- Check flashing around all surface projections, sidewalls and protrusions.
- Trim back all tree limbs and vegetation away from the roof.
FOUNDATION AND EXTERIOR
- Check foundation walls and floors for cracking, heaving, spalling, deterioration or efflorescence.
- Inspect chimney for loose, deteriorated or missing mortar or bricks.
- If your foundation is raised, verify crawlspace has no moisture or leaks.
- Inspect all decks, patios, porches, stairs and railings for deterioration.
- Cut back and trim all vegetation from structures.
Checklist provided by Pillar to Post Home Inspectors.