
With busy schedules, it’s easy to let regular home maintenance fall off your to-do list. Guilty.
Here are three things you should do annually to take care of your home. And better yet, if it makes sense to you, have an automatic maintenance plan set up with the experts.
At first glance, it seems like a lot of money to spend every year for maybe nothing that needs to be repaired. However, the upfront costs will be well worth it in the long run, helping you avoid more costly damage to your home and unnecessary distress and disruptions for your family.
Please take the time and do your homework when it comes to hiring any business. You want a reputable, reliable and trust-worthy company that services your home properly and doesn’t overcharge or suggest unneeded repairs.
1) HVAC (Heating/Cooling) System
This is the biggie for most homeowners. Your heating and cooling system affects your day-to-day life all year long, and you want it running smoothly and efficiently.
No one wants to come home to no heat on a January night (been there) or have their a/c break down during the hottest week of summer (been there, too)! These maintenance visits are scheduled usually in the early fall and the spring before your system needs to really crank out the heat or air conditioning.
Here’s what to expect:
A technician will test, inspect, and clean as necessary to make sure all is safe and functioning properly. (My guy checks my humidifier and changes my filter too 😉)
I usually pay around $80 for each visit.
Pest Control and Wood Destroying Insect Inspections
No one likes to admit it but some neighborhoods can have rats, especially more urban areas … and other creatures and pests.
True story. Our first neighborhood had a rat problem – one got in our basement. NEVER put rat poison in your recessed ceiling. Nope. Not a good idea – first time homebuyer mistake 🤦🏽♀️😂.
And don’t get me started on the damage (and cost!!) that an unchecked termite infestation could do to your home!
Pest control really isn’t a true do-it-yourself job, AGAIN – don’t use rat poison in your home🙄. Sure, you can set up a trap or two, or even get out some ant spray, but it really isn’t as effective as preventative measures used by a professional technician.
HOWEVER, a round of Ortho Home Defense (not sponsored) around the foundation (inside and out) twice a year, does a great job at preventing creepy crawly things. (I got that tip from a professional and it has saved me a ton of $$)!
Here’s what to expect:
A service contract with a pest control company will schedule regular maintenance and inspections throughout the year. They know what to look out for at certain times of the year and at the change of seasons.
It’s all about “control” and preventing an infestation of a wide range of pests such as mice, roaches, spiders, flies, termites, hornets, carpenter ants, etc.
Chimney Sweep (not just for fireplaces)
This task is definitely not a DIY one since it can be dangerous, dirty and involves climbing on a roof!
Cleaning and inspecting your chimney requires a certified chimney sweeper whose expertise will help prevent your fireplace from experiencing any combustion issues or creosote buildup that could cause a fire in your home.
Even if you don’t have a fireplace, some homes have a chimney that is used to vent your gas heat and/or your gas water heater. Double check your home’s set up.
Here’s what to expect:
You should have your chimney inspected and cleaned at least once a year, more if you use it often. This is critical before you begin using your fireplace for the season!
A chimney sweep will clean the fireplace, check the firebox, liners, smoke chambers and flue, and the chimney’s exterior. They have the equipment and the expertise to do this efficiently and safely (and without a mess!).
Service contracts could also include wood-burning stoves.
A sweep will make sure that birds and other critters haven’t set up a nest that can block the chimney. Plus, leaves and other debris can collect and obstruct the chimney.
If your chimney needs repairs, the company can handle this too.
Again, you can develop a relationship with a certain company or technician who knows your home and chimney.
This is something that’s on my to do list.
As you can see, investing in service contracts upfront will make your life easier as a homeowner. Your home is being monitored and serviced on a regular basis, helping to avoid more costly and preventable damage later on.
Email me if you have any questions about service contracts or want any recommendations.
Hi, there!
I'm Kyndra and I love helping people buy and sell no matter what stage of life they are in. From first timers to downsizers and all the chapters in between. Let me know how I can help you make your real estate dreams come true.
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