Establishing and following a regular homecare routine can go a long way in preventing potential issues and ensuring the longevity of your home. By incorporating these sometimes-underestimated tips into your routine, you can keep your home well-maintained, comfortable, and free from unnecessary repairs.
With inflation high and construction costs skyrocketing, it is important to ensure that the value of your home and your rebuild costs are in line with the current fair market value. It is obligatory to have homeowners insurance if you have a mortgage, as your mortgage lender requires you to safeguard their stake in your property. But, it is also important to stay up-to-date with your policy; this includes things like large purchase of valuables to a new added-value construction. I encourage you to reach out to your insurance company and keep yourself informed.
Addressing small leaks in your house as soon as you see them is crucial for several reasons. Even minor leaks can escalate into significant water damage over time, leading to expensive repairs and potential structural issues. These leaks can contribute to the growth of mold and mildew, posing health risks to you and your family. The last thing anyone wants is to deal with water damage, especially when it is preventable.
DIY projects are great, but there are some improvements or repairs that you just aren’t qualified to do (I know, such a bummer). Building a shelf, installing lighting fixtures, and planting seasonal flowers are great DIY projects. But you’ll probably want to avoid all things electrical or replacing the shingles on your roof. Finding professional contractors is the best way to prevent both your house and yourself from going up in flames! Contact me for my list of trusted contractors.
Warranties are a great way to save money and avoid costs of a larger repair. Keeping track of the dates on your warranties allows you to ensure that you are making the greatest use of said warranties. Have someone check your roof every other year and have your appliances and systems services before your warranty runs out to save on unnecessary costs.
I can’t emphasize this enough. If you pull permits for the work you do on your house (which you should!), always double check that those permits are closed out and final. Make sure that your contractor supplies you with finalized permits as a condition with the completion of their work. Finalizing permits is crucial as it streamlines the process of selling your house, ensuring a smoother transaction and reducing potential complications.
Having a handyman that you trust in your contact book is of utmost importance. I cannot tell you the amount of times that I have contacted my vendor for both big and small jobs, he has saved me both time and money. Having a reliable contact accessible to you can be the difference between a $50 quick fix and a $1,500 repair. Contact me for my trusted handyman!
I know it’s a pain and at the very bottom of the laundry list of items to do, but you will thank yourself for it once it’s complete. I have a Google Doc of every upgrade and repair that I have made to my house, from everything to fixing the washer to repairing the roof. Doing this along with organizing warranties and insurance document ensures that you have all the necessary paperwork readily available in case of emergencies, financial transactions, or any other situations that may require documentation related to your home.
Cleaning your gutters before and after the rainy season is crucial (yes, it rains in LA). When debris such as leaves, twigs, and dirt accumulate in the gutter, it can block the flow of rainwater, leading to water overflow and potential damage to your roof and foundation. Clogged gutters can become a breeding ground for mosquitoes and other pests, posing health risks. A clean gutter ensures proper drainage, preventing water from seeping into your home's interior and causing water damage. Go the extra mile to prevent these things from happening so I can’t say, “told you so!”
Checking your HVAC is important because it helps prevent potential water damage and costly repairs. Neglecting to regularly inspect and clean the line can lead to clogs and blockages, causing water backups that can overflow and damage your home. By maintaining this simple task, you can ensure that your HVAC system operates efficiently and effectively, prolonging its lifespan and minimizing the risk of water-related issues. I recommend getting it serviced once before the summer months and once before winter, so that your system doesn’t malfunction when you need it the most.
Regularly cleaning out your dryer vent is crucial for multiple reasons. Firstly, it helps prevent the buildup of lint, which can be highly flammable and pose a serious fire hazard. Secondly, a clean dryer vent promotes better airflow, reducing drying time and energy consumption. Lastly, a well-maintained vent prevents excessive heat and moisture from accumulating, prolonging the lifespan of your dryer and reducing the chances of mold and mildew growth.