Protect Your Investment and Prevent Costly Repairs by Undertaking a Few Simple Maintenance Items on Your Property Every Spring.

  Here are a Few Ideas to Get You Started:

KITCHEN: 

SINK:
Check that taps and plumbing under sink are not leaking, and caulk if needed.

DISHWASHER:                                                                                                                       Check for signs of any leaks. Clean the filter, and run a cycle with 2 cups of vinegar.

REFRIDGERATOR:                                                                                                            To keep the compressor functioning properly, I recommend that you dust the fridge coils. Turn off power at circuit breaker or fuse box. Coils are usually at the bottom of the refrigerator, under the grill. Clean coils with the crevice attachment of a vacuum or a specialty refrigerator-coil brush, available at hardware stores.

RANGEHOOD:                                                                                                                   Clean the filter and check that fan is working.

RESEAL GROUT LINES ON FLOORING AND BACKSPLASHES:

The cement-based material between wall, floor, and countertop tiles is extremely porous and stains easily. Protect it with a penetrating grout sealer; it’s best to apply it with a small foam brush.

ENSURE FIRE SAFETY DEVICES ARE WORKING:

Change batteries in smoke detectors, and make sure they are free of dust. Also check that Carbon Monoxide detectors are functioning.

INSPECT LIGHT FIXTURES:

Check for damaged wires and connections. Replace burned out bulbs in areas that are hard to reach.

INSPECT WINDOWS AND SCREENS:

Ensure that windows can open and close properly. Check for weather damage. Repair any damaged screens to ensure that insects and other pests cannot enter the property.

CLEAN THE CLOTHES DRYER:

Remove the lint trap, and vacuum out loose lint inside the dryer. Inspect the ventilation exhaust and clean out if necessary. This will not only help the dryer run better, but it will also prevent a fire.

OPEN AND TEST OUTSIDE WATER SUPPLIES.  

Check that the pipes have not cracked over the winter.

CHECK GUTTERS AND DOWNSPOUTS:

Clean leaves out of gutters and make sure downspouts are attached and extended away from the foundation.

CHECK ATTIC:

Check for signs of leaks, mildew, or condensation.

SUMP PUMP:

Test sump pump to make sure it removes water from the hole and discharges water away from the base of the house.

BASEMENT:

Check for signs of leaks, cracks, movement, rot, or mildew. Consider a dehumidifier. Clean the dehumidifier and start operation as needed.

CHANGE FURNACE FILTERS.

BATHROOMS:

Clean ceiling fans and grills. Check floor grout, tub and counters. Caulk or repair as necessary. Check that taps and the plumbing under sinks are not leaking.

AIR CONDITIONING: 

Check that the unit is still level and clean and has proper clearance. Remove any trees, debris, or trash that obstructs the unit. I also recommend professional servicing for the unit. Try running the unit to ensure it is working (only if the outside temperature is at least 15 degrees Celsius!)

EXTERIOR GRADING OF THE PROPERTY GROUNDS:

Ensure that soil and gardens are draining away from the foundation to prevent basement leaks.

ROOF:   

Look for signs of curling or missing shingles.

I hope you find this helpful. Feel free to send me any suggestions that you have to add to this checklist!

At Your Service!    Christie Stefan, Realtor.