Owning your own home is a big commitment. Not only will you need to keep up with the monthly mortgage payments, but you’ll also need to clean, declutter and maintain the property. As a result, it can demand a fair amount of your time and money.Of course, there are always jobs homeowners put off until another day, but this can lead to avoidable issues with your property. To prevent this from happening to you, take a look at the 10 things homeowners should do annually.
Clean Your Gutters
There is a reason your property has gutters, as they are designed to catch rainfall. If your gutters are blocked then the rain will not be able to go down the pipes, so will have no choice but to damage your property. Stop putting it off and clean your gutters at least once per year.
Review Your Property’s Price
It’s important to understand the current value of your home in the housing market, so you can make a decision whether to remain in your home, sell-up or opt for an equity release. Every year you should check how much has my house made me, so you can identify whether your home has risen or dropped in value.
Check Your Smoke Alarm
It’s crucial for the health and safety of you, your family, or your roommates to check your smoke alarm not once, but twice per year. You must check they are in working order so all residents would be immediately alerted if a fire occurred in the property.
Review Your Home for Mould
Mold spots can seriously damage your property and can pose a health risk. Don’t allow it to grow in your home by routinely checking for mould spots, especially where leaks could occur behind your walls or ceiling cavities. Also, don’t forget to pull out your washing machine and dishwasher to check for mould. If you don’t, you could be in for a nasty surprise. If you find that your home has a serious mold issue, you can start considering selling it, real estate investors like The Local House Buyers can be of help in this situation.
Check Your Insulation
Insulation ensures your house is warm throughout the year. While many homeowners dream of property insulation, it can also be a haven for uninvited guests, depending on your location. So, if possible, check nothing has made your cosy insulation their home.
Declutter Your Garage
Many homeowners are guilty of placing unused items into their garage, which can lead to a considerable amount of clutter over time. Set one day aside every year to go through all the items to identify what you want and need, and sell, donate, or throw away the rest.
Clean Your Chimney
If you’re fortunate enough to live in a property with a chimney, you should clean it at least once a year. The best time to clean your chimney is usually after summer, as that’s when birds will choose to find a cosy place to nest.
Review Your Exterior After Winter
Once winter has come to an end and spring has sprung, head out into your yard to review your exterior. For example, you should check your roof has not been damaged by snow or ice, and you should identify if your exterior paint has peeled away or your brickwork has chipped. Repair all damage immediately to return your home to its former glory.
Re-stain Your Decking
Spring and summer will also provide homeowners with an opportunity to power wash, re-seal, or re-stain their decking, so it looks fresh and new in your backyard. You should also check for loose boards and fix them as soon as possible.
Perform Tree and Branch Maintenance
While trees can create a calm, tranquil space in your garden, they also require upkeep each year. Unfortunately, falling trees or branches can seriously damage your property or garden. Each year, remove damaged or dead trees or limbs, and you may need to turn to a professional tree surgeon for assistance to avoid causing damage to the tree or your land.
