AmeriSpec Seasonal Maintenance Checklist
As a professional home inspection company, we understand the need for periodic home maintenance. We invite you to use the handy home inspection checklist to help keep your home in tiptop shape all year long.
Fall Seasonal Maintenance
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• Check foundation or slab edge concrete and masonry for cracking, heaving or deterioration.
• Check chimneys for loose, deteriorated brick or missing mortar.
• Check around home’s foundation and interior garage for signs of subterranean pest tubes.
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• Check for any evidence of water penetration in attic and ceilings after wet weather.
• Check flashing around all roof penetrations and sidewalls.
• Trim back all tree limbs and vegetation away from home’s siding and roof.
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• Check for loose or missing glazing putty.
• Check caulking for deterioration of all openings and joints between wood and masonry.
• Check weather-stripping for deterioration and damage.
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• Have the septic tank cleaned and inspected every two years.
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• Have furnace or heat pump inspected for winter season.
• Check fireplace for creosote buildup and possible cleaning.
Spring Seasonal Maintenance
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• Check foundation or slab edge concrete and masonry for cracking, heaving or deterioration.
• Check chimneys for loose, deteriorated brick or missing mortar.
• Check around home’s foundation and interior garage for signs of subterranean pest tubes.
• Check all wood surfaces for weathering and paint failure.
• Check all decks, patios, porches, stairs and railings for loose components and deterioration.
• Check foundation and attic vent screens for damage or blockage.
• Cut back and trim all vegetation from structures and fences.
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• Check for any missing, loose or damaged shingles.
• Check for open seams, blisters, debris, standing water or bald areas on flat roofs.
• Check for any evidence of water penetration in attic and ceilings after wet weather.
• Check flashings around all roof penetrations and sidewalls.
• Check antenna and satellite dish supports and flashings for possible leak sources.
• Check fascia and soffits for deterioration and damage.
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• Check water heater for leaks and corrosion. Flush water heater per manufacturer’s instructions.
• Check lawn sprinkler system for leaky valves and to ensure sprinkler heads are working and adjusted properly.
• Have well water tested by a certified lab for safety.
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• Check all tile joints for adequate grout.
• Check caulking around showers, bathtubs, sinks and toilet bases.
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• Have pool and spa filter/pump system checked for proper operation.
As Needed Maintenance
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• Check foundation or slab edge concrete and masonry for cracking, heaving or deterioration.
• Check around home’s foundation and interior garage for signs of subterranean pest tubes.
• Check grading for proper slope away from foundation walls.
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• Clean gutters, strainers, and downspouts. Make sure downspouts divert water away from foundation walls.
• Check for any evidence of water penetration in attic and ceilings after wet weather.
• Check flashing around all roof penetrations and sidewalls.
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• Check for broken glass, breached seals and damaged or missing screens
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• Check all interior and exterior and supply valves for leakage and/or corrosion.
• Check for evidence of leaks around sinks, showers, toilets and tubs.
• Know the location of the main water and fuel shut-off valves.
• Exercise all water gate valves to ensure leak-free proper operation.
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• Clean or change furnace filters every 6-weeks to two months of operation.
• Keep area clean around heating and cooling equipment.
• Have system serviced prior to heating and cooling seasons.
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• Periodically check exposed wiring and cable. Replace at first sign of wear and damage.
• Check all lamp cords, extension cords and plugs for damage and wear. Replace as necessary.
• Trip circuit breaker every six months and ground-fault interrupters/arc-fault interrupters monthly to ensure proper function.
• If fuses blow, circuit breakers trip frequently, or any appliance sparks or shorts out, contact a licensed electrician for repairs.
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• Check ceilings and surfaces around windows for evidence of moisture during wet weather.
• Check ceiling areas beneath bathrooms for leakage.
• Check all stairs and railings for any loose or damaged components.
• Test all smoke alarms per manufacturer’s instructions. (Consider changing the batteries on an annual basis.)
• Check all fire and safety systems regularly.