Whether you’re renovating a house or are happily occupying a property, you must take the time to check that everything is in good condition and your home is cared for. It’s very easy to miss warning signs of damage to your property or ignore issues that appear to be minor, but small issues can quickly develop into big problems. Sometimes, it’s hard to catch these problems because they’re in hard-to-see areas or places that aren’t in the main living areas of your home. However, make sure you’re checking these six areas of your property to keep it in good condition and keep you and your family safe.
Windows
Poor-quality or damaged windows can not only lead to problems with damp and rot but also pose a risk to the security of your property. If locks are weak and rusted or windows panes are loose, this can make it easier for potential intruders to break into your home. Furthermore, problems with damp and rot can cause health issues, with some forms of mold being extremely harmful. It can also spread into other parts of the property surrounding the property like the brickwork, requiring more costly and time-consuming repairs. If you can see condensation between the glass panes, the locks feel loose, or if the window frame appears to be coming away from the wall at all, these are all signs it could be time to have your windows replaced. Choose double glazing to make sure your home is kept warm and you’re not losing money on high energy bills.
Roof
The roof is one of the areas of your home that is hardest to keep an eye on and this is why it’s not always easy to identify when there is an issue. If you can access an attic space in your home, this is one of the most effective ways to check on the state of your roof. If you notice any signs of light coming through from the outside, this is a red flag and a signifier that there are holes that need fixing. Additionally, stepping outside of your home and moving to a position where you can get a good view of your roof is another way to check it. If it appears to be dipping or bowing anyway, this could be a problem and it’s time to get a professional roofer to inspect it for you. Wonky chimneys, damp, or leaks are all indicators there is damage to your roof.
Plumbing
Most of your property’s plumbing will be hard to see, as it travels through walls and other hidden spaces. However, low water pressure water-marks and leaks will be a good way to know if it requires your attention. A burst pipe will cause a lot of damage and quickly, and under those circumstances, an emergency plumber should be contacted immediately. Old pipes may need to be replaced, and it’s certainly worth doing this if you are renovating a property to save the hassle of having to do it again later, even if they do seem in relatively good condition at the time of renovations.
Basement/Attic
It’s always worth inspecting both your basement and attic every couple of months to make sure no issues have developed, particularly if you’re only using them for storage. With such little time spent in these areas, it’s easy to miss damaged pipes, electrics, or even mold that has begun to grow. They’re also areas of the home where pests are most likely to nest, as it’s quiet and undisturbed, with plenty of boxes and other clutter to create a cozy home for them. Instead of risking these potential problems getting out of control, it’s a good idea to do a cursory check two to four times a year to keep on top of things.
Electrics and Gas
Have a carbon monoxide detector installed in your home to avoid accidental death or illness from gas leaks. They happen rarely, but it could be fatal if you don’t have something to signal the issue, as you might not always pick up on the smell, especially when sleeping. Faulty electrics can pose serious health and safety hazards, too, such as fires or severe electric shock. If you notice that the power is cutting out often, or a certain electrical outlet is sparking/short-circuiting appliances, then contact an electrician to check if there is a bigger problem.
Keeping your property in good condition is important not only for the structure of the house but also for your health. It can be difficult to notice issues in the early stages, but regular checks can help you to catch things sooner rather than later.