Home Buyer Tips
Check the attic in cold weather for signs of condensation.
If the underside of the roof sheeting is darkened or rust stains
or "mustaches" are present around the nails, there may be a problem.
In cold weather drops of water or even ice hanging from each nail,
or frost on the underside of the sheeting can be seen.
Install a carbon Monoxide detector if you have a gas fueled
heating system or hot water heater. CO kills someone in every
state every year.
Once a Month
Change the filters once a month. Clean filters protect the
equipment, help protect sinuses, and keep the house clean.
Check the smoke detector. There should be one on every floor
and some should be hard wired and some battery powered.
Check the GFCT outlets each month. The bathroom, exterior,
basement, garage, and kitchen outlets should be protected.
These outlets can save your life. Newer houses have more
complete coverage than older houses, but they are easy to add.
Once a year
Go into the crawl space at least once this year to check for
moisture problems, leaks, or failed ductwork. If you won't crawl
under the house, at least open the access door and look inside.
When you stick your face in the door the air should feel cool
and dry and smell fresh. If the air is damp, smells of mold
or mildew it is probably too wet in the crawl space. If you
feel warmth, you may have a fallen duct wasting heated air into
the crawl space.
Review the homeowner's insurance policy prior to renewal date.
Bring it up to date; be sure it matches replacement value. Ask
your agent about additional or umbrella coverage.
Inspect and clean before starting up the heating system or using
fireplace. Clogged or failed flues can be deadly, either by
leaking carbon monoxide or allowing a flue fire to spread into
the house.
Periodically
Clean those gutter. Gutters protect the house from rot and splash
damage.
|