When you purchased your home you most likely had a home inspection done by a licensed home inspector. Hopefully you completed the small items and listened to the ideas the inspector pointed out (small items that the sellers didn't fix). It's important that you don't stop there, your home will need attention throughout the years you live there. By completing your own annual home inspection you can save money and prevent problems.
The National Association of Realtors has provided some great tips on what to look for:
- Use binoculars to check out high walls, chimney, and the roof. There shouldn't be any discoloration, cracks, uneven spots, wood rot or broken roof tiles.
- Make sure gutters and downspouts are clear of debris and looked for cracked or peeling paint.
- Keep an eye on the grade around the foundation (popular spot for termites too), check the driveway and garage for loose or cracked asphalt.
- Examine the caulk and other seals around windows.
- Make sure there are not any leaks in your landscaping watering system (this should be checked more than once a year).
- Inside check the walls and ceilings for anything that suggest mildew, mold or moisture, including the inside of closets.
- Inspect kitchen backsplashes and seals for any open spaces that may let moisture in.
- Check tub and shower surrounds for entry points for water, caulk any areas.
- Turn on hot and cold water at every faucet to look for leaks, make sure to look under the sink for any sign of leaks.
- Turn on the heating and cooling system and let run for a few minutes. Listen for any irregular sounds and check for loose pipes.
- Inspect the water heater to ensure there are no loose pipes.
Especially in Arizona where we give our A/C units quite the workout during the summer, it's best to have a pre-summer annual check up by an A/C company. You should also get a pre-winter check up for your heating system. If you have a home warranty plan they may have a program for this. It is also recommended to have your water heater flushed to remove the sediment that can build up.
If any part of your home looks like it could use some repair call the appropriate contractor to come out and give you an opinion and/or a quote. It's usually best to catch things early, most things just get worse with time. If you live in Phoenix's West Valley and need a recommendation for a contractor contact Cinda at 623-252-9350. Or by email at cinda@wvhometeam.com.
