Home Essentials Maintenance Checklist

Oftentimes, the best preparation for natural disasters or property damage is having a “game plan” in advance, and appropriate items on-hand or readily available in case the unthinkable occurs. Whether you experience a flooded basement, burst pipe, kitchen or grease fire, roof damage from a blizzard, excessive mold, or more, SERVPRO^® is Here to Help^® outline what types of items you might want to have available, inspections to conduct, and ultimately help you build a checklist of home essentials in case of property damage.

Segments of a Home Essentials Maintenance Checklist

Ultimately, what individuals may include in a home essentials maintenance checklist can vary, but there are certain recommended segments, according to our very own SERVPRO of North Central Mesa:

• Water Leak Checks
• Gutters and Downspouts
• Heating and Cooling Systems
• Roof Inspection
• Window and Door Seals
• Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
• Electrical System Safety
• Appliance Maintenance
• Drainage and Landscaping
• Emergency Preparedness.

We go into further detail on each of these segments below.

Look for Water Leaks

When it comes to checking for water leaks, you might consider inspecting all plumbing for signs of leaks (this includes checking under sinks and around toilets). Also, look for damp spots on walls and ceilings. If needed, you may need to hire a plumber to inspect these areas.

Evaluate Gutters and Downspouts

Not only should gutters and downspouts be checked regularly, but they should be cleaned regularly, too. If you spot blockages, remove them. At the end of the day, downspouts should direct water away from your home or property’s foundation.

Inspect Heating and Cooling Systems

According to Energy Star, filters should be replaced every three months, at minimum, although you are always encouraged to clean and check them on a more regular basis. This includes the filters in heating and cooling systems.

You should also try listening for any unusual noises, and/or pay attention to any odd odors emanating from your HVAC system. This might be a sign they need attention. Ultimately, your HVAC system should be inspected annually, as Energy Star indicates.

Perform a Roof Inspection

This part of the home essentials maintenance checklist may involve looking for signs of leaks or water damage on the roof. Also, consider checking for damaged, loose, and/or missing shingles, with the goal of helping to ensure debris is regularly cleared from your roof.

For more information, SERVPRO offers robust roof tarping and board-up services year-round.

Check Window and Door Seals

Caulking around windows and doors should be inspected. Moreover, check to make sure doors and windows close and seal properly. If weather stripping is worn, replace it (making sure to check it regularly).

Inspect Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

As the Missouri Department of Public Safety states, smoke and carbon monoxide detectors should be tested monthly. Additionally, batteries should be replaced at least once a year (make sure batteries are not past their expiration date).

For more information, review our companion articles about smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors.

Verify Electrical System Safety

This part of the checklist may involve checking for frayed or damaged wires. Try to avoid overloading electrical outlets, and make sure outlets and switches are in proper working order.

If needed, contact an electrician to safely perform these inspections.

Perform Appliance Maintenance

Dryer vents should be inspected and cleaned. Additionally, clean your refrigerator coils, and check the seals on refrigerators and ovens.

Assess Drainage and Landscaping

You should also make sure drainage around the home is properly functioning. Furthermore, broken sprinkler heads should be checked and repaired.

With regards to landscaping, shrubs and trees should be properly trimmed and kept a safe distance from the property, if possible (to help mitigate fire hazards).

Prepare for Emergencies

The final part of the home essentials maintenance checklist may involve the creation of a SERVPRO Emergency Ready Plan. These valuable plans can help you, loved ones, employees, and more establish proper evacuation routes, determine methods of communication during emergencies, locate meet-up locations if your party is split up, and more.

Beyond this, when it comes to emergency preparation, it is important to know where water shutoff valves are located. You should also keep an up-to-date emergency supply kit in an easily accessible area. Lastly, make sure you have a plan for power outages (such as knowing where flashlights and generators are located).

For 24-Hour Emergency Cleanup and Restoration Services, Call SERVPRO

No matter the type of property damage you sustain—whether your business catches on fire, you need deodorization services, your ceilings, walls, and floors need scrubbed, or more—and no matter the size, SERVPRO technicians are available around the clock. Established in 1967, SERVPRO is the #1 choice in fire and water cleanup and restoration* for a reason.

Using proprietary tools and elite equipment, SERVPRO technicians undergo training and continuing education to help ensure they provide top-tier cleanup, restoration, and construction services. We understand that when property damage occurs, time is of the essence. With 2270 SERVPRO locations in the United States and Canada, rest assured there is a franchise near you, here to help return your property to pre-loss condition, “Like it never even happened.” If you experience property damage on a holiday, weekend, or in the middle of the night, look no further than SERVPRO.

Please visit our FAQ and glossary to learn more about SERVPRO and the cleanup and restoration industry.