Winter is coming! Handy checklist for preparing your home!

California’s temperate climate allows homeowners to become complacent about home maintenance because seasonal changes are almost imperceptible.  However, there are some prudent measures that homeowners should take to protect their homes.

Here are our suggestions for Fall Home Maintenance:

1. Clean your rain gutters to make sure that water can drain freely.  If your downspouts are not connected to a below-grade drainage system, this is a good time to install temporary extensions for the season being careful to avoid trip hazards.  Fluctuations of moisture to the soil create pressure on the foundation, so controlling drainage is an important part of good home maintenance.  It’s also a good idea to inspect your gutters to make sure that they have not rusted through and that the seams are caulked.
2. Clean or change your furnace filter so that your furnace is able to operate at maximum efficiency.  Vacuum the registers and cold air returns to minimize dust particles in your home.
3. Walk around your home and check to make sure your attic and foundation vents are secure and that any openings around hoses/cords are properly sealed. Unsealed openings provide easy access for rodents who are unwelcome roommates!
4. While you are walking around your home, check the condition of the paint.  Exposed wood can lead to future pest control issues.
5. Check your smoke detector batteries.  There are two types of smoke detectors.  The ionization models appear to be preferred for rooms where a fire may occur due to flames, while photoelectric models appear to be better for rooms where a fire may occur due to smoldering materials that burn more slowly.  As you are changing your batteries you may wish to consider the type of smoke detector that is best suited for the particular location.  Keep in mind current state requirements implemented in July 2015:
   • All old smoke detectors that are solely powered by batteries must be replaced with those that contain a sealed battery that is rated to last 10 years.
   • All smoke alarms powered by 120 VAC or battery must have a label showing the date of installation and manufacture.
   • Please note:  The location of smoke detectors is an important consideration.  California’s Health and Safety Code requires that there be a centrally located smoke detector outside of each sleeping area.  Additionally, for homes that have been remodeled since August 14, 1992, where the cost of the remodeling exceeds $1,000 and for which a permit is required, a smoke detector is required in each bedroom and centrally located in a hallway outside the bedroom.
6. Have you installed a carbon monoxide detector?  Effective July 1, 2011, the California Health and Safety Code required that a carbon monoxide detector is installed in all single-family residences that have fossil fuel burning furnaces, appliances or a fireplace, or homes that have an attached garage.
7. Check plumbing connections under all the sinks in your home.  This past year we have noted that this is a common exception coming up in inspection reports.  Unattended leaks can cause damage, sometimes leading to mold infestation, so best to be proactive.
8. Don’t forget to pay your property taxes!  The first installment is due on November 1st and becomes delinquent if not postmarked prior to 5:00 p.m. on December 10th.  A stiff penalty of 10% of the payment is imposed for late payment!  Some new homeowners may not have received a bill, but the County does not consider this an excuse for non-payment.  The amount due is posted on their website.
9. Check on your emergency preparedness plan and supplies.  (See earlier blog: Do you have an earthquake preparedness plan?) One item on that list is to get to know your neighbors, and what a great time of year to do that as the Thanksgiving holiday approaches!

Please do not hesitate to contact us if you would like to be referred to our trusted vendors who can help you with your home maintenance items.  We love hearing from you!