Home Decorating Ideas

In most cases your home is the single largest investment you have. Therefore it is very important to implement a regular inspection program to help prevent major repairs and to protect your home’s value.

But where to begin? That is where most of us get stuck. Below is a sample checklist for you to use to get started. Get in the habit of scheduling time on your calendar to take care of these items at the change of the seasons. The more organized proactive work you do now means the less costly and stressful reactive problems to deal with later.

Fall/Winter Maintenance:

• Professionally clean chimney and flue
• Clean gutters and downspouts, seal leak in gutter seams
• Remove window air conditioners
• Inspect sump pump
• Remove wasp nests, inspect for termites and wood rot
• Remove window and door screens – clean before storing
• Check storm windows – clean and repair before installing
• Drain and turn off outside faucets if in region with very cold winters
• Check insulation and replace if necessary
• Clean humidifier
• Clean fireplace
• Service heating and cooling systems
• Repair any plumbing leaks
• Oil door locks – this is especially important in regions with very cold winters
• Change batteries in smoke, fire, and carbon monoxide detectors

This article was written by Carla Boissonault, a professional organizer and owner of Organized by Design of New Jersey.

Bookmark to: