Maintenance and Improvements

Home Maintenance Check List

The following is a list of suggested preventative maintenance checks to help you keep your home in good condition. The list is intended to provide general guidelines for home maintenance. You should add to or modify the list, as necessary, to accommodate conditions present in your home.

Upon Taking Ownership

• Change the locks on all exterior entrances.
• Check that all windows and doors are secure. Improve window hardware as necessary. Security rods can be added to sling windows and doors. Consider purchasing a security system
• Install smoke detectors on each level of the home. There should be a smoke detector outside all sleeping areas. Replace batteries on any existing smoke detectors and test them. Make a note to replace batteries again in one year.
• Create a plan of action for evacuating the house in the event of a fire. Ensure that there is an operable window or door in every room of the house. Consult with the Palo Alto Fire Department regarding safety issues and what to do in the event of a fire.
• Examine the home for trip hazards. Loose or torn carpeting and flooring should be repaired.
• Investigate the location of the main shut-offs for the plumbing, heating, and electrical systems.

Regular Maintenance

Every Month:

• Check that fire extinguisher(s) are fully charged. Re-charge if necessary.
• Examine heating/cooling air filters and replace or clean as necessary.
• Inspect and clean humidifiers and electronic air cleaners.
• Carefully inspect the condition of shower enclosures. Repair or replace deteriorated grout and caulk. Ensure that water is not escaping the enclosure during showering. Check below all plumbing fixtures for evidence of leakage.
• Repair or replace leaking faucets or showerheads.
• Secure loose toilets. Repair troublesome flush mechanisms.

Spring and Fall:

• Look in attic (if accessible) to ensure that roof vents are not obstructed. Check for evidence of leakage, condensation or vermin activity. Level out insulation if needed.
• Survey the basement and/or crawl space walls for evidence of moisture seepage.
• Clean windows and test their operation. Improve caulking and weather-stripping as necessary. Watch for evidence of rot in wood window frames. Paint and repair windowsills and frames as necessary.
• Test all ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) devices.
• Test the Temperature and Pressure Relief (TPR) Valve on water heaters.
• Inspect for evidence of wood boring insect activity.
• Test the overhead garage door opener to ensure that the auto-reverse mechanism is responding properly. Clean and lubricate hinges, rollers, and tracks on overhead doors.
• Replace or clean exhaust hood filters.
• Clean, inspect and/or service all appliances as per the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Annually:

• Replace all smoke detector batteries.
• Have the heating, cooling, and water heater systems cleaned and serviced.
• Have chimneys inspected and cleaned. Ensure that rain caps and vermin screens are secure.
• Examine the electrical panels, wiring and electrical components for evidence of overheating. Ensure that all components are secure. Flip the breakers on and off to ensure that they are not sticky.

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