Most major repairs can be prevented if homeowners conduct an inspection of their home each spring. Catching potential problems will save the homeowner money as well as catch any unexpected surprises. So grab a pencil and start checking off your list.

Exterior Inspection:

Driveway:

Check for cracks that might have formed over the winter

Foundation:

Is it cracked or crumbling?

Are there any water stains or signs of dampness?

Do you notice any moss or mildew growth?

Structure:

Is the siding splitting or otherwise coming loose?

Are there any bricks missing?

Does the porch or door sill appear straight?

Check decks and railings for any damaged wood.

Roof:

Do you see any missing shingles?

Are any of the edges of the shingles lifted?

Chimney:

Does the chimney look straight?

Can you see any large cracks or missing mortar between the bricks?

Do you see any missing bricks or stones?

Check any metal flashing near your chimney for corrosion?

Do you have a chimney screen on top to prevent birds and rodents from entering your home?

Gutters and Downspouts:

Are the gutters still in place and free from debris?

Are the downspouts properly placed so run-off is angled away from the house?

Windows & Doors (also part of your interior check):

Do they open smoothly with no binding? Sliding doors should open and close smoothly.

Is all the hardware in working order?

Is there any rotting or missing trim?

Is the weather stripping intact?

Check for missing or broken glass.

Are the screens free from tears?

Garage:

Check the concrete floor for any major cracks.

Does the garage door opener work and does the door open and close smoothly?

If the garage is attached does the door to the house close tightly and securely?

Interior Inspection

Basement:

Check for large cracks.

There should be no standing water, or water on walls, especially corners.

Check for sagging floor joists.

Check age of water heater; there should be no water around water heater.

Plumbing:

Check that all plumbing fixtures work (drains are clear, no dripping faucets, etc.)

Check the tile in showers for cracks and gaps.

Heating & Air Conditioning:

Check that the flues and vents are open.

The system should be clean and free of debris.

Turn thermostat to lowest setting and check cooling.

Check your furnace filter–if it’s dirty, either clean or replace it.

Turn on ceiling fans to make sure they don’t wobble. Make sure the fan blades are turning clockwise (as you look up at it), they turn the opposite way for winter.

Ventilation:

Check all vents to make sure there are no obstructions inside or outside (kitchen oven vent, bathroom vent and dryer vent)

Fireplace:

Make sure the damper and vents open freely.

Look for any obstructions in the flue.

Check for any cracks or loose bricks in fire box.

You may want the chimney cleaned by a professional.

Kitchen:

Check under the sink for any moisture.

Check that cupboard doors and drawer open and close smoothly

Once you have completed your checklist you can decide what projects you want to undertake and what projects you might need a professional to handle for you. For most of us, our home is the largest investment we will make. It is important to maintain that investment with good maintenance and smart choices.

By: Rachel Hauser