Maintenance Tips Every First-Time Homeowner Should Know

If you recently purchased your first home, congratulations on your accomplishment. You have no doubt realized that all that extra space comes with extra maintenance. And if you are used to renting, you now face tasks your landlord may have previously handled.
Home maintenance can be daunting, but it is important. Regular upkeep keeps your home clean and comfortable. It can extend the life of your home, help prevent illness and accidents, and save you time and money.
Your first year in your new home is a good opportunity to learn what youcan handle yourself and what jobs may require professional help. If you do need to hire someone, look them up at BBB.org to get an idea of their track record and how they have treated past customers.

What are some maintenance tips for first-time homeowners?

• Identify seasonal tasks. Each season brings its own maintenance needs to prepare for changing weather. For example, it is wise to schedule an HVAC tune-up before summer and winter so you do not end up with a broken furnace or air conditioner during the most extreme temperatures of the year. BBB’s checklist can help you keep track of seasonal tasks.
• Keep your lawn and trees tidy. A well-kept lawn improves curb appeal and creates a more enjoyable place to spend time outside with your family. Lawn care also helps keep harmful pests, such as snakes and mice, from settling too close to your home. Early to mid-spring is a good time to begin lawn and garden planning, or to hire a professional if needed.
• Inspect your home’s exterior. Check your roof, gutters and exterior surfaces several times a year, especially after severe weather. Make sure there are no
  missing shingles, leaks or other damage. You can help prevent problems by clearing dead or low-hanging branches away from the roof and removing debris.
• Maintain airflow and HVAC systems. As a general rule, plan to have your
  home’s air ducts cleaned every three to five years. However, if you notice mold,
  vermin or heavy dust buildup in the vents, contact a trained HVAC technician
  sooner. It is also a good idea to get an HVAC tune-up each spring and fall. At the same time, consider changing air filters, cleaning refrigerator coils and clearing the dryer vent. These tasks improve energy efficiency and help keep systems in good condition.
• Watch for drips and leaks. Even a small dripping faucet can increase your
  water bill. Leaks can also point to larger issues that may require a plumber’s help.
• Check windows and doors for drafts. Gaps that let in cold air can make it harder for your furnace to keep up during winter. You may be able to seal small gaps
  with weather stripping, and some window companies can make custom inserts.
• Know when to do it yourself and when to hire help. Some home maintenance tasks are simple do-it-yourself projects, while others are best left to a professional. When deciding whether to tackle a job yourself or call in a pro, consider your skill level, equipment, safety risks and costs. If you need to hire someone, check BBB.org to review complaints, customer feedback and BBB accreditation.
• Beware of home improvement scams. BBB frequently receives reports about home improvement scams, often involving companies that take payment and leave without finishing the job. Watch for red flags such as high-pressure sales tactics, cash-only deals, contractors who refuse to sign a contract, and companies that demand full payment up front. To protect yourself, get estimates from multiple companies, ask questions until you feel comfortable, and put all job
  details in a written contract.
  Don O’Brien is the regional director for the Quincy Better Business Bureau. He
  can be reached at [email protected]