Q. Spring is just around the corner; What routine maintenance tips can BBB offer homeowners?
A. The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the housing industry. This created a demand for more space for the home and school offices, as well as larger terraces to relax in. These factors, along with low mortgage rates, have resulted in record home sales.
As an established homeowner or if you've recently bought a new home, you've no doubt found that all of that extra space requires care and maintenance. BBB recommends the following tips so you can take care of your home, hire contractors, and avoid fraud.
Perform regular house maintenance. The Department of Housing and Urban Development (www.hud.com) reminds homeowners that regular home maintenance reduces allergens, prevents disease and reduces injuries from accidents. It also helps you identify needed repairs before they get too serious and save time and money in the long run. Many homeowners use seasonal checklists to keep track of their home's upkeep year round. Another aspect of house maintenance is cleaning your home. If you need help, consider hiring a cleaning service.
Keep your lawn clean. A well-kept lawn not only adds to the attractiveness of your home, but also makes it a great place to spend time outdoors with your family. Lawn care also prevents harmful pests such as snakes and mice from bringing your home too close to your home. Lawn maintenance generally falls into three main categories: landscaping, lawn maintenance, and sprinkler or irrigation systems. If you need help in one or more of these categories, consider hiring a lawn care professional.
Examine your roof. A leaky roof can cause a variety of problems. It is therefore advisable to check your roof several times a year, especially after extreme weather conditions. Make sure no tiles, leaks, or other damage are missing. You can prevent damage by removing low or dead branches from your roof and removing debris. If at any time you discover that repairs are needed, roofers can help you repair or replace your roof.
Keep your air ducts clean. As a rule of thumb, you should clean your home's air ducts every three to five years. However, if you find mold, bugs, or large amounts of dust clogging the air vents, a qualified HVAC technician should clean your air ducts as soon as possible. Clean air ducts improve the efficiency of your heating and air conditioning system and extend their service life. It can even cut the cost of your electricity bill!
Beware of installation problems. Check out the plumbing and fittings as you do regular house maintenance to make sure there are no leaks. Ask your friends and neighbors to recommend a reputable plumber in the area and have their number handy in an emergency.
Consider installing an alarm system. An alarm system can help you feel more secure and protect your valuables while you are away. Choose a home security system from a credible and licensed company in your area and browse before registering.
Add a new coat of paint. High-quality exterior paint protects your home from insects and the weather. High quality interior paints can protect your home from moisture and add value. Both are important parts of regular house maintenance that should be checked every few years. If painting is not your forte, consider hiring a professional painter who is equipped with the tools, skills, and safety equipment necessary to work effectively.
Get professional help with the renovation. If you don't have a construction education, it's best to leave large renovation projects to the professionals. Plan your project and budget in advance. Then find a builder or remodel contractor who specializes in the type of remodeling you need.
Hire reliable contractors. Regardless of the type of outside help you need, it is important to use a reputable contractor. Follow BBB's advice on hiring a contractor at www.bbb.org to ensure your project is in good hands.
Find the best roofers, painters, plumbers, lawn care specialists, and security companies in the field at www.BBB.org/Chattanooga.
Beware of home improvement fraud. Home improvement fraud abounds. So watch out for red flags like high pressure sales tactics, cash-only offers, and non-signing contractors. Always check references and ask for recommendations before agreeing to hire a contractor. To avoid fraud, the Federal Trade Commission www.consumer.ftc.gov recommends doing several estimates, asking questions, and getting a written contract before hiring.
Jim Winsett is President of the Better Business Bureau in Chattanooga.
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