May is the perfect time to give your home some TLC. From outdoor projects to interior checks, we’ve made a checklist of tasks to tackle in May to not only keep your home in top condition but help avoid costly repairs. And yes, if you know us by now, they’re all pretty simple.
Outdoor Maintenance
- Inspect and clean gutters and downspouts to remove debris and ensure proper drainage.
- Check the exterior of your home for signs of damage, including cracks, peeling paint, or loose siding.
- Trim trees and shrubs away from your home’s exterior to prevent damage from branches during storms.
- Prepare your lawn and garden for summer by fertilizing, weeding, and mulching as needed.
- Test and clean outdoor light fixtures, including pathway lights and security lighting.
Interior Checks
- Replace or clean air filters in your HVAC system to keep that indoors so fresh and so clean.
- Test smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors and replace the batteries if needed.
- Inspect windows and doors for drafts or leaks, sealing any gaps with weatherstripping or caulking.
- Check for signs of moisture or water damage in basements, attics, and crawl spaces. Be sure to address any issues early on.
- Vacuum and clean air vents and ducts to improve air circulation and reduce allergens in your home.
Safety Precautions
- Review your home insurance policy to ensure it provides adequate coverage for your needs and make any necessary updates.
- Take inventory of your belongings and document any new purchases or valuables. This can be a lifesaver in the event you have to file a claim.
- Create or review your family’s emergency preparedness plan, including evacuation routes and designated meeting spots.
- Test your home security system and update passcodes or settings as needed.
- Inspect fire extinguishers to ensure they’re fully charged and in good working condition. You don’t want to find out your extinguisher is useless during the heat of things.
Seasonal Projects
- Prepare your outdoor living spaces for summer fun by cleaning and arranging patio furniture, grills, and outdoor decor.
- Service your lawn mower and other outdoor power equipment, including sharpening blades and changing oil and filters.
- Schedule a professional inspection and maintenance service for your air conditioning system to ensure it doesn’t kick the bucket during the upcoming summer months.
- Consider scheduling a roof inspection to identify any potential issues before the start of Hurricane Season.
Investing the time and effort into your homes maintenance now can save you from headaches and expenses down the road. And while we can’t help you figure out what that rattling noise is on your lawn mower, we can help you when it comes to your home insurance policy.