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Time of Year: Fall
1) Foundation and Basement
Inspect for signs of termite infestation
Check grading to assure that water will drain away from the foundation
Check basement or crawl space for dampness and/or leakage following wet weather
2) Grounds and Yard
Drain outside water lines and hoses
Clean area wells, window wells, and storm drains
Check safety and reverse mechanism on electric garage door operators, adjust if needed
3) Roofs
Check vent louvers, and chimney caps and housings for bird nests, etc.
Clean gutters and downspouts
Trim back tree limbs near or overhanging the roof
Sweep debris from flat or low sloped roofs
Evaluate roof for future replacement
Check antenna wires and supports
4) Exterior Walls
Remove vines growing on exterior walls and siding
All bushes should be trimmed away from building
Evaluate all exposed wood exterior areas; apply sealants / paint or replace as needed.
5) Electrical System
Check condition of lamp cords, extension cords, and plugs. Replace at first sign of wear or damage
Check exposed and overhead wiring for damage and missing insulation. Replace or repair as needed
Test ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCI’s)
6) Heating and Cooling
Clean dirt and dust from around furnace
Remove window air conditioners for winter
Have heating and cooling system checked by a qualified service person
Service Humidifier and/or dehumidifier
7) Plumbing
Check water heater.
Check flush valves, faucets, hose bibs, and supply and drainage piping, including those in basement and/or crawl space
Drain exterior water lines
8) Doors and Windows
Check weather-stripping for damage and tightness of fit
Check and lubricate window hardware
9) Interior Surfaces
Check all joints in ceramic tile, laminated plastics, and similar surfaces
Check grouting around tubs, showers, and sinks
10) Fireplaces
Have all chimneys swept clean and inspect for safety.
Time of Year: Spring
Foundation and Basement
Inspect for signs of termite infestation
Check grading to assure that water will drain away from the foundation
Check basement or crawl space for dampness and/or leakage following wet weather
Grounds and Yard
Clean area wells, window wells, and storm drains
Check driveway and sidewalks for cracks, yard for settlement and soil erosion
Check safety and reverse mechanism on electric garage door operators, adjust if needed
Roofs
Check vent louvers, and chimney caps and housings for bird nests, etc.
Check for damaged or loose shingles, blistering roofing
Check underside of roof where accessible for water stains or damage
Check for damaged flashing
Check for damaged gutters, downspouts, hangers, strainers, and rust
Check fascias and soffits for paint failure and decay
Check masonry chimneys
Clean gutters and downspouts
Sweep debris from flat or low sloped roofs
Evaluate roof for future replacement
Check antenna but wires and supports
Exterior Walls
Check masonry for cracks and loose joints
Check paint surfaces for paint failure
Check siding and trim for damage and decay
Electrical System
Check condition of lamp cords, extension cords, and plugs. Replace at first sign of wear or damage
Check exposed and overhead wiring for damage and missing insulation. Replace or repair as needed
Test ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCI’s)
Heating and Cooling
Clean dirt and dust from around furnace
Have heating and cooling system checked by a qualified service person (Once a year; now or during Fall time)
Service Humidifier and/or dehumidifier
Clean or change air filters (every 1-2 months)
Plumbing
Check water heater.
Check flush valves, faucets, hose bibs, and supply and drainage piping, including those in basement and/or crawl space
Turn on exterior water lines
Check septic tank (consult septic specialist)
Doors and Windows
Check weather-stripping for damage and tightness of fit
Check door, windows, and trim for finish failure
Check glazed openings for loose putty
Check for broken glass and damaged screens
Check caulking at doors and windows
Check and lubricate window hardware
Interior Surfaces
Check all joints in ceramic tile, laminated plastics, and similar surfaces
Check grouting around tubs, showers, and sinks
Look for more helpful information from Total Home Inspections during the coming year
If you have any questions, would like to set up an inspection, or know someone who needs an inspection, please call.
Total Home Inspections Phone: 215-542-4991 Fax: 215-643-2946
Phil Rubenstein (Certified Inspector) totalhomeinspec@aol.com www.totalhomeinspec.com
Disclaimers: 1) This is not to be considered a complete Spring and Annual Seasonal Checklist. It’s intent is to provide you a basic idea as to the some of the areas around your home which require upkeep/maintenance during this particular season and annual. More complete information is available online, libraries, bookstores, hardware stores, etc. 2) The material provided by Total Home Inspections is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice by appropriate specialists. You should promptly seek such assistance if you have any concern about your family's health or safety, or the soundness of your home. Total Home Inspections, nor it’s authors, nor any persons acting on behalf of Total Home Inspections makes any warranty expressed or implied with respect to the use of any information provided. No portion of this information may be reproduced in any fashion without including this disclaimer, as well as providing Total Home Inspections contact information.
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