If you’re a first-time homebuyer, you might have a lot of questions about what essential maintenance concerns should be top of mind as you move into your new home. It’s important to stay proactive and organized to keep your home in great condition.
Here are 10 things to focus on these 10 things first to ensure your new home is fully prepared for you to settle in.
Still buying your first home? Read our guide for first-time homebuyers.
What Your Home Inspection Covered
You likely had an official home inspection done on your new home before you purchased it. Good news! Your inspector has already examined a few components of your new house to assess their condition and safety.
- Home Structural Elements: Your inspector assessed the foundation and house frame, checking for any potential structural issues.
- Exterior Features: The inspection covered elements like siding, driveway, fence, garage door, and walkways, noting any signs of wear and tear or damage.
- Roof: The inspector examined shingles, flashing, and skylights to evaluate the roof’s condition and identify any necessary repairs.
- Plumbing: Pipes, drains, and water heating equipment were checked, although some issues may require a separate inspection, especially for septic systems.
- Electrical Systems: The inspection included service panels, breakers, and fuses to determine if they are up to code and functioning properly.
- HVAC Systems: Your heating and cooling systems were reviewed for efficiency and safety.
While these components have been inspected, it’s important to note that this does not guarantee they are free from issues or fully up to code. The inspection report should outline any areas that need attention, allowing you to address them as needed.
If there were any issues noted on the home inspection report, take care to address those quickly after moving in to avoid any potential issues.
Here’s Where to Start
Now that you know which key areas you don’t need to worry about initially, let’s focus on the tasks that require prompt attention from a new homeowner.
1. Check Your Smoke Alarms
This is important whether you’re moving into a previously owned home or a new build (just in case). If the dates aren’t visible, replace the units as a precaution to ensure they are in good working order.
Smoke alarms need to be replaced every 10 years. Smoke alarms are a crucial safety feature in your home, and they need to be in good working order to protect you and your family in the event of an emergency.
- Why: Smoke alarms can save lives by providing early warnings of a fire.
- How: Most smoke alarms have a test/hush button you can easily push down to check if the electronic circuitry, horn, and battery are working. If you aren’t able to find one – check with your product manufacturer.
- When: The U.S. Fire Administration recommends testing smoke alarms at least once a month, but other sources suggest twice a year. Most alarms will also beep when their battery is low. When this happens, prioritize their quick replacement.
2. Test Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Carbon monoxide detectors are as crucial as smoke alarms. These detectors find this deadly, odorless gas and alert you to potential danger. While you’re checking your smoke alarms, take a few minutes to check your carbon monoxide detectors, as well.
- Why: Protects your family from carbon monoxide poisoning.
- How: Press and hold the test or test/silence button on the alarm. If detectors are over 10 years old, replace them.
- When: Do this immediately when you move in. Conduct tests monthly and replace batteries annually.
3. Clean Exterior Dryer Vents
Ensure your new dryer vents are clean to prevent lint buildup, which can be a fire hazard. A blocked vent can also reduce the efficiency of your dryer, leading to longer drying times and increased energy costs.
- Why: Reduces the risk of fire and improves dryer efficiency.
- How: Use a shop vac to clean the exterior vent and hose every few months.
- When: Perform this task when you move in, then annually every quarter for ongoing maintenance.
4. Change Out Your Locks
If your home has been previously owned, there’s really no way to know how many people have a key to your new house. That list continues to grow if there have been multiple previous owners. For this reason, it’s a good rule of thumb to re-key or replace all the locks on your home.
- Why: Ensures only you and trusted individuals have access to your home.
- How: Whether you re-key or replace all the locks, it’s best to contact a local locksmith to ensure this is done properly.
- When: Do this as soon as you move in.
Bonus Tip: You may want to consider changing the code on your garage door opener and make sure you locate all of the remotes for your garage, as well.
5. Check Your Furnace and HVAC Filters
The seller’s disclosure or the home inspection report may provide you with important information, such as the age of your HVAC system and furnace. However, it won’t reveal the last time routine maintenance tasks were completed.
You’ll want to change out your filters as soon as you move in.
- Why: It improves indoor air quality, saves on energy costs, and reduces wear and tear on the systems.
- How: Replace filters every 3 months, depending on usage. It’s recommended that professional servicing is scheduled annually.
- When: Change filters as needed and have the system serviced at least once a year.
6. Locate Shut-off Valves and Electrical Panel
Knowing where your shut-off valves and electrical panel are can be crucial during emergencies.
Even if these were pointed out during your home inspection, it’s a good idea for you and your family members to reacquaint yourselves with their exact locations once you move in.
A home inspector typically checks the electrical panel for safety, functionality, and compliance with local codes. This includes ensuring that the panel is in good condition, that there are no visible hazards, and that it meets basic safety standards.
While the inspector may note if the panel is labeled, they do not always verify the accuracy of the labels, so it’s also a good idea to ensure that the labels accurately correspond to the correct circuits.
- Why: Enables you and your family members to quickly turn off utilities in an emergency.
- How: Identify and mark the water shut-off valve, gas shut-off valve, and electrical panel locations. Ensure the panel has accurate labels.
- When: Do this as soon as you move in.
Consider installing an automatic water shut-off valve for added security. Some older gas shut-off valves require a wrench, so make sure you have the right tools on hand if needed.
7. Inspect Your Windows and Doors
Check around windows and doors for drafts that reduce energy efficiency and increase heating and cooling costs. Consider re-caulking certain areas to reinforce, as needed.
- Why: Prevents energy loss and improves your comfort.
- How: Inspect for gaps and seal with weather stripping or caulk as needed.
- When: Do this when you move in and then seasonally.
8. Check & Touch Up Exterior Paint
Keeping your exterior paint in good condition is crucial for both curb appeal and protection against the elements. Paint and stain serve as important protectants, preventing your gutters from rusting and wood siding from rotting. While the former homeowners may have touched this up before selling, it’s a good idea to still do a thorough inspection yourself.
- Why: Maintains curb appeal and protects against weather damage.
- How: Walk around your home and look for chipping, peeling, blistering, or cracking on every part, including the trim. Touching up could mean sanding, scraping, patching, priming, and repainting small areas. For widespread damage, consider repainting the entire area.
- When: Check your exterior paint when you move in, then annually every summer.
9. Drain Your Hot Water Heater
Properly maintain your water heater to ensure it operates efficiently and lasts longer. One essential task to start with is draining your hot water heater to remove sediment buildup that can accumulate over time.
While your home inspector may have checked the water heater for basic functionality, they likely didn’t perform a thorough drain and flush. Draining the heater when you move in ensures it starts off in optimal condition.
- Why: Over time, minerals and sediment can settle at the bottom of your water heater tank. This buildup can reduce the efficiency of your water heater, cause it to work harder, and ultimately lead to higher energy costs and potential damage.
- How: Follow the instructions in your water heater’s manual if you want to do it yourself. This typically involves turning off the power, attaching a hose to the drain valve, and allowing the tank to empty. However, if you’re unsure or uncomfortable performing this task, it may be a good time to hire a professional plumber to ensure it’s done correctly and safely.
- When: Perform this maintenance task annually to keep your water heater running efficiently and extend its lifespan.
10. Regularly Check Your Property
Once you’ve tackled the initial key maintenance tasks, it’s essential to establish a routine for ongoing inspections. Regularly walking around your home allows you to spot potential problems early, such as cracks, pest infestations, or damage to your siding or foundation.
- Why: Early detection of issues like cracks, exterior damage, pest holes, and gutter problems can prevent costly repairs.
- How: Take a walk around your property weekly and inspect the exterior. Look for any signs of damage or wear, including checking the condition of your siding, foundation, and gutters.
- When: Start this habit when you move in and continue it weekly to stay on top of maintenance.
Ongoing Home Maintenance Considerations
To ensure your new home remains in great condition, it’s essential to complete routine annual maintenance tasks. This proactive approach helps prevent costly repairs and keeps your home running smoothly.
Create a Maintenance Schedule
The best way to stay on top of home maintenance is to create a detailed schedule that you review and update annually.
Start by making a checklist of all the tasks mentioned above, such as checking smoke alarms, cleaning exterior dryer vents, and HVAC maintenance.
In addition to the initial tasks and ongoing maintenance tips provided here, there are several other important areas of your home that require regular attention. Keep these areas in check to maintain the overall condition and value of your property.
- Fireplace Inspection & Cleaning: If you have a fireplace, especially a wood-burning one, it’s essential to have it inspected and cleaned annually. This prevents the buildup of creosote, which can be a fire hazard, and ensures proper ventilation.
- Gutter Cleaning: Regular gutter cleaning prevents water damage to your home. Clogged gutters can cause water to overflow and damage your roof, siding, and foundation. Aim to clean your gutters at least twice a year, in spring and fall.
- Checking Crawl Spaces for Water: Moisture in crawl spaces can lead to mold, mildew, and structural damage. Inspect your crawl spaces for signs of water or dampness at least once a year, especially after heavy rains.
- Pest Control: Regularly inspect your home for signs of pests and take appropriate measures to control them. Consider scheduling an annual inspection with a pest control professional.
- Roof Inspection: Even though your roof was inspected during the home purchase, it’s wise to conduct an annual inspection to check for any new damage or wear.
- Septic System Inspection: If your home has a septic system, schedule an annual inspection and pumping every 3-5 years to prevent backups and maintain efficiency.
- Deck and Patio Maintenance: Check for loose boards, nails, or screws, and reseal wood surfaces to protect them from the elements.
- Plumbing System Check: Besides annual inspections, periodically check for leaks, drips, and water pressure issues to avoid larger problems.
Understanding Warranty vs. Maintenance
It’s crucial to understand the difference between what is covered by your home warranty and what requires regular maintenance. Your home warranty typically covers major system failures and appliance breakdowns.
Check your home’s warranty for specific details and coverage periods to know what is included. On the other hand, regular maintenance tasks like cleaning, inspections, and minor repairs fall under your responsibility as a homeowner. Being aware of these distinctions helps you manage and prioritize your maintenance efforts effectively.
Save for the Future
Financial preparedness can make a significant difference when it comes to handling unforeseen issues. Unexpected home repairs can be costly, so it’s wise to set aside funds for future home maintenance and repairs.
Experts recommend saving 1%-4% of your home’s purchase price annually for maintenance.
Additionally, review your home inspection report and seller’s disclosure to identify any upcoming large expenses, such as a new roof, and adjust your savings accordingly. Start saving as soon as you move in to ensure you’re prepared for any future repairs or maintenance needs.
Know When to Call a Professional
Relationship building is important in home maintenance care.
Having a go-to contact for your annual inspections will serve as a massive resource when emergencies come up. While it’s great to handle some maintenance tasks yourself, certain repairs and inspections are best left to the experts.
To ensure the job is done correctly and safely, find reliable professionals, such as plumbers, electricians, and HVAC technicians, and keep their contact information handy. Knowing when to call a professional can save you time, money, and the stress of dealing with potential complications.
Final Thoughts
Owning a home is a rewarding experience, but it comes with its share of responsibilities. Regular maintenance is key to ensuring your home remains safe, efficient, and beautiful. By following these tips, you’ll not only protect your investment but also create a comfortable and welcoming space for you and your family.
Are you a first-time homebuyer in Indianapolis or the Greater Indianapolis area looking for more personalized advice and guidance? Our team at The Brokerage Co is here to help!
Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can assist you in your home-buying journey. Let’s make your dream home a reality together!
