Fall Maintenance Checklist by Affinity Loss Prevention Services

Photo Credit: Phil Roeder | FlickrCC

Fall Maintenance Checklist

The kids are back in school and soon it will be time for hot apple cider. Fall is also a crucial time to prepare your properties for colder weather coming its way. Many types of damage can be lessened or avoided altogether by following the list below.

□ CLEAN YOUR GUTTERS!

Improperly channeled water can compromise the structural integrity of your

property, including the foundation and sheetrock inside. Water damage can

quickly lead to mold growth, which is a health hazard.

□ INSPECT THE ROOF, SOFFITS AND FASCIA BOARDS.

Using binoculars is a safe alternative to climbing a ladder. Check for damage

to shingles, nail pops and wood rot.

□ WINTERIZE ALL WATER SYSTEMS.

Drain, disconnect and store garden hoses. Install a faucet cover to help prevent

outdoor faucets and any connected plumbing from freezing. Drain your sprinkler

system and swimming pool pump. Turn off the water and fully drain the plumbing

systems of any vacant properties!

□ INSPECT SMOKE AND CARBON MONOXIDE DETECTORS.

Make sure carbon monoxide and smoke detectors are installed on each floor of

every one of your properties. They should be placed in each bedroom, main

hallway, kitchen and basement. Units should be tested monthly and should be

replaced after 10 years of use. Change all batteries at the same time at least

twice a year.

□ MAKE SURE YOUR MULTIPURPOSE FIRE EXTINGUISHER IS FULL AND

   OPERATIONAL.

Store your fire extinguisher in an accessible location, check the pressure and

follow the manufacturer’s instructions for monthly maintenance.

□ HAVE YOUR CHIMNEY PROFESSIONALLY CLEANED AND INSPECTED.

A $300 inspection will cost much less than an insurance deductible in the event

of a fire. A professional can repair any cracks, remove soot and other buildup,

and make sure the flue and gas lines are in good condition.

□ GIVE YOUR FURNACE A TUNE-UP.

HVAC systems should be checked at least twice a year—before winter or summer

arrive. Have the ducts professionally cleaned to prevent fires resulting from dust

buildup. Change furnace filters on a monthly basis.

□ CLEAN UP THE YARD.

Prune bushes, and trim trees and climbing plants. Thinning dead or

overgrown tree branches can prevent catastrophic roof damage in the event

of a storm. Don’t let weeds, ivy or other plants' roots exploit your foundation or

siding. Remove debris from your yard; properties with well-kept lawns are less

inviting to thieves and vandals.

□ REPAIR CRACKED, BROKEN OR UNEVEN DRIVEWAYS, WALKWAYS

   AND STAIRS.

The expansion and contraction caused by freezing and thawing can lead to

significant damage to exterior walkways. If kept unchecked, these hazards can

cause slips and falls.

□ PREVENT BUGS AND RODENTS FROM ENTERING YOUR PROPERTY.

Seal or caulk cracks, gaps or holes near baseboards, windows and doors.

Cable, plumbing and electric service entry points should also have a tight seal.

Any hole the size of a dime or larger may allow rodents to squeeze through.

© 2015 Affinity Loss Prevention Services • www.affinitylps.com