Fall Homeowner Checklist
Exterior
o Clean all gutters and downspouts, make sure water drains away from the house.
o Remove all leaves and debris from the roof.
o Trim all trees so that they are not within 5-10 feet of the house or roof.
o Have all tree limbs trimmed within 10 feet of your overhead electrical power lines.
o Remove vegetation and soil that may cause water to backup against the house.
o Clear fence lines to allow proper drainage to street.
o Wake sure all the brick weep holes are clear of vegetation, dirt and debris.
o Make sure that there is a rain cap and spark arrester on the chimney.
o Inspect roofing for missing, damages shingles or loose flashings.
o Check all soffit and roof ventilation for damage, do not seal attic ventilation holes to keep out cold air.
o Check you hurricane preparedness kit to make sure it is up to date.
Heating, Air Conditioning systems, & Fireplaces
o Check gas heating system for excessive rust and orange flame. Have system serviced yearly regardless of age.
o Clear excessive vegetation away from outside air conditioner.
o Make sure that smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors are installed in all bedrooms, at least one per floor.
o Replace all batteries in smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors.
o Make sure fireplace damper works and is partially open in case of gas leak.
o Inspect chimney flue for bird nests, loose bricks, cracks and excessive soot.
o Have chimney cleaned by a professional chimney sweep.
Plumbing and Electrical
o Test all Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) receptacles, use a lamp to see if light goes off when the test button is pushed in.
o Test all Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter (AFCI) breakers in the main breaker box, push test button on AFCI breaker and see if any lights or receptacle work in all bedrooms.
o Check below all bathtubs, sinks and commodes for plumbing leaks.
o Check water heater for leaks from pipes or in the overflow pan.
o Check Temperature Pressure Relief Valve on the water heater, if it does not open or close (stops leaking) have it replaced immediately by a qualified plumber.
Interior
o Check for cracked windows.
o Check all window and door weather stripping for damage or leakage.
o Check that the overhead garage door emergency disconnect (rope with red handle) is working properly.
o Check that the garage door opener safety devices are working, i.e. the optic sensors and the downward reversing mechanisms.
Miscellaneous
o Locate and know how to operate the main gas valve at the gas meter.
o Locate and know how to operate the main water shut-off valve at the house and at the street main water meter.
o Locate and know how to operate the main electrical disconnect to shut off all the power to the house.
o Locate and know how to operate the gas shut-off valves at each gas appliance throughout the house.
o Locate and know how to operate the water shut-off valve at the water heater.
Robert J.P. Goodspeed,
TAREI Advanced Inspector, TREC Professional Inspector #4100, ASHI Member # 204556
281-403-1010 office 832-615-3019 internet fax 1-866-403-1010 US Tollfree
Goodspeed Inspection Services, Inc.
Copyright © 2006 Goodspeed Inspection Services, Inc. All rights reserved.
Revised:
09/05/06.