Autumn maintenance checklist

Given the option, few of us would volunteer to spend our day off on a ladder pulling leaves out of a gutter. But, when your home is the most significant investment you're likely to make in your lifetime, as it is for most Kiwis, maintenance it is a must!

Home maintenance can be daunting - but it doesn't have to feel overwhelming. Keep on top of the small stuff, and your house will run like a well-oiled machine. And, now that we're at Level 3, you'll be able to order some items to help you to get through your Autumn Property Maintenance Checklist.

The Autumn months are the perfect time to ensure that your home is healthy and warm before the wet, cooler winter months really kick in.

Ensure your jobs don't fall by the wayside by following the list below:

• Chimney/Fireplace

· If you're planning on using your fireplace over winter, now would be the time to give it a clean and check for hazards.· Unclean chimneys can cause numerous hazards. Your chimney should be annually cleaned and inspected.· If you aren't confident cleaning your own chimney, be sure to hire a professional.· Your fireplace will also need to be checked for cracks, as this can also be a hazard.

• Mould and Mildew Control

· As you head into the wet and cooler months, be sure to check your home for condensation, spots, as well as lack of airflow.· Built-up moisture can result in mould. It's important to take preventative measures to avoid future issues.· An easy way to air out space is to leave your windows open.· Other ways to prepare for, and to prevent mould, are to install double glazed windows, central heating and proper sealing/insulation.

• Carbon Monoxide/Smoke Detectors

· Always check your smoke detectors and install new batteries before you start using your heating appliances and fireplace this winter.· Fireplaces and heating appliances can be a source of danger in a home. It is a good idea to have at least one smoke detector in each room of the house and hallway.

• Hot Water Cylinder

· Your hot water cylinder is likely to have a lot more use over the winter months. An annual inspection in the autumn months is useful to extend its life.· Hot water tanks should also be flushed out; this will remove sediment build-up.· Insulate older tanks by wrapping a thick blanket around them.· These measures will help to prevent heat loss, conserve energy and will save money in the long-term.

• Curtains

· Your windows tend to be one of the largest ways that you can lose heat in your home. If you don't have double-glazed windows, glass can be a poor insulator.· Consider replacing your old curtains with thermal backed curtains if you don't already have some.· Thermal curtains are also able to act as a sound barrier due to the thick batting. This can be useful if your home is prone to high-traffic areas.· It's important to remember to wash your thermal curtains by hand with a mild detergent in warm water. This is important to stay healthy and remove dust build-up.

Other jobs to get done include:

• Cleaning drains with either a drain cleaner or baking soda and vinegar mix.
• Inspect visible pipes for leaks.
• Check under your bathroom and kitchen cabinets for any leaks.
• Check and clean the grout around your tiles.
• Check the outside of the house and see if the roof has signs of loose or broken shingles.
• Check the facade and foundation for signs of water pooling and cracks.
• Have a look at your gutters, these control the flow of rainwater on your house, protect your roof, siding and foundation. It's good to clean these at least twice a year.

Want to know how to keep your garden in tip-top shape? Have a look at this blog.