5 Common Homeowner Mistakes to Avoid

Owning a home can be a great experience, but when unexpected issues pop up—whether you have a minor breakdown or a major catastrophe—it’s almost certainly going to require time and money to fix. Here are five mistakes we often see homeowners make—and tips from experts to help you avoid them.

1. Ignoring the small stuff.

The toilet that runs constantly? That dripping faucet? The little crack on the deck? They might not seem like big problems, but they can turn into bigger issues over time. When you see “small” things around the house, take steps to address them as soon as you can, because it likely will be a lot easier (and cheaper) today or tomorrow than a year from now.

2. Not doing regular checks around the house.

Many homeowners haven’t been in their attic or crawlspace for years. Do a walk-through periodically to look for issues such as leaks, areas of wear, or other problems. Be sure to go outside! How does the roof look? Do you see any cracks in the siding? Are the seals around doors and windows solid? It’s especially important to catch those things before the rainy season begins in fall and winter.

3. Skipping maintenance on your appliances.

Not only will keeping your appliances in good shape ensure they work effectively and prolong their lifespan, maintenance also can prevent serious risks. For example, when was the last time you cleaned out your dryer exhaust vent? No, not the screen you pull out when you’re doing laundry, but the one on the back or side. Too much lint buildup there can cause a fire—so clean it out at least once a year. Other appliance tips:

• Clean refrigerator coils at least once a year.
• Clear out the dishwasher’s food filter regularly.
• Vacuum dust and debris in window air conditioners before you start using them each year.
• Test smoke and carbon-monoxide detectors twice a year, installing fresh batteries each time.

4. Neglecting other major systems.

Your HVAC system needs attention so it won’t fail when you need it most. Having your furnace, heat pump, and/or central AC unit serviced each year before you start using them heavily will alert you to any potential problems. Change filters at the appropriate intervals, and if it’s been a while since you’ve had your ducts cleaned, consider that as well.

5. Not having a home warranty or adequate insurance.

Despite your best maintenance efforts, that air conditioner might break down, the water heater could stop working, or the refrigerator suddenly won’t get cold. These things just happen, and if your appliance is out of warranty, you’re on the hook. Consider a home warranty. Also, check your homeowners’ insurance policy to ensure you have the right protection.

Your home is one of the biggest investments you’ll ever make, so it pays to be diligent about caring for it. Keep your eyes open around the house. Don’t hesitate to get out the tools, or call a professional if needed. Remember, prevention is the best medicine—and that old saying holds true just as much for your home’s health as it does for yours.

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