Minnesota & Western Wisconsin's First and Finest Home Inspection Service
   

2469 University Ave W, Ste 100W
St Paul, MN 55114

651-641-0641Schedule an Inspection

Indoors

Indoor Home Maintenance Tips

Plumbing

Fall
  • Check all visible faucets, valves & water pipes for leaks or corrosion
  • Check all waste pipes for leaks, be sure clean-out plug is securely in place
  • Check all toilets for leaks, loose bowl or tank, running water and proper operation
  • Check all fixture traps for leaks, rust or loose fittings
  • Flush floor drains with a pail of water

Heating

Fall
  • Check humidifiers for leaks, clean or replace screen or sponge
  • Clean heat registers, check ducts for loose fittings or supports
  • Check hot water systems for leaks around boiler and pipe fittings, check east radiator for heat, bleed radiators as needed
  • Have oil burners serviced annually
  • Check exposed flue pipes for rust and clearance to combustibles
  • Have oil burners serviced annually
Monthly
  • Clean or change filters in forced air furnaces. Write filter size on furnace for convenience

Electrical

Today
  • Know the location of the fuse box or the circuit breaking panel, label all circuits
  • Have non-tamper type "S" fuses installed to prevent hazardous over fusing
Fall
  • Check all lamp cords, extension cords and plugs. Replace worn items
  • Be sure closet lights are not close to flammable items (clothing or plastics)
  • Be sure recessed or enclosed fixtures have the correct size bulbs

Windows and Doors

Spring
  • Check window hold open devices (sash cords), replace if broken
Fall
  • Check weather stripping, doors and windows should fit correctly
  • Check window & door locks (deadbolt locks with 1" throw are best)
  • Check for cracked panes, loose & missing putty or moisture damage
  • Check and clean weep holes in combination windows (bottom edge of frame)

Attic

Fall
  • Check louvers and vents for obstructions, keep them open all year
  • Check underside of roof for dampness or frost
  • Check rafters for sags and splits
  • Check depth of insulation, increase is less than R-38

Home Safety and General Items

Today
  • Install smoke detectors within 15 feet of each bedroom. Check batteries annually
  • Install carbon monoxide detector. Check batteries annually
  • Know the location of shut off valves or switches for water, electric, gas, heating plant, water heater & label each clearly
  • Keep a file of operation instructions & warranties for mechanical equipment
  • When preparing for "DO IT YOURSELF" projects, get complete information on the correct materials & installation. Check your city code requirements
  • Buy and install at least one all purpose fire extinguisher
  • Put child locator signs on children's bedroom windows. (available from local fire department)
Spring
  • Check ceilings in every room including closets for staining
Fall
  • Check all stairs and treads for cracked or loose boards
  • Check railings and lights
  • Check caulking around tubs, showers etc. Check tile joints. Check for water damage in all baths
  • Check operation of fireplace damper, check fire box and flue for creosote buildup. Contact chimney sweep if more than 1/8" layer is present
Winter
  • If condensation on windows occurs frequently, reduce humidity, if condition persists check furnace vents and storm windows