Most homeowners keep some kind of mental checklist, and that’s going to include things like clean the kitchen, mow the lawn, fix that dripping tap one day soon… But no matter how organised you are, there are always a few jobs that slip through the cracks. That’s probably because they’re not the urgent things you see every day and instead they’re the background tasks that only make themselves known once something goes wrong. And by then, they’re usually more expensive or stressful to sort out. With that in mind, keep reading to find out what they are so you can check on them in your own home.
Checking Gutter Systems
You might not have thought about it, but the fact is that looking after gutter systems should be higher on everyone’s to-do list. Blocked or broken gutters don’t just cause a bit of overflow – they can lead to water damage, damp walls, and even cracked foundations if they’re ignored long enough. That’s why a quick seasonal check, clearing out leaves and moss, or scheduling a professional clean once a year saves a huge amount of hassle later because gutters are the kind of thing you don’t notice when they’re working, but you’ll definitely notice when they fail.
Testing Alarms And Detectors
Smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are easy to forget, but they’re also the most important safety devices in your home. Batteries run down and sensors age without showing it, and unless you test them, you may not notice until it’s too late. A few minutes once a month can literally be life-saving.
Servicing Appliances
Fridges, boilers, and washing machines all need routine servicing, and without it, efficiency drops, energy bills climb, and breakdowns happen at the worst possible time, usually right when guests are visiting or in the middle of winter. A yearly check-up often costs less than a major repair, and it adds years to the life of your appliances.
Seals, Insulation, And Windows
Another common oversight is checking seals around windows and doors. Over time, they crack, peel, or shrink, which means draughts sneak in and energy efficiency drops, and your insulation in the loft is the same story – it works silently in the background until it no longer does, so a quick check every year helps keep heating costs down and comfort levels up.
Garden And Outdoor Maintenance
It’s not just indoor jobs that matter – decking needs re-sealing, fences need treating, and driveways benefit from the occasional power wash to stop moss and weeds taking over… Plus, garden drains often get blocked with leaves and soil, and you might not notice until you have a mini-flood outside your back door. These smaller outdoor jobs keep your home looking cared for and prevent bigger problems down the line.
Final Thoughts
The things we forget are usually the ones that matter most when left undone, and adding these hidden tasks to your routine makes life easier in the long run, which keeps your home running the way you want it to.
