Annual Property Maintenance Checklist

Regular property maintenance prevents small problems becoming expensive repairs. This comprehensive checklist covers essential tasks throughout the year, helping Belfast and Northern Ireland homeowners protect their property investment.

January-February: Winter Checks

Indoor Tasks: - Check loft insulation hasn't been disturbed by pests or moved during work - Test all smoke and carbon monoxide detectors - Bleed radiators if some are cold at the top - Check for signs of damp, especially around windows - Inspect plumbing for any frozen pipe damage after cold spells

Outdoor Tasks: - Clear leaves from drains and gullies - Check for storm damage to roof, fencing, and gates - Inspect gutters for ice damage - Look for any damp penetration on external walls

March-April: Spring Preparation

Indoor Tasks: - Deep clean after winter (windows, carpets, upholstery) - Service boiler before heating season ends (get good summer rates) - Check seals around baths, showers, and sinks - Test extractor fans in kitchen and bathrooms

Outdoor Tasks: - Full roof inspection after winter weather - Clear winter debris from garden and paths - Pressure wash driveway and patio (ideal time before summer use) - Check fencing for storm damage and rot - Inspect exterior paintwork for peeling or damage

May-June: Summer Preparation

Indoor Tasks: - Check air conditioning or fans if fitted - Clean and service tumble dryer (fire risk if vents blocked) - Declutter and organise storage spaces

Outdoor Tasks: - Exterior painting and staining (optimal weather) - Check and repair decking - Clean conservatory inside and out - Treat wooden garden furniture - Check outdoor taps and irrigation for leaks

July-August: Mid-Year Maintenance

Indoor Tasks: - Check window locks and door security - Inspect and clean kitchen extractor fans - Test burglar alarm and update codes if needed - Check for any pest activity (wasps, ants, etc.)

Outdoor Tasks: - Second grass cutting season peak - maintain mower - Trim hedges and overhanging branches - Check roof for any loose or slipped tiles - Inspect chimneys and flashing - Clean external lights and check sensors

September-October: Autumn Preparation

Indoor Tasks: - Service boiler and heating system before winter - Bleed radiators - Check draught excluders on doors and windows - Test central heating for any cold spots - Check insulation in loft is adequate

Outdoor Tasks: - Major gutter cleaning after leaves fall - Clear leaves from drains and gullie - Roof cleaning if needed (before winter wet) - Check outdoor lighting as evenings darken - Prepare garden for winter (put away furniture, drain outdoor taps) - Check render and masonry for any damage

November-December: Winter Preparation

Indoor Tasks: - Final heating system check - Ensure loft hatch seals well (heat loss) - Check hot water cylinder insulation - Know location of stopcock in case of burst pipes - Keep salt/grit for paths

Outdoor Tasks: - Final leaf clearance from gutters - Protect vulnerable pipes from freezing - Check exterior lights (shorter days) - Secure loose items that could blow in storms - Consider professional gutter cleaning if not done

Professional Services Schedule

Some tasks are best left to professionals. Here's a recommended schedule:

Signs of Problems to Watch For

Urgent Attention Needed: - Water stains on ceilings - Damp patches on walls - Cracking or movement in walls - Blocked drains causing flooding - Roof tiles missing after storms - Gas smell (call emergency number)

Monitor and Address Soon: - Peeling paint or render - Moss growth on roof - Stiff or sticking doors/windows - Dripping taps - Slow drains - Yellowing sealant

Conclusion

Consistent maintenance keeps your property in top condition and prevents expensive emergency repairs. While many tasks can be DIY, others benefit from professional expertise and equipment.

At Diamond Property Maintenance NI, we provide comprehensive property maintenance services throughout Belfast. From annual gutter cleaning to complete property renovations, we help homeowners protect and improve their properties. Contact us to discuss a maintenance schedule for your home.