A new year typically brings resolutions and promises to get better at some aspect of life. For homeowners, this is the perfect time to get the house in order. Use the start of a new calendar to organize, address, and review in preparation for the year ahead.
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Review Maintenance Needs and Plan Ahead
Homes require regular, routine maintenance in addition to some less frequent updates. Take stock in both these needs and plan for them throughout the year. Changing filters, testing and replacing smoke alarm batteries, and dryer vent cleaning should all make the list.
Plan for larger needs as well like roof inspections or HVAC maintenance. Put everything on a calendar to hold yourself accountable and avoid it “slipping your mind”.
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Update Emergency Plans and Contact Information
Emergency plans can change based on a variety of factors like the age of those residing in the home and any renovations. It is important to review the plan annually, ensure everyone is aware of the plan, and make any appropriate updates.
Emergency contact information should also be reviewed each year. A list is useless if the names, numbers, and addresses are inaccurate. Be sure to update any new family phone numbers along with changes to physicians, dentists, and veterinarians.
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Pre-Spring Cleanup
The new year represents a fresh start and is a perfect time for a little pre-spring cleaning. While many months of winter may remain, is a great opportunity to evaluate the things around your home that may be excessive.
Evaluate closets and decide what clothing can be trashed or donated. Inspect storage spaces for useless or junk items that can be trashed, donated, or labeled for a spring yard sale. Take some time at the new year to do a little work and make the spring cleaning less cumbersome.
Conclusion
As part of your planning for the upcoming year, take a moment to evaluate your home and its needs. Approach the year with an organized perspective to make home maintenance far less daunting.
