Owning a home brings with it a lot of responsibilities. By paying attention to things ranging from basic maintenance, fire safety, trash disposal, and the health and safety of the overall neighborhood, you’ll be a better homeowner and a better neighbor.
Take Care of the Exterior to Be a Better Homeowner
While some communities have a homeowners association (HOA) with rules on exterior appearance and landscaping, others do not. Whether you have community rules or not, there are a lot of reasons to enhance your curb appeal. Keeping your yard and exterior maintained and tidy helps improve the whole neighborhood.
Get to Know Your Neighbors
If you ever feel as though you don’t know your neighbors, you’re not alone. An ownerly.com survey conducted between November 2019 and March 2020 reveals that 1-in-4 homeowners under the age of 40 are not on a first-name basis with their neighbors. By getting to know your neighbors, you can work together to look out for each others’ homes and improve community connections.
Check Your Smoke/Carbon Monoxide Detectors Regularly
Every home should be equipped with smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors to protect your home and family from a fire. Smoke detectors have a 10-year lifespan and batteries should be replaced every six months. The units should be both hard-wired and battery-powered, according to the National Fire Protection Association.
Be a Better Homeowner with Regular Home Inspections
Homes should be inspected periodically, not just during the buying process. Some home inspection professionals recommend that everything from structural integrity to electrical systems should be inspected at 2 to 3-year intervals to aid in planning for repairs and to catch problems early.
Review Your Insurance Policy Annually
Insurance professionals recommend reviewing your insurance policies with your insurance company, including homeowner’s coverage, as often as once a year. These policy reviews will help make sure that your policy provides proper coverage and can also save you money if you’re over-paying.
Make Sure Your Garbage Bin is Secured
Some communities have dumpsters, while in others it is up to the residents to put trash at the curbside for collection. Secure the lid of the bin to prevent animals from rummaging through the garbage. Some sanitation experts recommend a metal can with a locking lid. You could also use bungee cords to tightly secure the cover.
Keeping your home maintained and proactively addressing any problems is key. Promote the safety and health of your family, neighbors, and local wildlife by being a better homeowner.
Precision Home Inspectors provides inspection services to Hampton Roads in Virginia. Contact us to book an appointment.