How to choose the best power tool brand for your project
Find out which power tool brand is right for your home with this quick guide to Milwaukee, DeWalt, Makita, Ryobi, and Rigid.
- Regular home maintenance can prevent costly repairs, improve safety, and protect your investment.
- Major maintenance areas include lawn care, roof inspections, air duct cleaning, plumbing checks, and more.
- The Better Business Bureau recommends hiring trusted professionals for specialized tasks.
Regular home maintenance does more than just keep your home looking its best. This can help you avoid costly repairs, improve safety, and protect one of the largest investments most consumers will make. The Better Business Bureau recommends several important steps homeowners can take to prevent problems and keep their properties in good condition.
According to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, ongoing maintenance can reduce allergens, prevent illness, and lower the risk of accidents. It also helps homeowners identify the need for repairs early, long before they become costly problems. Many people use seasonal checklists to stay organized throughout the year, while others turn to cleaning and maintenance services if they need extra help.
keep the lawn clean
A well-maintained lawn increases curb appeal and helps deter pests like snakes and rodents. Lawn care typically includes landscaping, regular maintenance, and maintaining sprinkler and irrigation systems. If necessary, our experts can help you manage these tasks safely and efficiently.
Please check the roof
Roofs are affected by wind, rain and debris. BBB recommends inspecting your roof for missing shingles, leaks, or other damage several times a year, especially after a storm. Homeowners can also prevent damage by cutting back dead and hanging branches and clearing away debris. If a problem occurs, a professional roofing contractor can help with repairs or replacements.
Keep air ducts clean
Homeowners should schedule air duct cleaning every three to five years. However, if there are signs of mold, pests, or excessive dust, you should plan on cleaning sooner. Clean ducts improve heating and cooling efficiency, extend the life of your HVAC system, and further reduce your energy costs. A trained HVAC technician can perform this task.
Check for plumbing problems
Regular plumbing checks can help homeowners catch leaks early. BBB suggests identifying reputable plumbers through recommendations from friends and neighbors and checking their ratings and BBB certifications on BBB.org. Having a trusted plumber’s contact information on hand can be especially helpful in an emergency.
Consider installing an alarm system
Alarm systems provide extra peace of mind and protect your valuables when no one is home. Homeowners can explore a wide range of security options to find the system that best fits their needs.
Whether homeowners choose to perform maintenance themselves or hire help, BBB recommends working with trusted professionals, especially for specialized tasks. Consumers can search BBB.org to find accredited businesses that meet high standards of integrity and transparency.
For more tips and guidance for homeowners, visit BBB.org/HomeMaintenance.
BBB’s Business Directory includes profiles with verified reviews and complaint history to help you find trustworthy businesses. You can also file a complaint or submit a customer review at BBB.org/ScamTracker. To investigate or report a scam, visit BBB.org/AvoidScams.
Jan Diaz is president and CEO of the Better Business Bureau of Northern Indiana, which serves 23 counties. Contact the BBB at 800-552-4631 or visit: BBB.org.
