New Homeowner Checklist: 10 Essential Steps After Moving In

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New Homeowner Checklist: 10 Essential Steps After Moving In

January 19, 2026 No Comments

Published: Jan 2026 New Homeowner Checklist — 10 Important Things To Do Right After Moving In Moving into a new home is exciting—but it can also feel overwhelming. Between unpacking boxes and settling in, it’s easy to overlook a few critical tasks that protect your investment and keep your home safe. Before you get too comfortable, take a moment to go through this New Homeowner Checklist. These 10 simple steps will help you secure your property, prevent future headaches, and start your new chapter with confidence. 1. Change Or Rekey All Exterior Door Locks You never know who might still have a key to your new home — the previous owners, contractors, or neighbors. Rekeying or replacing all exterior locks gives you complete control over who

Tankless water heater system installed in a utility area.

When To Replace Your Water Heater | Home Inspector Tips

January 5, 2026 No Comments

Published: January 2026 When Should You Replace Your Water Heater? A Homeowner’s Guide Your water heater is an essential appliance in your home, providing hot water for showers, laundry, and dishwashing. However, like all appliances, it won’t last forever. Over time, water heaters can lose efficiency, suffer from wear and tear, and ultimately fail. Understanding when to replace your water heater is crucial for maintaining comfort and avoiding costly repairs. In this guide, we’ll explore the signs that may indicate it’s time for a replacement, helping you make an informed decision for your home. Signs It’s Time To Replace Your Water Heater Age Of The Water Heater The first factor to consider is the age of your water heater. Most traditional tank water heaters last about

Preparing Your Home For The New Year: Essential Maintenance Tasks

December 19, 2025 No Comments

Published: December 2025 Start The Year With A Safe, Efficient, And Well-Maintained Home As one year ends and another begins, homeowners everywhere are thinking about fresh starts — and that includes taking better care of their homes. The new year is the perfect time to inspect, repair, and plan improvements that keep your property safe, comfortable, and energy-efficient. Whether you’re reviewing your HVAC system, checking your roof for wear, or setting goals for future upgrades, starting the year with a solid maintenance plan saves time and money down the road. A professional home inspector can help identify hidden issues before they become major repairs, ensuring your home starts the new year strong. Why New Year Home Maintenance Matters Just as annual doctor checkups benefit people, homes

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Winter Home Emergency Preparedness Tips

December 5, 2025 No Comments

Published: December 2025 Stay Safe And Warm This Winter With Smart Home Preparation Winter storms can strike unexpectedly, leaving homeowners without power, heat, or access to essential supplies. Preparing your home before extreme cold and snow arrive is one of the most important steps you can take to keep your family safe and comfortable. As trusted home inspectors, we often see preventable damage during winter — from burst pipes and roof leaks to unsafe heating systems. Preparing early helps you avoid costly repairs and ensures your home is ready for whatever Mother Nature brings. Why Winter Emergency Preparedness Matters Winter weather can cause more than just inconvenience. Ice, freezing temperatures, and heavy snow can lead to: Frozen or burst water pipes Roof and gutter damage from

Hand pressing the button on a smoke detector.

Test Your Carbon Monoxide Detectors This Winter – Home Safety Tips

November 21, 2025 No Comments

A professional home inspection can identify carbon monoxide (CO) risks by examining heating systems, appliances, and detectors. Inspectors ensure detectors are properly placed and functioning. They also pinpoint potential hazards, such as faulty heating or poor ventilation. With a thorough inspection, homeowners gain peace of mind, knowing their home is safe from CO buildup.

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Thanksgiving Safety Tips For Homeowners | Home Inspections

November 7, 2025 No Comments

Thanksgiving is a time for family, food, and gratitude—but safety should come first. From kitchen fires to winter weather prep, a few simple steps can keep your home safe this season. A professional home inspection can uncover hidden hazards and ensure your systems are ready for the holidays, giving you peace of mind as you celebrate.

Close-up of burning firewood inside a dark brick fireplace.

Fireplace Safety Tips For Homeowners

October 24, 2025 No Comments

Before lighting your first fire this season, make sure your chimney and fireplace are safe. Creosote buildup, blockages, or structural damage can put your family at risk. Learn essential fireplace safety tips, follow a homeowner checklist, and see how a professional home inspection ensures your home is ready for safe, cozy evenings.

White house number 143 painted on a gray wall

How To Make Your Home Easy To Find In An Emergency

October 10, 2025 No Comments

In an emergency, every second matters. If your house numbers are hidden, faded, or too small, first responders may struggle to find your home. Learn how to make your address visible with practical safety tips, a homeowner checklist, and advice from professional home inspectors to keep your family safe and your home easy to locate.

Woman opening a refrigerator filled with eggs, bananas, fruits, and drinks.

Refrigerator Organization Tips For Freshness And Safety

September 26, 2025 No Comments

Keeping your refrigerator organized is more than saving space—it’s vital for freshness and safety. By understanding fridge zones, you can store food in the right place, extend shelf life, and reduce waste. From setting the correct temperature to using crisper drawers effectively, these strategies help keep your family safe while maintaining food quality every day.

Close-up of a roof gutter guard installed on a roof.

Fall Maintenance Checklist: Ready Your Home For The Season

September 12, 2025 No Comments

Get your home ready for colder weather with this essential fall maintenance checklist. From inspecting your roof and gutters to sealing drafts, servicing your HVAC, and preparing plumbing, these tasks help prevent costly repairs. Routine fall maintenance boosts energy efficiency, improves safety, and protects your investment—ensuring your home stays warm, safe, and ready for the season ahead.

Electrical breaker panel with labeled circuits inspected during a home inspection

Electrical Checks In Home Inspections: What To Know

August 22, 2025 No Comments

Your home’s electrical system powers everything from lighting to HVAC. During a home inspection, we review key components like the main panel, wiring, outlets, and fixtures to ensure safety and proper function. Identifying visible issues helps you make informed decisions, prevent potential hazards, and maintain a safe home environment for your family.

Family spending quality time together at home.

Back-To-School Home Safety Check: Essential Tips

August 8, 2025 No Comments

Back-to-school isn’t just for backpacks and buses. It’s the perfect time to ensure your home is safe and secure for the busy school season. From HVAC maintenance and smoke detectors to digital safety and emergency prep, this home safety checklist covers it all. Don’t wait—schedule a professional home inspection to catch issues before they become problems.

Elegant living room with large windows, brown sofas, and a wooden coffee table.

Why Home Inspections Matter Before You Travel

July 25, 2025 No Comments

Heading out of town? Don’t forget to protect your home. A pre-vacation home inspection helps prevent water damage, fire risks, and security issues while you’re away. It’s a simple step that can save thousands and give you peace of mind. Discover why inspecting before your trip is a smart move every homeowner should make.

Smiling woman hugging a golden retriever and a gray cat.

Essential Tips For Keeping Your Pets Safe This Summer

July 11, 2025 No Comments

As summer heat rises, pets can easily suffer from dehydration and heat exhaustion. Keep them safe by ensuring proper hydration, limiting outdoor playtime, and protecting their paws. Regular grooming and providing a cool environment are key. Follow these tips to help your furry friends stay safe and comfortable this summer. Reach out for more pet-friendly home advice.

Ceiling with severe water damage and peeling paint near bathroom tiles.

Tips On Spotting Common Issues In Your Home

June 27, 2025 No Comments

Discover how to identify common home issues, such as plumbing leaks, electrical problems, and foundation cracks, before they become major headaches. By staying vigilant and addressing these concerns early, you can save money on repairs and prevent costly damage. Follow these expert tips to keep your home in top condition and avoid unexpected issues.

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