Tree Trimming
Trees on your property can threaten your home. They may be dead and at risk of falling or they have branches hanging over your roof. Tree removal and maintenance is a sizable expense that many new homeowners will have to deal with. Simply getting an old stump off your lawn can cost a few hundred dollars. Removing an entire tree can run into the thousands.
HVAC Home Maintenance Costs
Have the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system serviced two times per year. The HVAC system is the most expensive appliance to replace in your home. Get it serviced so that it lasts longer and works more efficiently.
Sign up for a service contract with a local HVAC company to help you remember to complete this task. You might find that it’s less expensive to go that route than to pay for separate service visits.
HVAC Filters
Change the HVAC filters to keep the system running optimally. It’s a good idea to change the filters every 30 to 90 days. Basic filters are affordable, however, more expensive HEPA filters will trap allergens and other harmful particles. You can save money by buying both in bulk.
Home Maintenance Costs for Duct Cleaning
This typically comes into play when you buy a used home. If the previous owners didn’t service the HVAC regularly, then you might discover that the ducts are dirty. This can be a problem for anyone with allergies. Schedule a duct cleaning every few years.
Buy a Fire Extinguisher
Buy at least one fire extinguisher if your home isn’t already stocked and be sure to place a fire extinguisher on each level of your home. Buy ABC-rated extinguishers that will put out multiple types of fires.
Plumbing Expenses
This is one of those home maintenance costs that many people fail to think about until something goes wrong. If you have a burst pipe or leaky toilet, you’ll need to call in a plumber. Plumbers charge a high hourly rate, so this can be a considerable expense.
Home Maintenance Costs for Pest Control
Include pest control in your budget to prevent an infestation. A wood-destroying insect problem will end up costing you far more than taking preventative maintenance.
Fireplace Cleaning
You may have purchased a home with a fireplace, which needs to be kept clean and safe. You’ll need to plan on calling in a professional to clean the fireplace and the chimney each year before cold weather hits. A dirty fireplace is a common cause of house fires.
Include these home maintenance costs in your budget so they don’t catch you by surprise.
Checkpoint Home Inspections provides home inspection services to the North Coast of Oregon. Contact us to schedule an appointment.