As summer arrives, it's the perfect time for homeowners to focus on essential maintenance tasks that can prevent costly repairs and ensure a well-maintained property. HomeTeam Inspection Service Vice President Josh Spires emphasizes that a few simple steps can make a significant difference. By performing regular maintenance on both interior and exterior components, homeowners can avoid unexpected repairs and enjoy a worry-free season. Here are some expert tips from HomeTeam to help your clients keep their homes in top shape this summer.

Interior:

Heating, Ventilation, and AC system: HVAC system filters need to be changed regularly. Hire a technician to check on the AC unit and tune it up, so the day doesn’t come that it’s needed but it won’t turn on or work properly.
Chimney: After a long winter season, the fireplace may have been used a few times to stay warm and cozy. Make sure to sweep out the chimney and clean out any ash and debris leftover from past fires.
Attic: Check to see if any mold is growing in this area, especially if there have been any roofing leaks and issues. It can show up in many forms, from stains and moisture prints on surfaces to fungi and bacteria growth. There may also be signs of pests or critters after the winter season, so keep an eye out for that.
Windows and doors: Look to see if any screens are damaged. Lubricate the hinges and mechanisms, which can freeze and tighten up over winter, making opening and closing more difficult.
Crawl space: Grab a flashlight and look inside the crawl space area of your property. Ensure no critters tore through the vapor barrier sheet that is covering the ground, as that could lead to serious foundation or mold problems.
Carpet: If you don’t have one, consider renting a carpet cleaner to give flooring a deep scrub. The carpet can be full of allergens and bacteria after tracking in mud and dirt on shoes during the winter months.

Exterior/Landscaping:

Roofing: Look at your roof. Has it been damaged by wind or animals? Have nails popped out due to expansion and contraction? The shingles may need to be repaired or replaced, or leaks may need to be patched.
Gutters: Those who live in areas where it drops below freezing temperatures often experience ice clogging their gutters. Gutters can also get stopped up with leaves or dirt, and need to be cleaned out; otherwise, leaks can form or they can crack.
Siding and trim: Examine if the winter weather has affected any of the wooden parts of the property’s exterior. It can rot away at the wood, letting termites in and taking away from the place's curb appeal.
Landscaping: Prune any shrubbery in the yard that is overgrown and could pose a risk to the property. Large tree branches may need to be cut down before they snap. Trim bushes and pull weeds to allow for a fresh, manicured look and remove dead vegetation.
Outdoor lighting: Replace any bulbs that may have burnt out. If switching to solar-powered exterior lights has been a consideration, now is a great time to make the leap and have them installed, as the next six months contain the most daylight hours.
Electrical panel: Because the winter months are colder and darker, homeowners use more electricity to heat their properties and keep rooms well-lit. Make sure this extra strain did not cause any issues with the electrical panel.