Home maintenance
For most people their home is the most important investment they will ever make. Maintaining your home will:
- Maintain or increase the value of your home
- Prevent damage and expensive repair bills
- Save energy and reduce running costs
- Increase your security, safety and comfort
The Private Sector Housing Team has produced a helpful guide on how to maintain your own home. This booklet is one of the Private Sector Housing Team's service improvements to encourage and support you as a homeowner in maintaining both the value and condition of your home. You can also telephone or email us for maintenance advice.
Please download a copy of the Home Maintenance Booklet below or alternatively phone the Private Sector Housing Team on 01752 307075 or email us on decenthomes@plymouth.gov.uk
Home maintenance booklet [1759KB]
These are our top ten maintenance tips:
- Make sure your gutters and down pipes are free from leaves and debris
- Replace loose or missing roof slates and tiles and make sure all of your roof flashings are in good condition
- Make sure air bricks and sub floor ventilation is clear, it is important to ventilate your home
- Have your gas appliances serviced regularly and make sure there are no leaks
- Top up your loft insulation if necessary ensuring adequate ventilation of your roof space
- Check your doors and windows for adequate security
- Make sure the outside ground level is not higher than your damp proof course
- Never pour fat or oil down drains, throw used nappies away, don't flush them down the toilet
- Have your electrical wiring checked by a qualified electrical every five years
- When carrying out home maintenance or DIY make sure you wear appropriate clothing and use suitable protective equipment, if in any doubt seek advice