Schulz Professional Inspection Services- Annual Inspection Services

1.	Safety Equipment: Ensure that all smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors and fire extinguishers are in good working order. Replace batteries in appropriate devices as needed, or at least twice each year.
2.	Hot Water Heater: Each year, drain hot water heater tank in order to remove sediment from the bottom of the tank.
3.	Gutters: Seasonally clean gutters and drain pipes so leaves and debris won't clog them and be sure they drain away from the house.
4.	Fireplace: Clean out all ashes. In the fall, check the chimney for loose or missing mortar. Have chimney professionally cleaned. Make sure damper closes tightly.
5.	Replace Filters: Check furnace filters, humidifiers and electronic air cleaners monthly. Don't forget whole home water systems, filters clean.
6.	Heating System: (Fall) Have heating system serviced. .
7.	Roof: Check roof and around vents, skylights and chimneys for leaks, make repairs as necessary.
8.	Kitchen & Bathroom Caulking: Check the countertop, backsplash, bathtub and shower caulking monthly and improve promptly as needed.
9.	Attic: Check attics for evidence of leaks and condensation and make sure vents are not obstructed, at least twice a year. If there is no ridge vent, make sure gable vents are kept open all year for proper ventilation.
10.	Siding and Paint: Siding and paint should be checked for cracks and holes. Replace caulk if necessary.
11.	Windows and Doors: Doors and windows should be checked for leaks. Gaps should be filled and replace seals as needed.
12.	Plumbing: Supply plumbing should be checked annually for leaks. Outdoor faucets should be protected for the winter. Operate the main shut-off valve and critical isolating valves to ensure proper operation in the event of an emergency. Leaking or dripping faucets should be repaired.Check for leaky faucets in kitchen and bathroom(s). Replace washers as necessary.
13.	Refrigerator: Make sure your refrigerator door seals are airtight. Test them by closing the door over a piece of paper. If you can pull the paper out easily, the latch may need to be adjusted or the seal may need to be replaced. In addition, if you have a refrigerator with coils on the back , vacuum the coils at least twice each year. Your refrigerator will run more efficiently with clean coils.
14.	Trees, Shrubs & Vines: Limbs overhanging the house should be cut back. Dead limbs should be removed. Vines should be trimmed back from all wood surfaces.

Advance Warning

Every year, weather "events" expose your home to wind, water, sun and other potentially damaging conditions.

Regular maintenance and inspections allow a home owner to monitor conditions and components of the home. Having regular roof inspections, for example, will give advance warning to allow for several roofing quotes to plan ahead for the time and cost required when the need arises for a new roof covering. If on the other hand, no maintenance is done, and the roof suddenly leaks, there is very little time to do comparative shopping. Under these circumstances, there is additional damage to deal with, and the home owner may be forced to go with the roofer who can do the job the fastest - not necessarily with the roofing materials of your choice or at the best possible price.

Your annual evaluation may include the following services:

Check driveway/sidewalks for cracks and trip hazards.
Check decks and porch for loose decking rails and pickets.
Inspect exterior cladding and siding for loose materials, swelling and caulking failure around doors and windows.
Inspect windows for loose/missing screens and broken glazing.
Check exterior doors for operation, weather tightness and function of locks .
Inspect heating/AC differential temperature range and return air filters & vents.
Perform a visual plumbing inspection of all drains and supply lines including washing machine, toilets, sinks and water heater.
Tests smoke alarms.
Visually inspect exterior chimney brick work and pointing.
Check ceiling and walls for obvious cracks, general conditions and water stains.
Inspect floors and floor coverings for general condition and water stains.
Inspect tub/shower conditions, enclosures and caulking.
Check toilets for function and proper fit to the floor.
Inspect and operate GFCI and arc fault receptacles, check all wall switches and receptacles to be sure cover plates are properly installed.
Visually inspect crawl space for venting wetness, discoloration, and condition of accessible floor joists and overall conditions.
Visually inspect foundation for damage and overall condition.

We can tailor an annual evaluation to suit your needs!

Vacation

It is important to secure your home from would-be intruders & create the appearance that someone is living there. For example before leaving stop mail, paper and other delivery services; provide for lawn and grounds maintenance services.

Use or remove perishables from refrigerator and food storage rooms and cabinets.

Be sure to turn off & unplug all unused appliances EXCEPT of course the refrigerator, freezer, and security lamps.

It is very important to arrange for someone to check home regularly for damage leaks or other potential issues, also making the home appear to have activity.

Emergency

Each member of the home should know the location and operation of safety equipment like fire extinguishers. Also, the location and use of the gas shut off, electric service entrance panel- and properly labeled circuit breakers as well as emergency phone numbers and the first aid kit should be in place in case of emergency.