Question 1

Do home warranties cover maintenance?

Accepted Answer

Home warranties generally do not cover routine maintenance. However, First American Home Warranty offers pre-season HVAC tune-ups and other member benefits, including discounts on services like gutter cleaning and furniture assembly.

Question 2

How do I budget for home maintenance costs?

Accepted Answer

A common rule of thumb is to budget at least 1% of your home&#8217;s value each year for maintenance and repairs. For example, if your home is worth $300,000, you should set aside about $3,000 per year to cover routine upkeep and unexpected repairs.

Question 3

What are the most important home maintenance projects?

Accepted Answer

Some of the most important home maintenance tasks include servicing your HVAC system, inspecting the roof and gutters, checking for plumbing leaks, and ensuring your electrical system is in good condition. Regular maintenance helps prevent costly repairs.

Question 4

What home maintenance tasks can I do myself?

Accepted Answer

Many routine home maintenance tasks, such as changing HVAC filters, cleaning gutters, and checking for leaks, can be done yourself. However, professional servicing is recommended for HVAC systems, electrical work, and major plumbing repairs to ensure safety and efficiency.

Question 5

How often should I perform home maintenance?

Accepted Answer

Home maintenance should be done on a monthly, seasonal, and annual basis. Monthly tasks include changing HVAC filters and checking for leaks, while seasonal tasks may include weatherproofing doors and servicing heating and cooling systems. Annual tasks include deep cleaning, inspecting the foundation, and servicing major appliances.

Question 6

Why is a home maintenance checklist important?

Accepted Answer

A home maintenance checklist helps homeowners stay organized and proactive in preventing costly repairs. By keeping track of routine tasks, you can ensure your home remains in good condition year-round.

Question 7

What are common seasonal home maintenance tasks?

Accepted Answer

Common seasonal maintenance tasks include inspecting and servicing HVAC systems before summer and winter, checking gutters and downspouts in the fall, winterizing plumbing before freezing temperatures, and cleaning windows and siding in the spring.

Question 8

How can I prevent unexpected home repairs?

Accepted Answer

Preventative maintenance, such as cleaning gutters, sealing windows, servicing HVAC systems, and checking for leaks, can help prevent costly home repairs. A home warranty can also provide financial protection for covered systems and appliances.

Question 9

Does a home warranty help with maintenance costs?

Accepted Answer

While home warranties do not cover routine maintenance, they help protect against unexpected repair or replacement costs for covered home systems and appliances. A home warranty can provide peace of mind by reducing out-of-pocket expenses when a covered item breaks down.