Looking after your home
Take action to prevent problems arising.
- Report repair problems as soon as you notice them.
- Remove moisture on windows, cills and so on to prevent mould, rot or rust forming.
- Clean wastepipes and clear gullies regularly.
Look after fixtures and fittings to keep them looking good and make them last longer.
- Clean uPVC or aluminium window frames.
- Oil hinges and locks.
- Remove limescale from basins, taps, toilets and so on.
Check once a year
- Stopcock and gate valves
Can you turn them? - Heating
Are the controls set correctly? - Radiators
Are there any cold spots? They may need bleeding. See Bleeding a radiator. - Chimneys
If you use solid fuel, have the flues been swept? - Roofs
Are any slates or tiles loose or missing? - Gutters and downpipes
Are any leaking or blocked?
Regular jobs around the home
- Windows
Wipe away any condensation puddles and clean off any mould. You can wash down plastic frames with warm soapy water. - Wastepipes
Clean through sink wastes with a suitable product from a DIY store, or vinegar. See Clearing a blocked waste or toilet. - Limescale
Remove with a descaler, available from a DIY store, or vinegar. - Gullies
Clear any leaves or rubbish from covers and check that water flows freely. - Hinges and locks
Lubricate with a little oil.
Care of metal and plastic windows
Every year
- Brush or vacuum lower channels to remove all grit, making sure the draining holes are clear.
Every six months
- Clean both inside and outside frames and cills with washing-up liquid. Use a soft cloth or sponge.
- Clean and lightly oil all moving parts to window fittings. Do not use spray oils.
- Do not use:
- abrasive cleaning powder or solutions;
- bleach or strong cleaning fluids; or
- steel wool, Scotch pads or pot scourers.
