Annual Home Health Check

Gas Safe engineer, £80–£120. Mandatory for landlords, strongly recommended for homeowners. Catch faults before winter.

Air builds up over time, reducing efficiency. Bleed until clear water runs. Top up boiler pressure if it drops.

Should be stored at 60°C to prevent Legionella. Delivered at taps no higher than 48°C to prevent scalding.

Look for damp patches, mould, or dripping. Tighten connections or call a plumber.

Turn off and on. If stiff, apply penetrating oil. If seized, get a plumber to service it.

Traps dry out and let sewer gas in. Run water for 30 seconds in guest bathrooms and utility sinks.

Clear leaves and debris. Ensure water drains freely. Blocked drains cause flooding.

Press the test button on your consumer unit. The switch should trip immediately. If it does not, call an electrician.

Any that are warm, discoloured, crackled, or sparking need immediate attention from an electrician.

Press the test button. Replace batteries annually. Replace the entire unit every 10 years.

Press the test button. Replace batteries annually. Replace the unit every 5–7 years (check manufacturer guidance).

Binoculars from the garden. Missing tiles, damaged ridge, moss growth, blocked gutters, sagging lines.

Blocked gutters overflow and cause penetrating damp. Clean annually, more if near trees.

New cracks or growing cracks may indicate structural movement. Photograph and monitor. If concerned, consult a structural engineer.

Draughts, leaks, and condensation between panes indicate failed seals. Repair or replace.

Fascias, soffits, window frames, doors. Look for rot, flaking paint, or soft spots. Treat early to avoid replacement.