Let's start with the outside of your new home
Exterior: Every few months, walk around the perimeter of your house to make sure everything is functioning properly and that the elements haven’t caused any damage or problems such as soil erosion after a heavy rain event, says Camille Jenkins, Vice President of National Customer Relations for Meritage Homes.
Gutters: Many gutters have guards to keep out debris such as leaves and twigs. But sometimes, things may still fall through. Make sure to clear your gutters of any debris—especially during the fall and winter. In cold climates, inspect your gutters after snow or heavy rain to ensure they are clear of debris and that rainwater flows freely. Water that overflows from the gutters can fall along the foundation of the building, which can soften the soil under and around it and lead to serious issues.
Sprinkler system: When it comes to sprinklers, there are a few things to keep an eye on. For instance, check that they’re not spraying onto your house or a gate when turned on. This can cause water damage over time. And, when it gets cold, check to see if the irrigation line or any sprinkler heads have cracked from the weather. In cold weather states, you need to drain the system, just like your garden hose, to ensure it does not crack. “If it does, it could cause quite the water bill from leaks,” says Jenkins.
Hose faucet: Turn the faucets, also known as bibs or spigots, on and off to make sure they’re not leaking. If you live in a cold weather state, disconnect, drain, and put away your garden hose before temperatures start to drop. Also, before the winter season, turn off the bib’s indoor valve. Turn the handles to open the hose bibs and let the water in the pipes drain so no water freezes inside them. It’s best to keep the outdoor faucets in the “on” position during winter so that if the inside valve leaks, the water won’t freeze in the spigot.
