Regular property maintenance is one of the best investments a homeowner can make. Small issues left unattended become expensive problems. A consistent maintenance routine keeps your home safe, comfortable, and retaining its value.

This checklist is designed for Canterbury homeowners, but the principles apply across New Zealand. Work through it seasonally to stay on top of your property.

Exterior Maintenance

Roof

• Inspect roof cladding for cracked, lifted or missing tiles or sheets
• Check flashings around chimneys, skylights and penetrations for gaps or corrosion
• Look for signs of moss, lichen or debris build-up
• Inspect gutters and downpipes for blockages, sagging or leaks
• Check gutter fixings and ensure water drains away from the house

Cladding & Exterior Walls

• Check for cracks, gaps or deterioration in cladding or exterior paint
• Inspect junctions, sills and penetrations for failed sealant
• Look for signs of moisture staining or mould
• Check deck and balcony connections to the house for water penetration

Windows & Doors

• Test all locks, handles and hinges for operation
• Check weatherstripping and draught sealing around frames
• Inspect glazing seals for condensation or failure
• Look for rot or deterioration in timber joinery

Decks & Fencing

• Check deck boards, joists and posts for rot, splitting or movement
• Ensure handrails and balustrades are secure and meet code requirements
• Inspect fence posts for rot at ground level
• Look for loose palings, rails or structural movement

Interior Maintenance

Plumbing

• Check under sinks, around toilets and behind appliances for leaks
• Test water pressure throughout the home
• Inspect silicone seals around baths, showers and vanities
• Check hot water cylinder for corrosion or leaks

Kitchen

• Inspect cabinet door hinges and drawer runners — adjust or replace as needed
• Check benchtop joins and splashback seals for gaps or lifting
• Look under the kitchen sink for moisture or mould
• Test rangehood ventilation and clean filters

Bathroom

• Check all silicone around bath, shower, basin and tiles
• Inspect grout for cracking or deterioration
• Test extractor fan operation
• Look for soft or springy flooring near the toilet or shower — a sign of moisture damage

Healthy Homes

• Check subfloor vapour barrier is in good condition and continuous
• Inspect ceiling and underfloor insulation — is it sufficient and in good condition?
• Ensure extractor fans vent to the exterior
• Check for draught gaps around doors, windows and penetrations

Annual Priorities

Once per year, carry out a full walk-around inspection of your property, including the subfloor and roof space if accessible. Document anything that needs attention and prioritise repairs before minor issues become major.

If you are not comfortable carrying out these inspections yourself, or you find something that needs professional attention, contact Selwyn Property Services for an honest assessment and free quote.

When to Call a Licensed Building Practitioner

Some maintenance tasks are straightforward DIY work. Others require a professional. Call a Licensed Building Practitioner when:

• You find structural defects, rot or signs of weathertight failure
• Repairs involve restricted building work (framing, cladding, windows)
• You are unsure of the scope or cause of a problem
• You need a written report for insurance or property sale purposes

Selwyn Property Services provides property maintenance, inspections and repairs throughout Selwyn District and Canterbury. Contact us for a free quote.