Maintenance Checklist
The starting point for regular maintenance is to use a checklist from which you can inspect a building in a logical sequence.
The following is not an exhaustive list but it covers the most critical elements:
Rainwater gutters, channels and hopper heads
- Inspect and clear any debris at least every autumn and preferably more often
- Are there any leaking joints?
- Does rainfall cascade over the gutter from the roof?
- Does the water pool in any one area?
- Do the gutters slope correctly towards outlets?
- If gutters are fixed to timber fascia boards, check the condition of fascia boards and at the same time soffit and barge boards
Rainwater pipes
- Inspect when it is raining and note leakages
- Clear any blockages
- Check rear side of pipes with a mirror and look for cracks and corrosion
- Are pipes securely fixed to the wall?
- Are there any signs of staining or algae growth, or any washed-out mortar joints, on the wall behind the pipe?
Pitched roof coverings
- Inspections should be carried out twice a year and after storms or high winds
- Debris on the ground will give an indication of roof problems
- Are there any loose, slipped, broken or missing slates or tiles?
- Is there a lot of moss? This could block gutters and damage slates and tiles
- Look for signs of dampness on ceilings as a possible indication of roof leaks
Flat roof coverings
- Inspections should be carried out twice a year
- Are there any splits, tears, cracks or holes in the roof coverings?
- Look for signs of dampness on ceilings as a possible indication of roof leaks
Chimneys
- Are the chimney stacks or chimney pots leaning?
- Are any chimney pots out of position?
- Is there any vegetation growing out of the chimney?
- Check for cracks, loose or bulging stones or brick, and badly eroded or open joints
- Arrange for a close inspection promptly if any of the above is noted
Ridge tiles
- Are any of the ridge tiles missing?
- Check to see if there are any gaps between each ridge tile and arrange for close inspection if necessary
Flashings
- Are all flashings fixed into the wall?
- Check to ensure that the joints, where they are fixed, are in good condition
- Ensure that flashings are dressed down and have not been blown or moved away from the surface of the wall
Drainage gullies
- Inspections should be carried out every autumn and preferably more often
- Check that drainage gullies are free from silt, debris, vegetation and other objects
- Make sure that all gully inlets are covered by a grating
Exterior walls
- Is there deep erosion or missing pointing in the joints?
- Are there any cracks?
- Look for defects in stonework, brickwork and rendering
Base of wall
- Check to ensure that ground levels are at least 150mm below the level of any known damp-proof course or 150mm below internal floor levels
- Ensure that vents are not obstructed
- Remove plants and vegetation abutting and growing on the building
Windows and doors
- If made of timber or metal, is the paintwork in good condition and is there any decay?
- Check for bare timber, especially on thresholds, sills and lower and underside areas of window sashes
Interior building services, pipes and flues
- Check water and heating systems for leaks
- Ensure that pipes are lagged
- Electrical and gas installations should be regularly inspected by certified experts
- Inspect chimney flues and ensure that they are clear from obstruction and do not leak