Household tasks that receive the most disdain unveiled
In a recent survey, it was found that a majority of respondents recognise the value of professional help when it comes to maintaining their homes.
Gutter Cleaning
According to the survey, 44% of respondents would call a professional to change a lock, 36% would call for gutter cleaning, and 35% would call to fix a leaky tap. The importance of gutter cleaning in Victorian homes cannot be overstated. Neglecting this task can lead to serious water damage, including deterioration of the foundation, soil erosion, interior water intrusion, wood rot, and mold growth. Clogged gutters cause water overflow which can damage the home’s siding, landscaping, and structural integrity. Additionally, heavy debris buildup can cause gutters to pull away from the house, increasing repair complexity and water intrusion risks.
Twice a year gutter cleaning is recommended to prevent issues like blocked drains. The start of autumn is an ideal time to clean gutters before winter, as leaves and debris can accumulate and cause problems during the wetter months.
Smoke Alarm Maintenance
Failing to maintain smoke alarms in Victorian homes presents significant safety risks. According to Consumer Affairs Victoria guidelines, lack of proper maintenance or ignoring faults with safety equipment like smoke alarms can pose very high risks to health and safety, potentially rendering the home unsafe to live in and increasing the chance of injury or death in an emergency.
When deciding to call a professional, it's important to consider if the job requires specialist equipment, training, or a license, is dangerous, or beyond skill or physical ability. In the case of smoke alarms, it's crucial to ensure they are working reliably to protect occupants from fire hazards. If a smoke alarm is over 10 years old, it should be replaced.
The Benefits of Regular Maintenance
Regular gutter cleaning and smoke alarm maintenance are critical to:
- Prevent costly structural damage from water buildup and infiltration
- Reduce health risks from mold and wood rot caused by dampness
- Ensure the smoke alarms work reliably to protect occupants from fire hazards
- Comply with safety regulations and avoid legal liabilities relating to unsafe living conditions
In summary, neglected gutters threaten the physical condition of Victorian homes through water damage, while poor smoke alarm maintenance endangers occupant safety and legal compliance. Both require regular attention to preserve home value, safety, and habitability.
For those who prefer to outsource jobs they dislike, services like RACV Trades can help get your home in order, providing peace of mind and more time for the things you enjoy.
Engaging professional help for home-and-garden tasks, such as gutter cleaning, could save Victorians from costly water damage and potential health risks by ensuring that gutters are free of debris and functioning properly. Furthermore, regular smoke alarm maintenance, part of home-and-garden maintenance, is also essential for ensuring the safety of occupants and compliance with legal regulations.
