Check for weed growth in guttering and repair leaking joints.

With spring weather, pink blossoms and new growth providing a sense of joie de vivre it hardly seems right to remind readers that now is the perfect time to consider maintenance and security around the home.

Unfortunately, it is, especially if homeowners and lifestylers are in the throes of planning a Christmas or summer holiday. 

To secure your property, whether you’re away or in residence, it pays to follow some basic rules. Firstly, ensure windows and doors are firmly lockable – older-style ranch sliders, which are notoriously easy to break into may need bolts or locks added, remember sheds and outbuildings too.

Security cameras are an option and to give the impression that the house is occupied, install timers on lights.

Ensure your alarm is in good working order and if you don’t have one, talk to the experts.

It’s no good leaving security measures to a few days before Christmas because you will run out of time to organise what is needed and installers are likely to be fully booked.

Start a photographic record of all electrical appliances, computers, stereos, valuable tools and specialised equipment for insurance purposes. Ensure all policies are current. Don’t leave this job, which can be time-consuming, to the last minute.  

Spring is also the time for outdoor jobs. A well maintained home will safeguard your investment in it. Wash down the house, spray with a mould and grime remover and loosen with a soft broom.

Then water blast or hose down the exterior.

Check for cracks in sheathing, especially on the corners. Often, these can be repaired with a long-lasting silicon sealant.

However, such cracks can be a sign of major leaking. If in doubt, call an expert. 

With daylight savings just a couple of weeks away now is a good time to prepare for painting when the weather is fine but not too hot. Ask for advice from the paint department at your local DIY or speciality paint shop. Decks too, should be cleaned and any soil or residue from pot plants removed, to avoid rotting deck timber.

Check for grass growth or left over leaves in gutters. Moss and lichen can also be treated with special removers. These take several weeks to work, but can be very effective.

Trim back plants, bushes and trees near the house and start tidying up garden beds which have been neglected over winter. 

If you’re lamenting that these tasks need to be performed at all, perhaps make a schedule allotting yourself one job a day until done. But don’t leave it until November or December because as sure as eggs, other priorities will take over and when the time comes to go on holiday, your home could be a red flag for thieves.

And for those planning to stay at home, don’t fool yourself that these jobs can be left until another day. A job done now, will mean more time to relax, head for the beach, entertain and really enjoy the summer when it comes.

And remember, safeguarding a home is not just about locks and alarms. Good maintenance will ensure no nasty accidents – a loose tread, slimy paths, rickety handrails can all lead to falls and injury which may cost a lot in the long run. Together maintenance and security will protect the investment you have made in bricks and mortar, timber and tiles.