{"id":29164,"date":"2025-01-16T11:23:58","date_gmt":"2025-01-16T11:23:58","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.goodhomesmagazine.com\/?p=29164"},"modified":"2025-01-20T14:25:39","modified_gmt":"2025-01-20T14:25:39","slug":"household-maintenance-brits","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.goodhomesmagazine.com\/news\/household-maintenance-brits\/","title":{"rendered":"40% of Brits can’t do everyday household maintenance"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

A recent consumer poll of over 2,000 homeowners in the UK has found that 40% of Brits have never been shown how to carry out household maintenance within their homes. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Additionally, two fifths of Brits feel they aren’t capable of carrying out the tasks themselves.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Searches for ‘boiler repair near me’ and ‘dishwasher repair near me’ have increased in the last month alone. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

This makes it clear Brits are relying on others to help with everyday issues in the home. <\/p>

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Transitioning from renting to homeowning means essential checks can be overlooked, especially with the absence of a landlord or letting agent to help advise.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Household maintenance checklist<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ian Palmer-Smith, appliance repair expert at Domestic & General, shares some top tips for homeowners to look over before taking the leap from renting to owning their own home…<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Safety checks<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

In the UK, landlords are responsible for ensuring properties are safe and secure. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

They will take care of security, essential fire, gas and electrical safety checks. <\/p>

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Whilst also maintaining secure entry points and assessing health risks such as damp and mould.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Ian explains: “When you become a homeowner, it is crucial to complete certain safety checks that are easily overlooked if you\u2019re used to renting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

“For example, you might need to ensure the gas boiler and heating system are inspected by a certified engineer, test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

“You’ll also need to arrange an electrical safety assessment to identify outdated wiring or faulty installations.”<\/p>

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“It is also now your responsibility to check for any damp areas, structural issues, and the condition of the roof in order to avoid any significant costs later down the line. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

“Forgetting to carry out these checks when becoming a homeowner could not only compromise the long-term value of your new home, but also your safety.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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New responsibilities<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Your main appliances, such as washing machine, tumble dryer and dishwasher are often the worst culprits for repair as they are used regularly. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Frequent wear and tear issues can include clogged filters, faulty wiring and motor failure.<\/p>

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Ian explains: “When it comes to your essential household appliances, like washing machines, tumble dryers, and dishwashers, it is tempting to outsource help every time.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cHowever, there are some simple prevention tricks to avoid needing repairs. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

“Cleaning the lint filter in your dryer and descaling your washing machine can prevent breakdowns. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

“Making sure your dishwasher isn\u2019t clogged ensures it cleans your plates and cutlery effectively. <\/p>

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“You can do this by checking the filter, and then running an empty hot cycle with some vinegar and baking soda.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cSimilarly, running a little vinegar through your washing machine on the hottest cycle followed by another cycle with baking soda in the drum should get rid of any unpleasant smells. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

“This will also freshen up your machine, preventing the need for a washing machine repair<\/a>.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Tips and Tricks<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Home repairs and maintenance can seem overwhelming, but making sure you have the essentials to hand when things go wrong can help to put your mind at rest.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Ian recommends a kit. Some essentials include a set of Allen keys for installing and removing fasteners, a drill, measuring tape, screw drivers, and spanners.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

“Taking the time to locate the essential systems and understand your utilities will help make the transition smoother. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

“Finally, don\u2019t forget to celebrate the milestone and enjoy creating your perfect space!\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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READ MORE<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n