Why you need a home maintenance log

Do you know the last time you got your A/C serviced to keep it in tiptop shape against the Florida elements? If you're not sure, it's time to pull together a home maintenance log. Your home maintenance log contains important information, such as where your utilities are located. It's also a running tally of all the home improvements you've done and all the maintenance you've had performed on your home. If you don't have a maintenance log, here are some reasons to consider starting one:

Keep track of important upgrades

When you buy a new, energy-efficient appliance, such as a refrigerator or stove, you need to keep that information handy for several reasons:

• You may need the receipt to register the warranty.
• You'll want to remember the date you purchased it in case it needs servicing. 
• You'll need the owner's manual if you ever need to troubleshoot the appliance.
• Prospective buyers will know when you purchased the appliance and how much energy it saves.

Information like this can help you sell your home a few years down the road, when buyers realize they won't need to shell out money for new appliances right away. 

Conveniently record service visits

Are your storm shutters inspected annually? If so, you'll want the dates. This proves to prospective buyers that you maintained your home well, meaning everything is likely to work just as well as you say it will. Keep your service records, dates and providers. When you have parts replaced, keep the receipts. Keep the papers your technician gives you that lists the work performed. This is valuable information for you, for the next person who services your home and for someone who might consider buying your home in the future. 

Map out important areas of your home

You may have no trouble remembering where your air handler is and the age of the unit, but when it's time to sell, it helps tremendously to help guide prospective buyers to that information. Write down the location, and log it in your home maintenance binder. You'll also want to include the locations of water shut-off valves, electrical panels, and any replacement parts in storage. 

It's easy to start your own home maintenance log. All you need is a file box or a binder that you store in a safe place. It will help keep you organized, and it can be quite the lifesaver in the event of a gas leak or broken water pipe.