A Seasonal Checklist for a Happy, Healthy Property

As New Zealanders, we love our homes – and our unique climate means they need a bit of seasonal love to stay in top shape. From the humid summers to the crisp, sometimes damp winters, proactive maintenance isn’t just about preventing headaches; it’s about protecting your investment and ensuring your home remains a comfortable, healthy sanctuary.

At Jack of All Trades Limited, we believe every homeowner can benefit from a simple, seasonal checklist. Knowing what to look for and when can save you significant time, stress, and money in the long run. And for those tasks that are too big, too complex, or just not your cup of tea, we’re always ready to lend a professional hand.

Here’s your essential New Zealand home maintenance calendar:

Summer (December – February): Outdoor Focus & Pre-Holiday Prep

Summer in NZ is all about enjoying the outdoors, but it’s also a prime time to address exterior elements before the cooler, wetter months.

Your DIY Checklist:

• Gutters & Downpipes: Give them a good clear. After spring blooms, leaves and debris can build up, leading to overflows in summer downpours.
• Decks & Patios: Clean and inspect. Waterblast to remove moss and grime, check for loose nails, splintering wood, or signs of rot.
• Exterior Paintwork: Walk around your house. Look for peeling paint, cracks, or fading, especially on sun-exposed walls. Early touch-ups save full repaints.
• Outdoor Taps & Hoses: Check for leaks or drips. Disconnect and store hoses properly to prevent sun damage.
• Pest Control (Initial Check): Look for signs of insect activity around entry points. Seal small cracks if found.
• Clean Fans/Air-Con Filters: If you have heat pumps or air conditioning, clean the filters for optimal performance and air quality during hot spells.

When to Call Jack of All Trades:

• Roof Inspection & Repair: If you spot missing tiles, rusted sheets, or suspect leaks. It’s often safer and more thorough for a professional to inspect and repair roofs.
• Extensive Deck/Fence Repair or Sealing: For significant rot, structural issues, or professional staining/sealing to prolong their life.
• Exterior Washing (High Access): For multi-storey homes or if you prefer a professional wash of your cladding to remove grime and mildew.
• Gutter Guard Installation: To save future cleaning hassle.
• Persistent Pest Issues: For more serious infestations requiring professional treatment.

Autumn (March – May): Winter Proofing & Clearing

As the leaves fall and temperatures drop, autumn is crucial for preparing your home for the colder, wetter New Zealand winter.

Your DIY Checklist:

• Gutter Clearing (Again!): Autumn leaves are a major culprit for blockages. Clear them out thoroughly to prevent winter overflows.
• Window & Door Seals: Feel for drafts. Apply weatherstripping or caulk around gaps to keep warmth in and cold out, saving on heating bills.
• Chimney & Fireplace: If you have one, clear out ash and debris.
• Garden Tidy-Up: Trim overhanging branches that could damage your roof or block gutters in storms. Rake leaves and clear pathways.
• Check Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Alarms: Test them and replace batteries.

When to Call Jack of All Trades:

• Roof Inspection & Repair: A must before winter hits. We can check for broken tiles, loose shingles, and ensure flashings around chimneys and skylights are secure.
• Chimney Cleaning & Inspection: A professional sweep ensures safe operation and compliance with insurance policies.
• Heating System Servicing: For heat pumps, gas heaters, or central heating, a professional service ensures efficiency and safety for winter.
• Insulation Checks: We can assess your ceiling and underfloor insulation for gaps or damage, helping you stay warmer and reduce energy costs.
• Dampness & Mould Solutions: If you notice persistent damp patches or mould, we can help identify the cause (e.g., ventilation issues, hidden leaks) and provide effective solutions.

Winter (June – August): Inside Comfort & Damage Spotting

Winter in NZ is about staying warm, dry, and safe. This season is often when underlying issues become most apparent.

Your DIY Checklist:

• Monitor for Dampness & Mould: Regularly check walls, ceilings, and behind furniture for dark spots or a musty smell. Address small spots with mould cleaner and improve ventilation.
• Clean Heat Pump Filters: Keep them clean for optimal heating efficiency.
• Check Alarms (Monthly): Continually test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
• Protect Outdoor Pipes: In frost-prone areas, insulate exposed outdoor pipes to prevent freezing and bursting.
• Ventilation: Open windows for short periods even on cold days to air out your home and reduce condensation.

When to Call Jack of All Trades:

• Persistent Leaks: If you discover active leaks from the roof, plumbing, or windows. We offer prompt leak detection and repair services.
• Severe Mould Infestations: If mould is widespread or returns quickly, it indicates a bigger moisture problem that requires professional assessment and remediation.
• Draught Sealing: For more extensive sealing around windows and doors, or if you suspect issues with joinery.
• Storm Damage Repairs: For any damage caused by strong winds or heavy rain (e.g., roof damage, fence repairs).
• Water Heater Issues: If your hot water cylinder isn’t performing or shows signs of wear.

Spring (September – November): Refresh & Prepare for Summer

Spring is the perfect time to shake off winter’s chill, refresh your home, and get ready for the warmer months ahead.

Your DIY Checklist:

• Exterior Wash: Give your house exterior a good wash down to remove winter grime and mildew.
• Pathways & Driveways: Clear any moss or slippery buildup. Check for cracks and clean.
• Garden Beds: Tidy up and prune overgrown shrubs and trees away from the house structure.
• Window Cleaning: Clean windows inside and out for sparkling views.
• Test Outdoor Taps: Turn on outdoor taps and check for leaks after winter.

When to Call Jack of All Trades:

• Roof & Gutter Inspection: A post-winter check for any damage that might have occurred.
• Exterior Painting/Touch-ups: If your exterior paint needs more than just a wash, or if you have significant peeling/cracking.
• Deck & Fence Repair/Restoration: For extensive repairs, re-oiling, or painting of outdoor timber.
• Pest Control Measures: If you have recurring issues with pests attempting to enter your home as the weather warms.
• Larger Garden Projects: For heavy pruning, section clearing, or repairs to outdoor structures.

Your Trusted Partner, All Year Round

Keeping up with seasonal maintenance can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. By understanding these key seasonal tasks, you’re already doing a great job protecting your New Zealand home.

For those jobs that require expert tools, specific skills, or simply more time than you have, Jack of All Trades Limited is here to help. With our experienced team, dedication to quality, and friendly 24/7 support, we’re the reliable solution for all your home and business repair and maintenance needs, ensuring your property is healthy, safe, and looking its best, whatever the season.

Ready to get your home maintenance sorted?

Visit jackofalltradesltd.co.nz to learn more about our services or contact us today for a free quote on your next project. Let us take the hassle out of home maintenance!