Proactive Property Maintenance in Victoria

What Smart Owners Do Year-Round

Taking care of a property is about more than just fixing things when they break. It’s about staying ahead of potential issues and protecting your investment — especially here in Victoria, where our homes face everything from scorching summers to soaking wet winters.

Whether you own your own home or investment property, proactive maintenance can save you time, money, and a whole lot of stress down the track. Here’s a practical guide to the kind of maintenance every property owner should be thinking about throughout the year.

Keep an Eye on the Exterior

• Gutters: These need clearing at least once a year, sometimes twice depending on trees surrounding the home — usually after autumn and again before heavy winter rain. Blocked gutters are a major cause of roof leaks.
• Roof: It’s smart to have your roof checked annually or after a big storm. Look for cracked tiles, rust, or anything out of place.
• Painting: A fresh coat of paint doesn’t just look good — it protects your home from the elements. Depending on exposure, you might need to repaint every 5–10 years.
• Cracks and Movement: Watch out for cracks in external walls or around windows and doors. These can be early signs of movement or subsidence, especially in clay-heavy soil areas.
  
• Pest Control: Termite inspections should be done once a year — they’re a big issue in Victoria and can cause serious structural damage.

Weatherproofing Makes a Difference

• Windows & Doors: Check the seals. If you can feel a draft, it’s probably costing you money in heating or cooling.
• Drains: Keep stormwater drains clear of leaves and garden debris to avoid flooding during heavy rain.
• Sump Pumps: If your property has one, test it before winter to make sure it’s working when you need it.

Heating, Cooling & Energy Efficiency

• Heating and Cooling Services: Get your systems serviced annually. This keeps them running efficiently and helps prevent breakdowns when you need them most.
• Air Filters: These should be cleaned every few months. It’s a quick job that improves air quality and system performance.
• Insulation: Many older homes are under-insulated. Topping up your ceiling insulation or installing underfloor insulation can make a huge difference to comfort and energy bills.

Safety and Compliance

• Smoke Alarms: These must be serviced by a professional each year. It’s a small task that saves lives.
• Safety Switches: Press the test button every six months to make sure they’re working properly.
• Electrical Check-Up: If your home is older, have an electrician assess the wiring and switchboard. Safety standards have changed a lot in the last few decades & electrical checks must be completed every 2 years on all properties.
• Gas Check-Up: Under the Residential Tenancy Act, Rental Providers also need to have a licenced trades attend to report that the gas in the property is compliant.

Plumbing Checks

• Leaks: Check taps, toilets and under sinks regularly. A small drip can quickly become a bigger issue.
• Hot Water System: A yearly service can help avoid breakdowns and extend the life of your system.
• Flexi Hoses: These metal braided hoses under sinks and basins should be replaced every 5–10 years. They’re a common cause of water damage when they burst.

General Upkeep

• Pressure Cleaning: Driveways, decks and pathways can get grimy or slippery over time. A quick pressure wash can freshen things up and prevent accidents.
• Garden Maintenance: Keep trees and shrubs trimmed back from the house to reduce fire risk and avoid clogging gutters.  Mulching garden beds can also keep your plants healthy.
• Garage Doors: Test them regularly to ensure they’re operating safely, especially the auto-reverse function.  Electric motors should be serviced every 2 years to ensure they are operating well.

The Bigger Picture

Staying on top of proactive maintenance isn’t just about avoiding repairs. It protects your property’s value, keeps tenants happy, and helps you avoid being caught off guard by expensive issues. Plus, it shows that the home is cared for — something future buyers and renters will notice straight away.

If you’re not sure where to start or would like help coordinating trades, our team is here to assist. We work with trusted professionals and can help make sure your property is always in top shape.

Need help creating a maintenance plan? Reach out to the LongView team and we would be more than happy to chat.