An essential task is pest control, with the emphasis being on preventing termite infestation. For optimum results, an initial treatment should be done to the foundation of the building, directly into the underlying soil. This is not only an effective method to prevent migration of these insects, but it will also minimise future damage to your wooden floors and furniture. Follow-up preventive applications are necessary.

Failure to treat the soil may result in having to drill floor tiles for the insertion of pesticides, which is inconvenient, expensive, and sometimes unsightly.

The roof is often neglected. Regardless of the type of material used, this area needs routine maintenance to ensure effectiveness. Cedar shingles are attractive, cool, and perfect for tropical climates, but few homeowners realise that over time they will lift away from the anchor nails. They will last much longer when coated periodically with an oil-based compound to prevent warping of the shingles. With hurricanes being an ever-present danger, checking your roof during and after the hurricane season is strongly advised.

Painting should be done not just for decorative purposes, but also to enhance the longevity of concrete and wooden structures. It is important that the appropriate paint for the climate is used, as cooler climes can see an increase in mildew and mould. In such cases, walls need to be first coated with a special mildew retardant, and allowed to dry before applying paint.

Drainage of storm water is another area of concern, and the use of guttering to drain water away from the foundation is becoming popular. One needs to ensure that the down flow is channelled away from flower beds and lawns, to prevent erosion of these areas. It is equally important to lead the water away from manholes and gully basins which drain household wastewater. This will preserve the efficiency of a 'soak away' pit. To make the pit more absorbent, install a grease trap to prevent oils from entering the system to compromise its function.

Flower beds add appeal to a home, but these should be carefully sited to prevent seepage of moisture through any walls they adjoin, causing paint to peel on the inside. Waterproofing of the adjoining wall is imperative to prevent this problem.

Periodic inspection of the electrical system is advised, as fires are often caused by old or "raw" wires, some of which lose their insulation material which, unbelievably, forms a part of termite cuisine.

Standby generators should be serviced by licensed personnel on a scheduled basis. When refuelling, ensure that the unit is switched off, and cooled for a few minutes. Never place a generator in an enclosed area, as the exhaust fumes may build up and cause an explosion, and when inhaled, could cause respiratory disorders, and even death.

Plumbing repairs can be onerous, and it is not unusual for owners to be faced with huge bills for replacing broken water mains in their system. Certain communities are prone to high water pressure, which can cause damage to shower heads, toilet inlet valves, washing machines, and worse yet, the main supply pipe leading from the meter.

Should any of the above apply to you, seek the help of a plumber or the NWC to check the water pressure, and if these levels are unacceptable, the installation of a pressure-reducing valve will avert a major expense caused by water wastage and replacement of pipes.