When it comes to looking after your home, most Territorians stay on top of the usual jobs like mowing the lawn, checking the smoke alarms, touching up paint, and making sure the air cons are serviced before the humidity really kicks in. But there are other parts of the home that often get overlooked. They might not seem urgent, but if left unchecked, they can lead to bigger problems and unexpected costs down the track.
Cabinet Doors and Hinges
If your cupboard doors aren’t sitting quite right or the hinges feel loose, you might be surprised how often a simple screwdriver adjustment is all it takes. Whether it’s tightening or easing off a screw, this quick fix can save you a call-out and keep your kitchen or bathroom running smoothly.
Silicone Seals in Wet Areas
In our Territory’s humid climate, silicone seals around showers, sinks, and tubs can sometimes hide mould or start peeling back without obvious signs. Even if they look fine at a glance, replacing them every now and then can help keep moisture at bay and your bathroom feeling fresh.
Plumbed Appliances
Appliances like fridges, dishwashers, and washing machines that connect to water lines often get overlooked until a leak shows up. Taking a moment to clean around them safely and check hoses or fittings could help nip any potential drips or leaks in the bud.
Garage Doors
Your garage door takes a fair bit of wear and tear, especially here in the Territory. Getting it serviced regularly can help keep the motor humming and all those moving parts working well, so you’re not caught out by a door that won’t open or close when you need it most.
Hot Water Systems
Hot water systems work quietly behind the scenes, but they do need some attention too. A quick visual inspection now and then for leaks, rust, or odd noises can help you spot when something’s not quite right before it turns into a bigger issue.
Solar Panels
Solar panels are a smart way to save on power bills, but dust, leaves, and bird droppings can reduce their efficiency over time. Many homeowners find having them professionally cleaned every year or two is a handy way to keep their system running at its best.
Fence Maintenance
The Top End’s weather can be tough on fences, so it’s worth regularly checking where posts are cemented in and inspecting screws and connections. Keep an eye out for any wobbling or leaning, and watch for rust, what looks like surface rust can sometimes signal more serious damage inside metal posts. A little regular attention can help your fence stay strong and secure.
Door Weatherstripping
We often forget about the rubber seals around our external doors. Over time, weatherstripping can crack or wear away, letting in drafts, moisture, and even insects. Checking these seals every so often and replacing them if needed can improve comfort and help protect your home from unwanted damage.
Keeping up with these often-overlooked maintenance tasks can make a real difference in how smoothly your home runs and help you avoid unexpected headaches down the track. While a little regular care goes a long way, it’s also important to review your home insurance to make sure it suits your needs and provides the right level of protection.
Here at AANT, we’re proud to support Territorians and our unique lifestyle. We encourage you to explore home insurance options through AANT and consider getting a quote to find the cover that’s right for you.
Important information:
This insurance product is distributed by Automobile Association of Northern Territory Inc ABN 13 431 478 529, an authorised representative of the issuer Insurance Australia Limited ABN 11 000 016 722, AFSL 227681 under the CGU Brand. Any advice provided is general advice only and does not take into account your individual objectives, financial situation or needs (“your personal circumstances”).Before using this advice to decide whether to purchase a product, you should consider your personal circumstances and the relevant Product Disclosure Statement. The Product Disclosure Statement and Target Market Determinations are available from aant.com.au
