🛠️ The Ultimate Handyman Checklist: 10 Essential Things Every Singapore Homeowner Should Fix Annually

The tropical climate and daily wear-and-tear in Singapore can be tough on homes. As a homeowner, being proactive with maintenance isn't just about preserving your property's value—it’s about ensuring the safety, comfort, and efficiency of your living space.

To help you stay on top of things, the experts at wwwww.handyman.sg have compiled the ultimate annual maintenance checklist. Time to grab your notebook and get to work!

1. Aircon Servicing and Chemical Wash

The aircon is the hardest-working appliance in Singapore. Neglecting it leads to efficiency loss and higher bills.

• What to Check: Ensure gas levels are adequate and the coils are clean. Look for dripping water (a sign of a clogged drain pipe).

• Action: Schedule professional quarterly or bi-annual servicing and an annual chemical wash to prevent mould build-up and ensure optimal cooling efficiency.

2. Electrical Outlet and Wiring Inspection

Faulty wiring is a major fire hazard. Don't wait until something trips.

• What to Check: Look for scorched, discoloured, or loose power outlets. Test the safety trip switch (RCD or circuit breaker) in your distribution board (DB box) to ensure it cuts power when necessary.

• Action: Have a licensed electrician inspect your main circuit board and any hot or sparking outlets annually, especially in older HDB flats.

3. Plumbing Leaks and Drainage Checks

Even a small, persistent leak can cause mould, water damage to ceilings, and attract pests.

• What to Check: Inspect the pipes under all sinks (kitchen and bathroom) and behind washing machines for dampness or drips. Pour a small amount of water down floor traps to ensure the P-trap is sealed and not causing sewer smells.

• Action: Fix or replace worn tap washers and seals immediately. Clear any slow-draining sinks or floor traps to prevent major clogs.

4. Grout and Silicon Sealant Refresh

These seals are your home's first line of defence against water damage.

• What to Check: Inspect the grout lines in your bathrooms and kitchen. Look for cracked, crumbling, or discoloured silicon sealant around bathtubs, sinks, shower screens, and countertops.

• Action: Scrape out and re-apply fresh, anti-mould silicon sealant where cracks are visible. This prevents water from seeping into walls and cabinets, saving you thousands on future repairs.

5. Ceiling Fan and Light Fixture Security

Vibration can cause fittings to loosen over time, creating a safety hazard.

• What to Check: Check that ceiling fans are stable when operating and that light fixtures (especially chandeliers or hanging lamps) are firmly secured to the ceiling.

• Action: Tighten mounting screws and inspect the fan motor housing for any signs of wear. If you hear excessive wobbling or grinding, call a handyman for an inspection.

6. Window and Door Hinge Tune-Up

Windows and doors in Singapore are exposed to harsh weather and need lubrication.

• What to Check: Check the stability of window fasteners (especially casement windows) and door hinges. Ensure the main door closes smoothly and securely.

• Action: Apply a silicon-based lubricant to door hinges, window tracks, and roller mechanisms to keep them operating smoothly and prevent loud squeaking.

7. Paintwork and Water Stains

Paint is more than cosmetic; it protects the underlying material from moisture.

• What to Check: Look for peeling exterior paint (especially on balconies) and any sign of brown or yellow water stains on internal ceilings—a critical sign of a persistent leak from the unit above or the roof.

• Action: Touch up exterior paint that is peeling. Immediately investigate any ceiling stains, as this requires locating and fixing the leak source before repainting.

8. Rubbish Chute Integrity (HDB/Older Condos)

A damaged rubbish chute is an entry point for pests and bad smells.

• What to Check: Inspect the door's seal. Does it close flush and tight? Look for signs of rust or degradation around the metal frame and handle.

• Action: If the seal is compromised, replace the rubber gasket or call a professional to assess if a full chute replacement is necessary to maintain hygiene and keep pests out.

9. Appliance Hoses and Connections

Washing machine and dryer hoses are often forgotten until they burst.

• What to Check: Inspect the rubber hoses connecting your washing machine and water heater (if applicable). Look for bulges, cracks, or brittleness.

• Action: Replace any aged or cracked hoses immediately. A burst washing machine hose can flood your entire service yard and kitchen in minutes.

10. Smoke Detector and Fire Extinguisher Check

Safety equipment must be functional at all times.

• What to Check: Press the test button on all smoke detectors. Check the expiry date and pressure gauge
  w(if applicable) on your fire extinguisher.

• Action: Replace the batteries in smoke detectors annually, even if they haven't started chirping yet. Replace expired fire extinguishers immediately.