There are some basic guidelines you must follow to protect and maintain your home. The following will provide you with some of those guidelines.

Let's start on the outside.

Roof:
Do not walk on the roof, but rather inspect it from the edges. If you must walk on the roof, do so very carefully.

Snow, ice and high winds can damage a roof. Every spring and after a heavy storm, you should check for water stains under the overhang and in the attic. Loose or damaged shingles should be replaced.

Check for water stains in the attic, and also under the overhang after heavy storms and each spring. Check the flashing around the chimney, in the roof valleys and against any walls to see that it's secure and watertight.