Maintaining a home in Western Australia means dealing with conditions that are harsher than most other parts of the country. Intense summer heat, coastal salt exposure, heavy winter rain, and rapid temperature swings all place stress on your roof, gutters, walls, foundations, and internal systems. Small issues that go unnoticed can turn into major structural or moisture problems – especially in older WA homes.
Drawing on insights from thousands of inspections across Perth and the South West, this property maintenance guide brings together everything a homeowner needs to stay ahead of wear and tear. It consolidates seasonal maintenance advice, long-term preventative strategies, and the issues our inspectors see most often. Whether you’re preparing for a change in season or wanting to protect the long-term health of your home, this guide is your all-in-one resource for understanding property maintenance in WA.
Why Maintenance Matters in Western Australia
WA’s climate is uniquely demanding on residential buildings. High UV levels break down paintwork and seals. Winter storms test drainage systems and expose roofing defects. Homes near the coast experience faster corrosion. Reactive clay soils in some suburbs cause seasonal movement, leading to cracking and moisture ingress.
Routine maintenance helps you:
- Prevent small defects from becoming structural issues
- Avoid moisture damage and mould
- Maintain energy efficiency
- Reduce long-term repair costs
- Protect insurance eligibility
- Extend the life of major building elements
A proactive approach is always more cost-effective than repairs after damage has occurred.
Seasonal Property Maintenance in WA
Each season brings different risks. The sections below outline key checks for WA conditions, based on what our inspectors see most frequently.
Summer Maintenance: Heat, Dust and Bushfire Preparation
Summer in WA brings long periods of intense heat, high UV exposure, increased garden water use, and the start of fire season in some regions.
Exterior and Garden
- Trim overhanging trees to reduce storm damage risk and improve fire safety.
- Check reticulation systems for leaks, broken sprinklers, and poor coverage.
- Clean exterior walls and windows to remove dust and salt that degrade materials.
- Inspect flyscreens and seals to improve ventilation and keep pests out.
Cooling and Ventilation
- Reverse ceiling fan direction to circulate cool air.
- Clean filters in air-conditioning units to improve efficiency.
- Ensure vents, exhaust fans and skylights operate properly to avoid heat build-up.
Roof and Guttering
- Inspect gutters for dust and leaves that accumulate over summer. Even minor blockages can cause problems once the first rains arrive in autumn.
Autumn Maintenance: Preparing for Heavy Rain
Autumn is the ideal time to prepare your home for incoming winter weather.
Roof and Drainage
- Clean out gutters and downpipes, ensuring water can flow freely.
- Check valley trays, flashings and roof tiles for cracks, rust or displacement.
- Test stormwater drainage around the home to confirm it directs water away from foundations.
External Sealing
- Inspect and seal gaps around windows, doors, and cladding.
- Repair deteriorated caulking or weather strips to prevent drafts and water ingress.
Garden and Outdoor Areas
- Clear leaf litter and tidy garden beds to reduce drainage issues around the home’s perimeter.
Winter Maintenance: Cold, Moisture & Storm Readiness
Winter in WA exposes hidden vulnerabilities, especially around roofing, drainage, and moisture management.
Moisture & Mould Prevention
- Monitor areas prone to condensation – bathrooms, laundries, and poorly ventilated rooms.
- Run exhaust fans during and after showers; ensure they vent externally.
- Look for early signs of damp patches or discolouration.
Roof, Gutters & Storm Preparation
- Reinspect gutters if heavy rain has caused overflow.
- Check downpipes and soak wells for blockages.
- Inspect roof spaces (if safe to do so) for signs of leaks after significant weather events.
Heating & Safety
- Test smoke alarms and replace batteries.
- Check heating appliances for safe operation.
- Review your home’s insulation performance – poor insulation drives up winter energy costs.
Spring Maintenance: Reset After Winter
Spring is a natural time to refresh and repair areas exposed during colder months.
Indoor Refresh
- Air out the home to reduce moisture build-up from winter.
- Inspect internal walls and ceilings for signs of damp or mould growth.
- Clean vents, fans and filters in preparation for summer.
Exterior & Structural
- Inspect paintwork and external timbers for deterioration.
- Check decks, patios and outdoor structures for movement, swelling or decay.
- Reassess seals, caulking and weatherproofing that may have loosened during winter.
Cooling Preparation
- Service air-conditioning units before hot weather begins.
- Ensure shading and blinds are functional to improve indoor comfort.
Year-Round Preventative Maintenance Every WA Homeowner Should Know
Preventative maintenance protects your home from avoidable damage and is one of the best ways to avoid costly repairs.
Roof & Gutter Health
Roof defects are among the most common issues we find in inspection reports.
- Inspect tiles and metal sheets for cracking, rust or lifting
- Look for debris build-up in valleys
- Ensure gutters and downpipes drain effectively
- Watch for ceiling stains – an early sign of moisture ingress
Moisture Management
Moisture is the root cause of many internal and structural problems.
- Check under sinks, vanities and laundry tubs for leaks
- Inspect external walls for damp patches and efflorescence
- Monitor drainage around the perimeter of the home
- Address blocked or overflowing gutters promptly
Plumbing
Plumbing issues can develop slowly and go unnoticed until significant damage occurs.
- Look for water hammer, low pressure or slow drainage
- Inspect visible pipework for corrosion or drips
- Test hot water system relief valves and check for pooling
Electrical Safety
Only licensed electricians should carry out repairs, but homeowners can perform visual checks:
- Look for cracked power points or switches
- Test safety switches (RCDs) periodically
- Ensure outdoor lighting is weatherproof and functioning
Timber, Pests & Termites
Termite risk remains a concern in many WA suburbs.
- Inspect timber structures for softening or hollow sounds
- Maintain clear visibility between soil and structural timbers
- Keep vegetation and stored timber away from the home
- Schedule regular professional pest inspections
Structural Movement
Seasonal soil changes can cause homes to move.
Watch for:
- Cracks in walls, ceilings or cornices
- Doors and windows that stick or no longer close properly
- Gaps opening between skirting boards and floors
Early intervention helps prevent movement-related defects from worsening.
Common Issues Our Inspectors See in WA Homes
From thousands of inspections across WA, the same problems arise consistently:
- Blocked or undersized gutters causing overflow and internal leaks
- Failed flashing around chimneys, skylights and edges
- Poor drainage leading to damp walls and foundation movement
- Timber decay in decks, pergolas and fascias
- Cracked external seals allowing water into wall cavities
- Condensation issues in modern, airtight homes
- Termite damage in areas with inadequate prevention measures
Understanding how these issues develop helps homeowners stay ahead of them.
When to Call a Building Inspector
A maintenance inspection can provide clarity when:
- You notice cracking, dampness, or movement
- You suspect a roof or drainage issue
- You’re preparing your home for sale
- You’ve purchased a property and want a detailed assessment
- You want peace of mind about long-term maintenance obligations
Our registered inspectors provide clear advice and practical solutions to help homeowners protect their investment.
Need Expert Help?
If you’d like a professional assessment of your home’s condition – or guidance on any issues uncovered during maintenance – our team is here to help.
