The Handbook | Homeowner Education & Maintenance Guides

The Handbook

Practical guides for every stage of homeownership. From seasonal maintenance to property tax appeals, this is the reference library every NW Metro Atlanta homeowner needs.

Seasonal Maintenance

Month-by-month maintenance tasks to keep your home running smoothly through every season in Northwest Georgia.

  • Spring: HVAC tune-up, gutter cleaning, deck inspection
  • Summer: AC filter replacement, pest prevention, irrigation check
  • Fall: Weatherstripping, chimney inspection, leaf gutter guard
  • Winter: Pipe insulation, thermostat settings, emergency kit

Monthly Maintenance Calendar

A simple, printable calendar of what to check, clean, and maintain each month. Never miss a critical task.

  • January: Test smoke detectors, check fire extinguishers
  • April: Service AC before summer, clean dryer vents
  • July: Inspect attic ventilation, check caulking
  • October: Winterize outdoor faucets, service heating

Property Taxes & Appeals

Understanding your property tax assessment in Cobb, Cherokee, Paulding, or Bartow County, and how to appeal if it seems too high.

  • How your assessment is calculated
  • Filing a property tax appeal in Georgia
  • Homestead exemptions you may be missing
  • Key deadlines by county

Insurance Essentials

What your homeowner policy actually covers, when to review it, and common gaps that leave homeowners exposed.

  • What standard HO-3 policies cover (and don't)
  • Flood insurance: when you need it in NW Atlanta
  • How renovations affect your coverage
  • Working with your agent after a claim

Improvements & ROI

Which home improvements actually pay off when you sell, and which ones are just nice to have.

  • Kitchen remodels: what recovers value
  • Bathroom updates vs. full renovations
  • Outdoor living spaces and curb appeal
  • Energy efficiency upgrades that matter to buyers

Emergency Who to Call

When something goes wrong at home, you need answers fast. Here is your go-to list for urgent repairs.

  • Burst pipe or major leak
  • Electrical emergency
  • Storm or tree damage
  • Gas smell or carbon monoxide alarm

Monthly Maintenance Calendar

A simple checklist for every month. Print it, stick it on the fridge, and stay ahead of expensive repairs.

January

  • Test smoke & CO detectors
  • Check fire extinguishers
  • Inspect weatherstripping
  • Clean garbage disposal

February

  • Check attic insulation
  • Service garage door
  • Inspect foundation cracks
  • Cleanrange hood filters

March

  • Schedule HVAC spring tune-up
  • Clean gutters & downspouts
  • Check outdoor drainage
  • Test sump pump

April

  • Service AC before summer
  • Clean dryer vents
  • Power wash siding
  • Inspect deck for damage

May

  • Check irrigation system
  • Seal deck/porch wood
  • Inspect window screens
  • Clean bathroom exhaust fans

June

  • Replace AC filters
  • Check caulking around windows
  • Inspect roof for damage
  • Clean outdoor grill

July

  • Inspect attic ventilation
  • Check pest activity
  • Service kitchen appliances
  • Trim trees near house

August

  • Flush water heater
  • Check washing machine hoses
  • Clean refrigerator coils
  • Inspect walkways for cracks

September

  • Service heating system
  • Check chimney
  • Seal driveway cracks
  • Clean fireplace

October

  • Winterize outdoor faucets
  • Store garden hoses
  • Test backup generator
  • Clean gutters after leaf fall

November

  • Inspect pipe insulation
  • Check attic for drafts
  • Test thermostat settings
  • Clean Holiday light circuits

December

  • Check emergency supplies
  • Inspect holiday decorations wiring
  • Schedule annual home walkthrough
  • Review insurance policy

Emergency: Who to Call

When something goes wrong, you need answers fast. Bookmark this page.

Burst pipe or major leak

Shut off water main, then call a licensed plumber immediately.

Use our Trusted Partners list for vetted plumbers on call 24/7.

Electrical emergency

Do not touch water or wet surfaces. Shut off the breaker panel if safe.

Call 911 for sparks, smoke, or downed lines. Then contact a licensed electrician.

Gas smell or CO alarm

Evacuate immediately. Do not use lights, phones, or anything that can spark.

Call 911 and your gas company from outside the home.

Storm or tree damage

Stay away from downed power lines and damaged structures.

Call 911 if immediate danger, then your insurance agent and a licensed contractor.

Water heater failure

Shut off the water supply valve above the heater.

Contact a licensed plumber. Most can respond same-day for emergencies.