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Diamond Certified Category Report

Santa Clara County – Home Maintenance Program

HPS Palo Alto, Inc.

(888) 844-0007

LICENSE 782552

DIAMOND CERTIFIED COMPANY REPORT

Steve Spratt, Owner

HPS Palo Alto, Inc. believes every home should serve as a sanctuary to live, rest and reenergize. The company’s Stewardship subscription service is designed to make that happen. It is a strategy and a new way of thinking for a better… Read more

Key Services

Home Repairs, Maintenance & Preservation Independent Project Management Consultation & Testing: Construction, Remodeling, Environment &…

AREAS SERVED

Serving All of the Mid-Peninsula, From San Francisco to Pebble Beach

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Why Trust Diamond Certified Home Maintenance Programs Rated Highest in Quality?

Only the best home maintenance programs in Santa Clara County have earned the Diamond Certified award by scoring Highest in Quality in the most accurate and rigorous ratings process anywhere. You’ll never be fooled by fake reviews, since all research is performed by live telephone interviews that verify only real customers are surveyed. Most companies can’t pass this test. That’s why you’ll feel confident when you choose a Diamond Certified home maintenance program listed below. Simply click on the name of a Diamond Certified company below to read ratings results, informational articles and verbatim customer survey responses.

Thousands of customers of local companies have been interviewed in live telephone calls, and only companies that score Highest in Quality in customer satisfaction–a 90+ on a 100 scale–as well as pass all of the credential-based ratings earn Diamond Certified. By requiring such a high score to qualify, the Diamond Certified program cuts out mediocre and poorly performing companies. If you want quality, you’ll have confidence in choosing Diamond Certified companies. And you’re backed by the Diamond Certified Performance Guarantee.

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DIAMOND CERTIFIED EXPERT CONTRIBUTORS IN THE Santa Clara County – Home Maintenance Program CATEGORY

Steve Spratt is president of HPS Palo Alto, Inc., a Diamond Certified company since 2011. He can be reached at (888) 844-0007.

Steve Spratt

diamond certified contributor profile and expert article

Steve Spratt: A Passion for Preservation

By James Florence, Diamond Certified Program Reporter

LOS ALTOS — As owner of HPS Palo Alto, Inc., Steve Spratt has made a livelihood of maintaining Bay Area residences. However, when it comes to putting a label on his company’s service, he’s quick to distinguish it from the contiguous field of property management. “Our name stands for Home Preservation Services, and we like to think we provide a ‘stewardship service,’” he explains. “Unlike property managers, who tend to wait until things break before fixing them, we promote the ongoing health of our clients’ homes through regular maintenance visits. By proactively identifying potential problems, we can bring them to a homeowner’s attention and address them before an expensive catastrophe occurs.”

Steve hasn’t always been in the home preservation business; rather, he began his professional life behind a desk. “I graduated from college with a business degree and went into accounting, but I didn’t really enjoy working in an office setting every day,” he says. “So, when my wife’s father, who was a general contractor, asked me to work for him, I agreed. Later, while I was building custom homes, a couple of my clients said they wished they had my expertise when it came to taking care of their homes after the fact. That got me thinking about a way I could make a business out of home maintenance, and pretty soon, HPS Palo Alto was born.”

As a resident of Palo Alto (where he lives with his wife, Italy), Steve says he appreciates the wide range of people his work brings him into contact with. “I have clients who are involved in all kinds of fields, from professional athletes and coaches to renowned authors and Nobel Prize winners. Getting a chance to meet and get to know these people is very fun and inspiring.”

Outside of work, Steve is an avid audio enthusiast who spends much of his time enjoying his sizeable music collection. “I love jazz music, and I collect records and vintage Hi-Fi equipment,” he says. “I recently sold a collection of more than 14,000 records, which is about the same size as the collection I kept.” When he’s not at home listening to music, Steve often accompanies his wife in her livelihood as a rodeo rider. “Italy is a professional rodeo participant, so that keeps us pretty busy on the weekends with all the traveling and competing.” Additionally, Steve takes time to keep in touch with his four grown daughters, one of whom works at HPS Palo Alto.

When asked about a personal philosophy, Steve cites a phrase coined by writer Joseph Campbell. “One of Campbell’s famous quotes is, ‘Follow your bliss,’ and I think my whole life is a result of doing just that,” he says. “When I got out of school, I was trained as an accountant, but that didn’t really excite or stimulate me—I just happened to be good at numbers. However, it did lead me to relationships that eventually got me into the building business, which then led me to where I am today. So, I feel like my whole life is an example of following your bliss and allowing that energy to draw you to where you can perform at your highest level.”

When asked the first thing he’d do if he were to retire tomorrow, Steve says he’d spend more time listening to music—that is, after tackling a long-deferred building project. “My wife wants me to build her a new barn, and I haven’t had time to get to it yet, so I’d probably do that first. Then, I’d set up a permanent listening room for my jazz records, as well as get connected with other audiophiles and just share the enjoyment of music.”

Ask Me Anything!

Q: Do you have a favorite jazz artist?
A: That’s a tough choice. The history of jazz is full of innovative figures like Charlie Parker, John Coltrane and Duke Ellington, but I think I’d have to go with Louis Armstrong. Besides being one of the great musical innovators, he was an unbelievable guy, with a sense of humility I wish more performers would emulate.

Q: If you could immediately master a musical instrument, what would you choose?
A: I really admire trumpeters and how they can make such a wide range of sounds simply by blowing through a piece of metal. However, I’d probably go with piano, just because it’s so versatile.

Q: What’s your favorite thing to do on a rainy day?
A: Throw on a record and make some chamomile tea.

Q: What’s the best gift you’ve ever received?
A: My dog, Bella. My wife got her for me, and she’s been my buddy and traveling companion ever since.

Q: What are your favorite TV shows?
A: “Dancing with the Stars”—which I watch with my wife—and “Ancient Aliens.”

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How to Prevent Efflorescence on Masonry Surfaces

By Steve Spratt of {BR} HPS Palo Alto, Inc.

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PALO ALTO — Have you noticed white, powdery blotches on a stone, concrete, or tile surface in or around your home? This phenomenon is known as efflorescence, a common blight that can affect any masonry surface. Efflorescence is seen most often in… Read more

How to Keep Your Washing Machine Mildew-Free

by Steve Spratt, a Diamond Certified Expert Contributor

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LOS ALTOS — Modern front-loading washing machines offer several benefits: In addition to their sleek design, they’re more energy- and water-efficient than their top-loading predecessors. Plus, clothes come out of the spin cycle nearly dry, which reduces dryer runtime. However, there’s one… Read more

The Importance of Gutter Maintenance

by Steve Spratt, a Diamond Certified Expert Contributor

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LOS ALTOS — There are areas in every home where proactive maintenance is critical for preventing water damage. One of these areas is the rain gutter and downspout system. Few homeowners realize that malfunctioning gutter and downspout systems are one of biggest… Read more

Expert Video Tip

Video: Tips for a Mold-Free Washing Machine

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Complete Video Transcription:

LOS ALTOS — Host, Sarah Rutan: If you own a front-load washing machine, there are a few preventative steps you should take to avoid mold issues. Today we’re… Read more

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INDUSTRY INFORMATION AND RESEARCHED ARTICLES BY THE DIAMOND CERTIFIED RESOURCE

INDUSTRY INFORMATION - Santa Clara County – Home Maintenance Program
Consumer Resources for More Information about Home Maintenance Programs

Contractors State License Board (CSLB) (http://www.cslb.ca.gov/)
California Department of Consumer Affairs (DCA) (www.dca.ca.gov)

Know What You Want
Consider Your Needs for Home Maintenance Services

Just as not all home maintenance programs in Santa Clara County offer the same services and expertise, not all clients need the same attention. Now is the time for you to consider your needs and make a list of your expectations.

Having specific goals that you’ve identified and written down will help you discuss your needs with local home maintenance companies and will keep you on track as you weigh your options. Here are some questions to answer before you begin your search. Write down your answers and keep your list handy as you interview contractors.

1.     Do I want a Diamond Certified home maintenance service that is rated best in quality and backed by the Diamond Certified Performance Guarantee?

2.     Why am I considering hiring a home maintenance program? (Reasons may include aging or inability to maintain your own home, home maintenance and repairs for elderly parents, too busy to maintain and repair your home’s structure and systems, unfamiliarity with home systems and general maintenance, wanting a professional to ensure your home is safe and in good repair, to maintain your home’s value, home maintenance checks for rental or investment properties, etc.)

3.     What home maintenance services do I need  or want (seasonal inspections, monthly inspections, home efficiency upgrades, home system inspections and maintenance, appliance maintenance, exterior home maintenance, interior home maintenance, winterizing, safety equipment maintenance and inspection, etc.)?

4.     What is my budget for my home maintenance services?

5.     Are there any specifics the home maintenance contractors should know upfront? (i.e. an older home with older systems, a new home that needs minimal upkeep, tenants or renters living in the home, scheduling difficulties, systems or appliances that are currently failing or aging, preexisting damage or repair issues, etc.)

6.     What professional qualities and characteristics do I want from my Santa Clara County home maintenance company and its employees? These may include timeliness, cleanliness, good communication skills, knowledge base, experience, and follow-up service.

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What To Ask In Person
Meet with Home Maintenance Contractors or Answers to Your Remaining Questions

After you’ve conducted a few phone interviews with local home maintenance service representatives from Gilroy, Cupertino, Campbell, Palo Alto, Milpitas and your area, you should get a feel for whether the companies you’ve called can meet your needs and whether a few of them stand out from the rest.

Now, make arrangements for walk-through meetings at your home or the property for which you’re seeking home maintenance services. This is a good time to ask more detailed questions, learn more about the home maintenance services and their contacts and programs, and let the home maintenance service personnel view your property.

Again, have a written list of questions so each company has the chance to answer the same questions, and take notes so you can recall which company was the best fit for you

1.     Tell me about the home maintenance program plans available to me.

2.     What services does each entail or include?

3.     Which plan or services do you recommend for my home?

4.     Why? (You may hear answers such as, “Based on the age of your home and home systems,” “Because of the impact the weather and microclimate have on homes in this area of Santa Clara County,” or “Regular inspections at this interval can prevent damage and wear.” Make sure the answer you get makes sense.)

5.     How often will you inspect and maintain my home? (This may be flexible based on the plans available.)

6.     Do you offer additional services or a la carte services that I can add to the basic plans, or do you provide the same range of services for all clients?

7.     Will you want me on site while you are performing the inspections and repairs?

8.     If not, how do you arrange access to the home?

9.     Who will be providing the inspections, maintenance and repairs?

10.  What if my home needs major repairs or renovations? Will you provide those, or will you recommend another contractor?

11.  How do you bill for your services?

12.  How long do your contracts run? Do I have to renew every year, or are they automatically renewed unless I cancel?

13.  Do you have a list of recent customer references that I can call?

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  • What To Ask References
    Interview Home Maintenance Customers About Their Experiences

    It’s best to choose among Diamond Certified home maintenance programs in Santa Clara County and your area because all certified companies have passed an in-depth ratings process that most other companies can’t pass.

    If you want quality from a home maintenance program contractor in Santa Clara County and the greater Bay Area, you can have confidence choosing a Diamond Certified company. Diamond Certified reports are available online for all certified companies. In addition, you’ll never have to worry about being fooled by fake reviews. That’s because all research is performed in live telephone interviews of actual customers.

    If you can’t find Diamond Certified home maintenance program contractor within reach, you’ll have to do some research on your own. It’s wise to call some client references provided by your home maintenance program.

    As you do, keep in mind that references provided to you by home maintenance companies are not equal in value to the large random sample of customers surveyed during the Diamond Certified ratings process. References given to customers from companies are usually hand-picked instead of randomly selected from their entire customers database, so the home maintenance services in San Jose, Sunnyvale, Santa Clara, Mountain View and Milpitas and the rest of Santa Clara County will likely give you a few customers to call that they know are satisfied.

    If you do call customer references on your own, ask for a list of the company’s 10 most recent customers. This will help avoid them giving you the names of only customers they know were satisfied. Then formulate a list of questions to ask and take notes.

    Here are some questions you may want to ask:

    1.     Were you satisfied with the service from _(Santa Clara County home maintenance company name)_?

    2.     What was the type and scope of job they did for you (monthly home inspections, annual home inspections, home winterizing services, home appliance inspection and maintenance, inspection and annual maintenance of major home systems, etc.)?

    3.     Were the home maintenance providers prompt and personable?

    4.     Did the company representative communicate well with you about home maintenance program services and options?

    5.     Did they help you find the home inspection and maintenance services that you needed?

    6.     Did the home maintenance contractor explain to you the status of the inspection, maintenance and repair work?

    7.     Did they complete the inspection and work on time?

    8.     Were there additional costs above and beyond what you expected? If so, what were the charges for and were they avoidable?

    9.     Did the Santa Clara County home maintenance companies charge extra to travel to your home if you live in a smaller town such as Saratoga, Stanford, Alviso, Coyote, Campbell, New Almaden, Monte Vista?

    10.  Would you recommend this home maintenance program to friends or family?

    11.  What was the best part about working with this home maintenance program provider?

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  • Review Your Options
    Find Good Home Maintenance Program Contractors in Santa Clara County

    The Diamond Certified symbol has been awarded to companies that scored Highest in Quality in an accurate ratings process.

    Before deciding on the best home maintenance program contractor in Santa Clara County for you, it’s important to consider the following questions. Review your notes, think back to your meetings with local home maintenance program providers, and see if you can conclude which company is the best fit for you.

    1.     Is there a home maintenance program on your list that can meet your needs for home maintenance plans, services, and customer support?

    2.     Are the Santa Clara County home maintenance program staff knowledgeable about which services and home maintenance plans you need? Can they easily explain to you which services best fit your needs?

    3.     Is there a company that’s able to be flexible and sensitive to your budget? Can they give you varying home maintenance program packages that address your needs and match your resources?

    4.     Did one company come more highly recommended, or have a better record of caring for clients and their homes?

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  • How To Work With
    What To Do Before You Hire a Home Maintenance Program Contractor

    Santa Clara County homeowners contract the services of home maintenance programs to help them maintain their homes. Whether it’s to save them time, prevent major repairs by fixing small problems, keep major appliances and home systems functioning well, or offer regular inspections to ensure the home is structurally sound and in good repair, smart homeowners know that hiring the right home maintenance service company can save them money and keep their home in good condition.

    When you’re looking to choose a home maintenance program company in Sunnyvale, San Jose, Campbell, Gilroy, Morgan Hill or the rest of Santa Clara County, start by knowing why you are seeking such services and what you expect from your providers. Then, learn as much as you can about your options, including home maintenance program packages, benefits, requirements and protections for you.

    Talk with your home insurance company to learn if you may qualify for a discount on your homeowners insurance. Some companies offer discounts for customers who proactively maintain their homes, or customers who have their home maintenance company report to their insurance provider. It’s also smart to learn if the manufacturers of your major home appliances and home systems require certain routine maintenance to keep product guarantees and warranties in effect. If so, you will want to confirm that your Santa Clara County home maintenance providers can offer the services that will qualify your appliances and home systems for warranty protection or extended warranties.

    Convince the Staff of the Best Home Maintenance Programs to Want to Work with You
    How can you be the kind of homeowner that the best home maintenance services want to work with? See the tips below.

    • Prove you are looking for the best value, not just the lowest price. Many people start their discussions with contractors by asking about price, not value. You can show your interest in quality and value by asking questions about inspection methods, home maintenance program coverage, repair methods and techniques, warranties and lasting value rather than price alone.
    • Be honest if you’re interviewing multiple companies. It’s your prerogative to learn about your options and find the best Santa Clara County home maintenance program provider for your needs. However, be smart and only consider carefully-selected companies that offer quality work and good protection for your home. Don’t accept more than three to five bids—too many options can cloud your vision and actually prevent you from making an expedient decision.
    • Talk with your home maintenance program representative about your goals, and outline your expectations. Give clear directions, and discuss exactly what you want done and every specific direction or request you have. This will allow them to give you the most accurate bid possible, help you choose the correct plan for you, and gives them insight into exactly what you want from your home maintenance program. If they can’t provide what you need or want, it’s better to find out before you’ve signed a contract.
    • Interview and choose among local home maintenance programs in Santa Clara County, including those in San Jose, Santa Clara, Mountain View, Milpitas, Palo Alto, Cupertino, Gilroy, Campbell and Morgan Hill, Blossom Valley, Holy City, Los Altos Hills, Permanente, Redwood Estates and beyond. Most home maintenance services prefer to work within a specific radius, since a limited service area this allows them to provide faster service, reliable inspections, and faster repairs without having to travel a long distance to take care of their customers.

    Steps to Take Once You’ve Found a Good Santa Clara County Home Maintenance Provider
    Once you’ve done your research and located a home maintenance service that meets your needs and expectations, it’s time to sign a contract for services.

    Whether you live in Milpitas, Palo Alto, Cupertino, San Jose, Sunnyvale, Gilroy or anywhere else in Santa Clara County and the Greater Bay Area, insist on a contract that protects you and your home maintenance program provider. Good contracts include details about the home maintenance program (including frequency and length of inspections, systems and appliances to be inspected, interior and exterior inspection details, repair allowances, additional fees, and additional program features), any materials and products to be used, payment terms, maintenance program terms, expectations for both you and your program provider, details about who will provide the services, the expected time line for repair jobs in relation to inspections, and any warranties and guarantees that will cover the work.

    Your Santa Clara County home maintenance program service representative should provide the contract to you and allow you to read through it and ask any questions you may have before signing the contract. This agreement protects you, your property and the contractor, so it’s important that you understand all terms and exclusions and that you never sign an incomplete or blank estimate or contract.

    If there are items you verbally agreed upon, write in those terms so they are reflected in the contract you sign. This will protect you in the event that the company representative with whom you sign the original contract isn’t the employee who provides your services in the future.

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  • Be a Good Customer
    How Can You Be a Good Home Maintenance Program Customer?

    Your home maintenance program contractor will be the one to inspect, repair and maintain your home, inside and out. But you also play a big part in the success of your working relationship.

    Here are a few steps you can take to be a good customer when hiring Santa Clara County home maintenance programs in Gilroy, Cupertino, Campbell, Palo Alto, Milpitas and your area.

    • Be clear and honest with the home maintenance program representative. Let them know what you want from your home maintenance program, the long-term outcome you’re expecting and specific ways they can satisfy your expectations along the way.
    • A smile and a polite attitude can help diffuse tense situations and keep your working relationship strong even if you experience frustration or a disagreement.
    • Before you sign a contract with a home maintenance program in Santa Clara County, restate your expectations and goals, and reiterate to the company representative your understanding of the agreement. Most problems with local home maintenance program contractors occur because of a breakdown in communication. Being clear about your expectations and theirs can help you avoid most conflicts and misunderstandings.
    • Ask your home maintenance program representative if you should call to check on the findings of your home inspections and the progress any needed repairs, or if they will call you with updates.
    • Be sure the company has a phone number where they can reach you at all times while they’re acting as your home maintenance program provider. The work will move along more smoothly if questions come up or work authorizations are needed.
    • Return calls promptly.
    • Pay for the home maintenance program services and work promptly.
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Check The Work
Review the Home Maintenance Services Provided

You may be invoiced monthly, quarterly, annually or as services are rendered. The timing of invoices and amount should be covered in your contract. Invoices from your Santa Clara County home maintenance program provider should include the following:

  • The home maintenance program company name, physical address and license number.
  • A complete list of all services rendered.
  • An itemized list of all materials used if repairs are made.
  • The total cost for the home maintenance program services, including the itemized amount charged for labor.
  • A written explanation of any warranties or guarantees.
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Written Warranties
Written Warranties for Home Maintenance Services Protect You

The following items should be included in any written guarantee document:

  • The Santa Clara County home maintenance program provider’s name, physical address and state license number.
  • A description of what exactly the warranty covers. This should include whether the contractor will provide additional services, or repair or replace any unsatisfactory materials or workmanship.
  • Any exclusions to the guarantee must be explicitly stated.
  • Your responsibility in the case of a problem or disagreement and what you need to do in order to redeem the warranty.
  • How long the warranty is valid, and whether it expires on a specific day or is prorated.
  • If the warranty coverage is transferable if you sell the home or commercial building in which the work was done.
  • Any actions on your part that may invalidate the warranty.
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Top 10 Requests
Home Maintenance Program Services Requested in Santa Clara County and Beyond

What services can local home maintenance programs offer you?

The following are some services you can expect to receive from home maintenance programs in San Jose, Sunnyvale, Santa Clara, Mountain View and Milpitas and throughout Santa Clara County and the Greater Bay Area. Keep in mind that most home maintenance providers offer various packages and services based on their capabilities and their customers’ needs. Talk with your local companies to learn more about what’s available to you.

Home Inspections
Home inspections ensure homes are in good repair and identify needed maintenance times and repairs. Most Santa Clara County home maintenance program providers offer regular home inspections for interiors and exteriors to make sure homes are in good repair and identify areas that need upkeep or repairs. Some companies even offer inspections of major home appliances and systems (such as HVAC, electrical and plumbing systems) to verify they are functioning safely and properly.

Winterizing / Weatherizing Services
Winterizing and weatherizing services can include gutter cleaning, insulation, sealing cracks and gaps in exterior walls, upgrading windows and other home efficiency features, waterproofing, roof inspections, cold weather protection and more. These services protect homes during the colder and rainier months, preventing damage from winter storms and keeping winter heating costs lower.

Energy Efficiency Upgrades
Some Santa Clara County home maintenance companies in Sunnyvale, San Jose, Campbell, Gilroy, Morgan Hill, San Martin, East Palo Alto, Los Gatos, Monte Sereno, Permanente and other areas offer energy efficiency upgrades. These may include installation of energy efficiency devices including timers, programmable thermostats and motion sensors, and the installation or service of energy efficient lighting, energy efficient windows, insulation and more.

Seasonal Maintenance
Various seasons require maintenance and preparation. Some home maintenance programs offer seasonal visits to inspect your home for needed maintenance and repair, and to ready homes for the unique features of each season. This may include winterizing, rain protection, heat protection, leaf removal and gutter cleanout, and more.

Preventative Home Maintenance
As homes are lived in and as they age, items need to be repaired, replaced and upgraded. Preventative home maintenance services can prevent damage and larger repairs by finding and fixing small problems before they get bigger. This includes exterior preventative maintenance to roofing, decks, home foundations, siding, windows and more; and interior maintenance to major home appliances, home systems, flooring, windows, walls, fixtures and more.

Home System and Appliance Maintenance
Home systems such as plumbing, electrical, and heating and cooling systems, and major appliances need routine maintenance to keep them running at peak performance. Some appliances even require regular maintenance to ensure the validity of warranties and extended guarantees. Some Santa Clara County home maintenance contractors in San Jose, Santa Clara, Mountain View, Milpitas, Palo Alto, Cupertino, Gilroy, Campbell and Morgan Hill and other areas are able to check out home systems and appliances for wear, damage, and other problems that can be addressed or repaired before the entire system or appliance needs to be replaced.

Home Repairs
When damage or wear and tear is found, home repairs are often required to fix the problem. Most home maintenance companies offer some general home repairs and maintenance. Larger repairs, major system or appliance repairs, and specialty repairs may need to be referred to contractors who have more experience with those certain repairs.

Safety Equipment Inspections, Maintenance and Repairs
Checking and maintaining safety equipment including smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors and fire extinguishers, is a service many Santa Clara County home maintenance program providers offer. Most provide this service on a semi-annual or annual basis to meet manufacturer requirements or city or state laws. Talk with your Santa Clara County home maintenance service about these services to keep your family and home safe.

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Glossary Of Terms
Glossary of Terms Related to Home Maintenance Programs

energy efficiency upgrades
Some home maintenance companies offer energy efficiency upgrades. These may include installation of energy efficiency devices including timers, programmable thermostats and motion sensors, and the installation or service of energy efficient lighting, energy efficient windows, insulation and more.

Also known as: home efficiency audits, home energy efficiency inspections

home inspections
Home inspections ensure homes are in good repair and identify needed maintenance times and repairs. Most good home maintenance program providers offer regular home inspections for interiors and exteriors to make sure homes are in good repair and identify areas that need upkeep or repairs. Some companies even offer inspections of major home appliances and systems to verify they are functioning safely and properly.

Also known as: interior home inspection, exterior home inspection, home maintenance inspection

home maintenance program
Home maintenance programs are services offered to homeowners to help them maintain the value and physical structure of their home through regular inspections, preventative maintenance, home repairs and general upkeep services.

Also known as: home maintenance services

home repairs
When damage or wear and tear is found, home repairs are often required to fix the problem. Most home maintenance companies offer some general home repairs and maintenance. Larger repairs, major system or appliance repairs, and specialty repairs may need to be referred to contractors who have more experience with those certain repairs.

Also known as: repairs, renovations

home system and appliance maintenance
Home systems such as plumbing, electrical, and heating and cooling systems, and major appliances need routine maintenance to keep them running at peak performance. Some appliances even require regular maintenance to ensure the validity of warranties and extended guarantees. Some home maintenance contractors are able to check out home systems and appliances for wear, damage, and other problems that can be addressed or repaired before the entire system or appliance needs to be replaced.

Also known as: major appliance inspection, major appliance maintenance, routine maintenance for home appliances, home system maintenance

preventative home maintenance
As homes are lived in and as they age, items need to be repaired, replaced and upgraded. Preventative home maintenance services can prevent damage and larger repairs by finding and fixing small problems before they get bigger. This includes exterior preventative maintenance to roofing, decks, home foundations, siding, windows and more; and interior maintenance to major home appliances, home systems, flooring, windows, walls, fixtures and more.

Also known as:

safety equipment maintenance
Checking and maintaining safety equipment including smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors and fire extinguishers, is a service many good home maintenance program providers offer. Most provide this service on a semi-annual or annual basis to meet manufacturer requirements or city or state laws.

Also known as: safety equipment inspections, home safety equipment repairs

seasonal maintenance
Various seasons require maintenance and preparation. Some home maintenance programs offer seasonal visits to inspect your home for needed maintenance and repair, and to ready homes for the unique features of each season. This may include winterizing, rain protection, heat protection, leaf removal and gutter cleanout, and more.

Also known as: winterizing, seasonal home inspections

winterizing
Winterizing and weatherizing services can include gutter cleaning, insulation, sealing cracks and gaps in exterior walls, upgrading windows and other home efficiency features, waterproofing, roof inspections, cold weather protection and more. These services protect homes during the colder and rainier months, preventing damage from winter storms and keeping winter heating costs lower.

Also known as: weatherizing, home winterizing, winterizing services

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Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ About Home Maintenance Programs and Services

Q: Why choose Diamond Certified home maintenance program contractors?
A: Diamond Certified helps you choose a home maintenance program contractor with confidence by offering a list of top-rated local companies who have passed the country’s most in-depth rating process. Only home maintenance program contractor rated Highest in Quality earn the prestigious Diamond Certified award. Most companies can’t pass the ratings. American Ratings Corporation also monitors every Diamond Certified company with ongoing research and ratings. And your purchase is backed by the Diamond Certified Performance Guarantee. So you’ll feel confident choosing a Diamond Certified home maintenance program contractor.

Q: What can home maintenance programs do for me and my home?
A: Home maintenance services offer a variety of services to meet their clients’ needs and fit their technicians’ expertise. Most offer the following basic services along with specialized services.

  • home inspections to ensure the home is in good repair and to identify needed maintenance times and repairs
  • seasonal maintenance
  • preventative maintenance
  • home repairs
  • maintaining home systems and appliances (including HVAC systems, plumbing and electrical systems, and major kitchen appliances)
  • checking and maintaining safety equipment including smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors and fire extinguishers
  • installing energy efficiency devices (including timers, programmable thermostats, motion sensors, and energy efficient lighting)
  • winterizing and weatherizing
  • performing other requested tasks, including specific maintenance and upkeep requests

Q: How often will home maintenance services visit my home?
A: Depending on their available services and the contract you sign, local home maintenance services will visit your home monthly, quarterly, biannually, annually or on another schedule you’ve requested. Monthly visits may include regular checks of the home’s main systems, appliances and other areas. Small repairs may be done during the visit or scheduled for a later time. Quarterly and biannual visits may include an inspection, weatherizing or winterizing, repairs, and more. Annual checks may be longer visits that include repairs, annual maintenance, winterizing or other services. Talk with home maintenance providers near you to learn about their specific plans, abilities and recommendations for your home.

Q: How long do visits from home maintenance contractors last?
A: Regular visits may last anywhere from an hour to and entire day, depending on the type of appointment, the regularity with which you schedule inspections and maintenance visits, the work that needs to be done, and the size of your home.

Q: What if repairs are needed?
A: Home maintenance program companies offer varying contracts for repairs. However, many will provide small repairs (usually within a certain amount of time or scope) for free within the scope of your contract. Larger repairs may need to be bidded by in-house or auxiliary contractors. Your home maintenance company can give you details of exactly what repairs are included and which will be billed separately.

Q: Should I consider enrolling in a home maintenance program even if my home is new?
A: Yes. Old and new homes require many of the same maintenance and upkeep services. Additionally, regular maintenance can keep your new home in good repair for decades to come. Some manufacturers of appliances and home systems require routine maintenance as part of their warranty programs, and home maintenance programs can keep your warranties valid.

Q: Will home maintenance programs bundle their services for cost savings?
A: Yes, most routine maintenance companies do offer bundles, packages and a la carte choices to tailor their home maintenance services to their clients’ needs. Choices may include preselected packages, bundles of popular services, and individual services that clients can add to packages or basic plans. Talk with your home maintenance company about packages and services that fit your needs and your budget.

Q: Do I need to be home for my maintenance visit?
A: It’s most likely not necessary for you to be home while your home maintenance program contractor visits your home. You may want to be present to let in the contractor, or for the initial visit. However, once routine appointments begin, you may choose to give a key or access code to your home maintenance company so they can send a representative to inspect and maintain your home while you’re at work or out. There is usually no reason for you to be on-site during the visit.

Q: What’s the difference between a home warranty program and a home maintenance program?
A: Warranties pay you back in the event of a system failure or appliance failure. Home maintenance programs help keep your systems and appliances running well and can extend the life of your home’s equipment so you don’t have to replace them.

Q: Is the expense of a home maintenance program contract worth it?
A: While you are the only one who can decide what makes sense for you, many consumers will agree that, yes, home maintenance program fees are worth the expense. Depending on your needs, values, budget and requirements, home maintenance programs can help prolong the life of your home structure, systems and appliances. They can repair small problems before larger, more expensive repairs are needed. Many homeowners like having the peace of mind that comes with regular home inspections and repairs. Packages that include winterizing, weatherizing, home efficiency upgrades and more can save you money over the long run and keep your home looking better and more comfortable. Many home maintenance companies offer short-term contracts, trials and more information to help you make a smart decision regarding your needs and the ongoing maintenance needs of your home.

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