The adage out of sight out of mind doesn’t work when it comes to maintaining your attic. From possibly harboring pest nests to avoiding water damage, attics need an occasional look-see so that you don’t get boggled by a nasty surprise.

An ill-maintained attic can suffer severe water damage stemming leaking pipes, broken down roof drains, missing roofing components, or leaks around window frames. In addition, a forgotten appliance may have started leaking, and that will contribute to rot and mold formation. Before you’re compelled to do an expensive repair, take a look at your attic and inspect the following:

• Inspect your roof for missing tiles, shingles or whatever roofing material your house may be using. Since vents are usually placed at the peak of a roof, inspect the pipes and area where they are protruding. Signs to watch out for include corrosion, cracks, and drips under the eaves where

A sewer backup is caused by the sewer system being clogged or overwhelmed somewhere along the line. The restriction may not necessarily be within you promises but when it affects your abode, then it’s something that cannot be ignored. Sewer backups can be man made, or caused by nature. Here are some major causes:

• Old sewer lines, whether mains or individual runs coming from a house, can break. Once their integrity is compromised, soil or other debris can fill the line, causing a flow stoppage. Tree roots can also cause sewer lines to break and become clogged. Keep an eye on trees that are growing near sewer lines. Over time, their roots can become entangled with the sewer pipes.
• Heavy rain can overwhelm the main sewer line, and not just in your area but all over a city. When this happens, sewers will backup and black water can inundate your