10 Things Every Homeowner Should Keep a Record Of
There's always that one little detail you need but can't quite remember: the paint colour in the hallway, the model number on the washing machine or who to call about the boiler. Keeping a few household records together can make everyday life much easier.
Here are ten useful things to keep track of, whether you've just moved in or have lived in your home for years.
1. Appliance details
Record the make, model and serial number of your main appliances, along with purchase dates and where you keep the manuals. It's particularly handy when you need a replacement part or a repair.
2. Warranties and guarantees
Keep a note of which purchases are still covered, when the cover ends and where the receipt or confirmation email is stored.
3. Paint colours and finishes
Write down the brand, shade, finish and room for each paint you've used. Future touch-ups are much simpler when you don't have to guess which off-white you chose.
4. Utility providers and account references
Keep the names and contact details for your gas, electricity, water, broadband and other providers in one place. Store sensitive account information securely rather than in a document that might be shared with visitors.
5. Important household contacts
Make a short list of people you may need in a hurry, such as your plumber, electrician, landlord or factor, insurer and trusted local tradespeople.
6. Insurance information
Note your home and contents insurance providers, renewal dates and where to find your policy documents. Avoid leaving sensitive policy or login details somewhere publicly accessible.
7. Maintenance dates
Keep track of servicing and maintenance, such as boiler checks, smoke alarm tests, filter replacements and other jobs relevant to your home. Follow the manufacturer's instructions and any applicable safety requirements.
8. Where important things are kept
From the stopcock and fuse box to spare keys and instruction manuals, a simple location guide can save a lot of searching. Keep access and security details private.
9. Pet care information
If you have pets, note their vet's contact details, feeding routine and any instructions someone caring for them might need. A separate pet sitter guide can be useful when you're away.
10. Notes for someone looking after your home
House sitters or trusted family members may need practical information such as bin collection days, appliance instructions and who to contact if something goes wrong. Prepare a shareable version without private passwords or security codes.
A simple way to keep everything together
You don't need a complicated system. A folder, notebook or printable organiser can work beautifully, as long as you know where to find it and remember to update it when things change.
Meet The Home Book
All those useful household details, together in one thoughtfully designed printable. A simple place for the things you never want to forget.
Explore the Home Book on Etsy →