The holiday season is just around the corner, and if you’re planning to host family or friends, now’s the perfect time to get your home looking its best. From quick fixes to a bit of a spruce-up, a few pre-holiday repairs can make all the difference in creating a welcoming space.
If you’re short on time (or let’s face it, patience) for DIY, you’re in luck—there’s a whole network of skilled tradies ready to step in and get things sorted for you. Here’s a handy list of must-do home repairs or handiwork that’ll make your place shine just in time for your holiday guests.
First impressions count, and that starts at your front door. The entryway sets the tone for what’s inside, so make it welcoming.
Door and Lock Checks: Nothing says ‘neglect’ quite like a squeaky or sticky door. A quick once-over to ensure the door opens and closes smoothly, along with any lock repairs, can go a long way. If your lock’s a bit dodgy, calling in a locksmith is a wise move—security is always worth it.
Fresh Coat of Paint: If your front door is looking a little worse for wear, a fresh coat of paint or varnish can add some instant kerb appeal. A professional painter can get it done neatly and in record time, saving you from all that taping and drying.
Lighting Fixtures: As the days get longer and people start arriving after sunset, a well-lit entry is not only warm and inviting but also practical. Flickering porch light? Have an electrician check it out for a reliable, bright glow that’ll make guests feel at home as soon as they arrive.
With more people coming through, your floors are set to be a high-traffic area. Plus, those pesky little creaks and scuffs will only become more noticeable with extra foot traffic.
Squeaky Floorboards: Got a couple of floorboards that groan when you walk on them? A carpenter can help secure them properly, saving you the embarrassment of a squeaky, creaky floor when your guests tiptoe around.
Carpet Refresh or Replacement: If your carpets are looking a bit worn, consider a professional clean. Or, if it’s time, go all out with new carpet in key areas. A carpet layer can make this a hassle-free upgrade that will instantly brighten up the space.
Tile and Grout Touch-Ups: For tiled floors, a deep grout clean or re-grouting can work wonders. If you’re seeing any cracked tiles, now’s a good time to get a tiler in to replace them—no one wants to trip over a jagged edge.
A fresh, clean wall can make a room look instantly newer and brighter. If you’ve got kids or pets, chances are you’ve got some scuffs, chips, or even crayon marks that need attention.
Patch Up Wall Holes: For minor dings and dents, a quick patch-up job can make a big difference. If you’re not up for a DIY job, a handyman can get those little repairs done neatly and quickly.
Accent Walls or Touch-Up Painting: Consider a fresh coat of paint for high-traffic areas like the hallway or lounge. Even just an accent wall can make a space feel polished and on-trend. Painters can help make sure it’s done professionally—no need to deal with messy drips or uneven patches.
With extra people around, your plumbing is about to get a workout. Nothing disrupts a holiday gathering like a blocked loo or slow drain.
Bathroom Plumbing Check: Make sure toilets flush smoothly and aren’t running all day. If there’s a slow drain, now’s the time to get a plumber to sort it out before it becomes a full-blown clog.
Leaky Taps: Got a tap that drips all night? Besides being annoying, it’s a water-waster. A plumber can fix it quickly, saving you water and the frustration of that constant drip.
Hot Water Check: If you’re expecting a house full of guests, the hot water system will be in high demand. Have a tradie inspect it for any signs of trouble, especially if it’s been acting up recently. There’s nothing worse than a cold shower during the festive season!
A lush, tidy garden is the cherry on top of a well-presented home. With just a bit of love, your outdoor space can be a welcoming spot for guests to relax.
Lawn and Hedge Trimming: A neatly trimmed lawn and hedges make a big difference. If you’re not a green thumb or simply don’t have the time, a landscaper can get the job done swiftly.
Clean Outdoor Furniture: Give your outdoor furniture a good scrub, or consider updating with some new cushions. If you need help with setup, a handyman could lend a hand.
Deck and Patio Clean-Up: A pressure wash can make your deck or patio look new again. Alternatively, if you notice any loose boards or nails, a carpenter can do a quick repair to make sure everything’s safe for mingling and relaxing.
From festive lights to the basics, checking your home’s electricals is a must-do to ensure both safety and a pleasant ambience.
Switches and Outlets: Loose or faulty switches can be a hazard, so it’s worth having an electrician look them over. They can also install additional outlets if you’re bringing in extra appliances for the festivities.
Outdoor Lighting: If you’re planning to set up Christmas lights or illuminate your garden, make sure all your outdoor power outlets are safe and working. And if you’d rather skip the setup hassle, an electrician can help with holiday lighting so it’s secure and weather-proof.
Your kitchen is going to be the hub of activity, so it’s wise to make sure it’s in top shape. From cracked tiles to wobbly cupboard doors, fixing these details can make cooking and entertaining a breeze.
Cabinet Repairs: If you’ve got a cupboard door that’s hanging loose or a drawer that’s hard to open, a carpenter can get them back in shape so they work smoothly.
Bench Top Spruce-Up: If your kitchen counter has seen better days, you might consider resurfacing or even a small refresh. It can be more budget-friendly than a full replacement and still gives a ‘like-new’ finish.
Exhaust Fan Check: With all the cooking that comes with the holidays, make sure your rangehood or exhaust fan is up to the task. An electrician can service it so it works efficiently and keeps the kitchen fresh.
The smallest touches can create a big impression and make your home feel welcoming and well-loved.
Door Handles and Locks: Tighten up any loose handles or wobbly locks. These details are easy to overlook but can make a difference when guests arrive.
Curtains and Blinds: Dust or wash your curtains, or give blinds a good clean. If any are broken, a handyman can help with repairs or replacements.
Check the Air Conditioning: If your A/C’s been working overtime, it might need a quick clean or service to make sure it’s running smoothly for guests. A professional air-con technician can handle this efficiently and make sure everyone stays cool.
Between wrapping gifts, planning meals, and sorting guest arrangements, your holiday to-do list is long enough. Getting these home repairs and touch-ups out of the way will not only give you peace of mind but also ensure your place looks and feels inviting. If you’re pressed for time or simply want to get the job done right, hiring a tradie is a smart choice.
From painters and carpenters to plumbers and electricians, skilled professionals can make all the difference. So, check out ServiceSeeking.com.au to find the help you need and tick off those home repairs with ease—just in time for the holidays.