As homeowners, we are all tasked with maintenance. This may include everything from HVAC systems and electrical to appliances and other issues such as roof repair. We do what we have to do—all the services, repairs, and upkeep—to keep our homes running smoothly. However, we all seem to approach these tasks differently.
In recent consumer survey data from Frontdoor, Inc.*, it was shown that America’s home maintenance tendencies, habits and beliefs vary from generation to generation and by location.
We’ve put together a summary of findings based on regions. Take a look. How do you compare?
Do you handle home maintenance tasks yourself?
If so, you’re not alone. In the survey, when asked who handles the home repair maintenance needs in the house, and 69% of respondents said they or their partner did. When you include other members of the household such as parents, grandparents, and children, that percentage shot up to 92%. It should be noted that “handling” the repair and doing it yourself are two separate statistics. For example, someone may handle an HVAC breakdown by calling in a professional.
of all homeowners’ household members handle repairs themselves
The survey found that homeowners in the Northeast are more likely to handle home maintenance tasks compared to those in the Southeast who are more likely to have their parents help them with these tasks.
What about DIY maintenance?
When your fridge goes on the fritz or your dryer stops drying, do you make the repairs yourself? Most people do not. For many appliance and system breakdowns – toilets, doorbells, garage door openers, dishwasher, plumbing, refrigerator, oven, HVAC – most homeowners don’t feel confident or safe enough to make the repair themselves.
Who repairs their own plumbing?
Homeowners in the Southwest feel more capable of fixing issues with their plumbing, like leaky faucets, compared to the average homeowner, while the Midwest feels the reverse and were less likely than the average homeowner to feel safe fixing their own plumbing.
Nearly half of all homeowners agree that they have all the tools to maintain their homes but, ironically, they also feel overwhelmed by the maintenance their home requires.
have all the tools to maintain home
of homeowners admit feeling overwhelmed by the maintenance their home requires of them.
Do you procrastinate on home repairs?
Of course it’s a rhetorical question, we pretty much all do. After all, there are better things to do than fixing a broken washer. Among homeowners across America, a whopping 84%, agree that they tend to procrastinate when it comes to their home repair needs
of all homeowners procrastinate on addressing home repair needs
Most respondents felt they would much rather spend time doing something they enjoy. Some survey participants also claimed a lack of time as a culprit.
Is smart technology being used in your home?
Smart technology is revolutionizing home operations and maintenance across America. The biggest benefit of smart home technology is the ability to fully manage your household household by digitally managing chores, scheduling tasks, and setting preferences. Tasks such as adjusting lights, controlling temperature, changing filters, monitoring plumbing and electrical systems, and operating appliances can be easily managed through a smartphone or voice commands.
of homeowners consider themselves new technology early adopters
America has taken notice too – 94% of homeowners consider themselves early adopters of the this new technology. And 63% believe that technology can facilitate better connection and communication with contractors, to help streamline the process of household repairs and maintenance.
Who already has smart home technology?
The future of smart technology in home maintenance in our homes will continue to grow. More than half of all homeowners believe if they had more access to technology and media, they’d be better equipped to fix issues in their homes.
Is a home repair expert(s) on your speed dial?
Sooner or later we all need expert help with our home repairs, even for tried-and-true DIYers. That’s why most people have a handyman, plumber, electrician, or HVAC professional on their call list, someone they can trust.
Who most likely has a plumber on call?
Overall, the survey found, America trusts the opinions of their experts. That being said, they’re still always on the lookout for an available repair person.
of homeowners trust their repair person’s opinion
Northeast homeowners are the most likely to trust their expert’s opinion.
Additionally, homeowners from the Northeast are more likely to have the most variety of go-to experts which are often electricians, plumbers, and general contractors.
Home maintenance habits vary from place to place in this country. Take a quick look at the map and see where you fit in.
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America’s home help Experts
When you need Expert help for your home maintenance —someone you can trust and who’s always at your beck and call —look no further than Frontdoor.
The Frontdoor® app gives you immediate access to Experts in electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and maintenance as well as handymen. Our Experts offer an average of 20 years' experience. They offer unbiased advice and can help you complete your home repair or maintenance project.you immediate access to help for home repair and maintenance. You can talk live to a Frontdoor Pro on screen, when you need them. Call hours are 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM EST.
With the Frontdoor app, you get:
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Faster problem solving
With Frontdoor Pros just a video chat away, tackling home repair and maintenance to-do list has never been easier.
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Trusted Professionals
Save time and stress less knowing you can rely on our national network of trusted repair Pros when in-home services are needed.
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Made to fit your needs
Whether you’re looking for a little help, or a lot, you can choose a membership plan based on your needs. Our plan options give you control over how you handle things in your home.
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Members-only perks
Members can access exclusive discounts* on maintenance services, home tech, appliances, and HVAC systems** through out new HVAC program. There are also options to install or finance.***
*Pricing and amount of savings will vary based on location and equipment availability. Not available in all areas. Click here for details.
**The New HVAC Program is offered by Frontdoor Pro and performed by a Frontdoor Pro independent service contractor. For Frontdoor Pro license numbers, please visit https://pro.frontdoor.com/
***Financing provided by an independent financing company not affiliated with Frontdoor Home Services or Frontdoor Pro.
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