Why the season matters here
East Sussex homes deal with wet winters, salt-laden wind near the coast and plenty of older brick, flint and timber. Regular small checks cost little and catch problems while they are still cheap to fix.
Autumn: get ready for the rain
Clear gutters and downpipes once the leaves have fallen. Look for slipped or cracked roof tiles from the ground, or with binoculars. Check that external paintwork is sound, because bare timber soaks up water quickly.
Bleed radiators and check the boiler has been serviced before the cold arrives.
Winter: watch for damp and draughts
Notice condensation on windows, musty corners and dark patches on walls, especially in north-facing rooms. Keep ventilation going, and do not block air bricks. If a stain grows or returns, find the source, whether a leak, a blocked gutter or rising damp, before repainting.
Spring: inspect and repair
Walk around the outside and look for cracked pointing, failing sealant around windows and flaking masonry paint. Spring is a good time to book repairs, before summer schedules fill up.
Check loft insulation and look for signs of leaks after the winter weather.
Summer: decorate and refresh
Dry weather is the best time for exterior painting and larger decorating jobs. Good preparation, including cleaning, filling and priming, matters more than the paint itself and decides how long the finish lasts.
Know when to call someone
Keep a simple note of what you notice and when. If a problem involves structure, gas or electrics, or keeps coming back, it is worth asking a professional to look. A short visit is usually cheaper than a repair left too long.