Putting off these small projects could lead to bigger more expensive jobs down the road.

TAMPA - Home improvement projects can be a great way to kick off the new year and get your home in order for the upcoming months.
Angie's List, the nation’s premier provider of consumer reviews, surveyed contractors across the country to determine what the common home aches and pains are, and how to remedy them. There are at least six home repairs you shouldn’t skip.

“A great way to start the New Year is to take an assessment of your house," said Angie's List founder, Angie Hicks. "Walk around as if you are getting ready to buy the house. Right down everything you see that’s potentially wrong and that way you can prioritize it and money set aside for these important projects.”

• At the top of the list is the top of your house - the roof. A small issue with your roof doesn’t mean you need to replace the whole thing. But letting the little things go only means you’re in for big bills later. If you notice loose shingles, have attic leaks, suspect chimney issues or see other signs of damage up high, call in a reputable roofer, gutter or chimney expert or a handyman to give you advice about what needs to be done.

• Leaky faucets and running toilets will just get worse, so do yourself a favor and get those fixed before major damage occurs. “The most common problem that often gets put off is leaky faucets," Hicks said. "We all probably have them. Not only does it waste money throughout the year but it could lead to problems with mold and it could turn into a very expensive project to fix if left unattended.” If you notice a jump in your water bill but haven’t increased your usage, you likely have a hidden leak, which left undetected could lead to mold, wood rot and severe water damage. Don’t work with anyone who isn’t happy to show you his or her plumbing license.

• The caulking around your tub and shower prevents moisture penetration, which can lead to mold, tile and wall damage and warped cabinetry. Keeping everything watertight will save you a bundle, so be sure to repair any caulking failures. But don’t stop there. All homes get cracks and voids in their outside walls over time. Look closely at where two boards come together, because cracks often start there. Also look for damage from animals that are looking for a way in. Caulk any cracks you see to avoid water penetration, subsequent wood rot and to keep the critters out.

• Lights that dim on their own schedule aren’t just annoying, they’re a clear signal that you have an electrical problem. Experts say too many homeowners tolerate this situation for too long, which puts their homes at risk for electrical fire. Another often tolerated-too-long issue is when using one device causes another to switch off because you’ve blown a fuse or tripped a breaker. This is a sign you have a capacity or circuit box issue. If you have any of these issues, call in a licensed, reputable electrician.

• Improperly sealed windows and doors will bring cold air inside during the winter and let cooled air out in the summer, costing you big bucks on your energy bill. An energy audit can tell you where your leaks are and how to seal them up.

• HVAC experts say 60 percent of their service calls result from systems stressed by dirty air filters. Changing air filters regularly (every quarter or so; more if you have pets) can save you up to $100 each year on your energy bill, and may keep you from needing emergency repairs. Many highly reputable heating and air conditioning companies offer maintenance plans that include an annual inspection. Doing this will give you an early alert to any issues you have with your entire HVAC system so you can stave off breakdowns.

Finally, Hicks offer this word of warning. “Unless you’re an avid do-it-yourselfer," she said, "you probably want to start with very basic projects that you want to do yourself - changing filters, caulking around windows – but anything that has to do with plumbing or electrical is better off left to the pros.”