When it comes to your website, things are changing all the time. Updates, security patches, new browser versions and even email authentication upgrades can cause unexpected issues. Something that worked perfectly last month may suddenly stop working without you realising.
That’s why it’s important to regularly review your website and check that everything is still functioning, secure and displaying correctly.
To make things easier, we’ve created a simple website health checklist you can save and refer back to.
1. Test your contact forms regularly
Your contact forms are one of the most important parts of your website. If they stop working, you could be missing out on valuable enquiries without even knowing it.
Even small changes to email filtering can affect whether your enquiries reach your inbox. For example, Microsoft is rolling out enhanced security features to Microsoft 365 email users during March and April, which could potentially affect your contact forms – so now is a great time to check that messages are being received correctly.
2. Review your website policies
Your privacy policy, cookie policy and any other legal documents should always be present and up to date. These help protect both your business and your website visitors.
As your business grows or regulations change, it’s important to ensure your policies still reflect how you collect, store and process data, so be sure to review them periodically and make any necessary updates.
3. Check your cookie consent banner
Cookie consent is an area that many businesses overlook. Your banner should not only be visible, but also fully functional and compliant with current privacy laws.
Visitors should be able to manage their cookie preferences and opt in or out of different types of tracking. If your banner isn’t working correctly, your website may not be compliant.
4. Confirm your legal business details are displayed
In the UK, you are required to display your registered business name, address and VAT number on your website.
It’s worth checking that these details are visible, accurate and easy to find, usually found in the footer or on the contact page of your website.
5. Review pages, images and content across devices (visual and technical checks)
Technology and browsers are constantly evolving, which means layouts and images can sometimes break.
Take time to review your website on different devices and screen sizes. Check that images load correctly, text is readable and navigation works smoothly across desktop, tablet and mobile.
6. Make sure content is up to date
It is important to also check that your website content is up to date, including written content, images and videos.
You’ll want to make sure that the content still accurately reflects your business and the product or services you offer today. In addition, make sure that any news or blog area has been updated, as old content can be off-putting to potential customers.
7. Keep your website themes and plugins up to date
If your website runs on platforms such as WordPress, keeping the core system, themes and plugins up to date is essential.
Updates often include security patches, performance improvements and compatibility fixes. Ignoring them can leave your website vulnerable or cause parts of your site to stop working.
Why regular website checks matter
If your website isn’t maintained, small issues can quickly turn into bigger problems. These could range from missed enquiries and poor user experience to security vulnerabilities and data breaches.
A regular website health check helps keep your online presence secure, professional and effective, enabling you to create the right impression and help convert more visitors into customers.
FAQs
How often should I check my website?
It’s a good idea to do a quick website health check at least once a month, and after any major updates. Regular checks help ensure everything is working properly and that enquiries, forms and key features are functioning as they should.
What policies do I need on my website?
Your website should include a privacy policy and cookie policy, especially if you collect any personal data or use analytics or tracking tools. Depending on your business, you may also need terms and conditions or other legal notices.
Where can I get website maintenance in Staffordshire?
Limelight provides professional website maintenance and risk management services for businesses across Staffordshire, handling updates, security and monitoring on your behalf. Get in touch and we’ll be happy to help keep your website stable, secure and running smoothly.
Need help with your website maintenance?
If you’re unsure about anything, or would like support managing updates and monitoring your website with our website maintenance and risk management services, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. We’ll be happy to help and advise on the best approach for your business.