Home Maintenance Checklist

Whether you move into a newly constructed home or one previously lived in, home maintenance is must. By staying on top of upkeep, your home will not only look and run more efficiently, but it will also help keep your resale value high.

Each year, plan on saving 1-3% of your home’s value for regular home maintenance. By sticking to a schedule, you protect your biggest investment while maintaining a comfortable living situation. 

Here are monthly and seasonal checklists to help you to keep your home in top shape. 

Monthly

Check the interior and exterior of your home every month. With a quick walkthrough, you can check off these items and help eliminate surprises down the road:

• Clean HVAC filters and change furnace filters.
• Clean faucet aerators.
• Inspect drains and look for leaks.
• Inspect grout and caulking.
• Test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors.
• Clear indoor and outdoor air vents (including the kitchen vent hood).
• Check water softener (if applicable).

Fall

When the temperatures are still moderate, get in as much yard clean up as you can, and prepare the home for winter:

• Schedule another HVAC checkup.  You don’t want to realize there’s an issue after temperatures drop!
• Inspect and clean the fireplace.
• Clean gutters (after the leaves fall!).
• Check the roof for missing shingles.
• Check weatherstripping on doors and windows.  
• Winterize exterior plumbing. 
• Patch and seal driveway.

Winter

During the colder months of winter, pay attention to these interior needs: 

• Touch up interior paint (as needed).
• Clean grout in kitchens and bathrooms. 
• Clean sink, tub, shower, and dishwasher drains.
• Check the basement for leaks. 
• Watch the roof for ice dams.
• Check for drafts.

Spring 

As the weather begins to warm up, many people are eager for some fresh air and spring cleaning. In addition to a deep clean and yard cleanup, make sure you complete these tasks:

• HVAC checkup by a professional. 
• Inspect the roof, siding, and outdoor living spaces.  
• Clean gutters.
• Inspect driveway and walkways. 
• Check for air leaks around doors and windows. 
• Look for rotting wood or insect damage.

Summer

Complete these tasks early in the season so you can fully enjoy your summer:

• Oil garage door and chain, and all door hinges.
• Trim plants and hedges near the HVAC system.
• Power wash exterior of the house.
• Inspect foundation and crawlspace. 
• Check sprinklers or lawn irrigation system. 
• Check the damper in the fireplace.