Regular home maintenance protects your investment and helps you catch small issues before they become expensive repairs. Here are some checklists broken down by season to help you stay on track.
Every year: call your InterNACHI-certified home inspector to perform a home maintenance inspection as part of your routine plan.
Spring
- Check for roof damage
- Check fascia and trim for deterioration
- Have your A/C professionally inspected
- Check your water heater for rust and leaks
- Check for water leaks throughout the home
- Replace worn extension cords
- Check and replace fire extinguishers as needed
Summer
- Check backyard play equipment for safety issues
- Check your deck or patio for deterioration
- Test nightlights at stairways
- Check exterior siding and window/door locks
- Check appliance water hoses for cracks
- Review your family's emergency escape plan
Fall
- Check for water leaks
- Have your heating system professionally checked
- Protect pipes from freezing
- Have your chimney and fireplace damper inspected
- Clean smoke & CO detectors and replace batteries
- Clean gutters and downspouts
- Swap window screens for storm windows
Winter
- Check caulking/weatherstripping around windows and doors
- Keep firewood at least 20 feet from your home's foundation
- Know the location of your main gas valve
- Clean the dryer exhaust duct and damper
- Test all GFCI outlets
- Check caulking around bathroom fixtures
These checklists are adapted from InterNACHI's "Now That You've Had a Home Inspection" homeowner maintenance guide.