Maintenance Checklist

Keep your home in excellent condition with this comprehensive maintenance schedule. Regular maintenance prevents costly repairs and maintains your home's value.

Monthly Tasks

Interior Maintenance

Test smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors
Check air filters and replace if dirty
Inspect faucets for leaks and drips
Clean garbage disposal with ice cubes and lemon
Check toilet for running or leaks
Inspect caulking around tubs and sinks
Clean range hood and exhaust fans
Test garage door opener and safety features

Exterior Maintenance

Inspect exterior for damage or wear
Check gutters for clogs or damage
Look for cracks in foundation or walls
Inspect roof for missing shingles or damage
Check outdoor lighting and replace bulbs
Test outdoor faucets and hoses
Inspect deck/patio for loose boards or nails
Check weatherstripping on doors and windows

Quarterly Tasks (Every 3 Months)

HVAC System

Change air filters (or monthly if needed)
Clean air vents and registers
Inspect ductwork for leaks or damage
Test thermostat and programming
Clean outdoor unit (if applicable)
Check refrigerant levels (professional)
Inspect electrical connections (professional)
Lubricate moving parts (professional)

Plumbing System

Check water pressure in all faucets
Inspect pipes for leaks or corrosion
Clean shower heads and faucet aerators
Test water heater temperature and pressure valve
Drain water heater sediment (if needed)
Check sump pump operation (if applicable)
Inspect well pump (if applicable)
Test backflow preventer (if applicable)

Electrical System

Test GFCI outlets in kitchen and bathrooms
Check circuit breakers and fuses
Inspect electrical cords for damage
Test outdoor outlets and lighting
Check doorbell and intercom systems
Inspect electrical panel for corrosion
Test surge protectors and UPS systems
Check outdoor electrical connections

Seasonal Tasks

Spring (March-May)

Exterior

Clean gutters and downspouts thoroughly
Inspect roof for winter damage
Check siding for damage or loose pieces
Clean windows inside and out
Inspect foundation for cracks or settling
Check outdoor faucets and irrigation
Clean and inspect deck or patio
Prepare lawn and garden areas

Interior

Deep clean carpets and rugs
Wash windows and clean screens
Clean ceiling fans and light fixtures
Inspect and clean air ducts
Test air conditioning system
Clean refrigerator coils and filters
Inspect and clean dryer vent
Check and clean chimney (if applicable)

Summer (June-August)

Exterior

Maintain lawn and landscaping
Check irrigation system regularly
Inspect and clean outdoor furniture
Check outdoor lighting and timers
Inspect and clean pool/spa (if applicable)
Check outdoor electrical connections
Inspect and clean outdoor cooking areas
Monitor for pests and insects

Interior

Check air conditioning filters monthly
Test air conditioning efficiency
Clean and maintain dehumidifiers
Check and clean refrigerator and freezer
Inspect and clean washing machine
Check and clean dishwasher
Test and maintain security systems
Clean and organize storage areas

Fall (September-November)

Exterior

Clean gutters and downspouts
Inspect roof and chimney
Check and clean outdoor lighting
Inspect and clean outdoor furniture
Check weatherstripping on doors and windows
Inspect and clean outdoor faucets
Prepare for winter weather
Clean and store outdoor equipment

Interior

Test heating system before cold weather
Check and clean heating vents
Inspect and clean fireplace and chimney
Check and clean humidifiers
Test carbon monoxide detectors
Inspect and clean water heater
Check and clean sump pump (if applicable)
Prepare for winter energy efficiency

Winter (December-February)

Exterior

Check for ice dams on roof
Inspect gutters for ice buildup
Check outdoor faucets for freezing
Inspect and clean outdoor lighting
Check for snow and ice damage
Inspect and clean outdoor equipment
Monitor for pests seeking shelter
Check and maintain winter equipment

Interior

Check heating system regularly
Inspect and clean heating vents
Test and maintain humidifiers
Check and clean water heater
Inspect and clean sump pump (if applicable)
Test and maintain security systems
Check and clean indoor air quality
Inspect and clean storage areas

Annual Tasks

Major Systems

HVAC professional inspection and service
Plumbing professional inspection
Electrical professional inspection
Roof professional inspection
Foundation professional inspection
Chimney professional cleaning and inspection
Septic system inspection (if applicable)
Well system inspection (if applicable)

Exterior Maintenance

Power wash exterior siding
Paint touch-ups as needed
Seal driveways and walkways
Inspect and repair deck or patio
Check and repair fencing
Inspect and clean outdoor structures
Check and repair outdoor lighting
Inspect and clean outdoor equipment

Interior Maintenance

Deep clean all carpets and rugs
Clean and maintain all appliances
Inspect and clean all air ducts
Clean and maintain all light fixtures
Inspect and clean all plumbing fixtures
Clean and maintain all electrical outlets
Inspect and clean all storage areas
Test and maintain all safety systems

Emergency Preparedness

Safety Equipment

Test smoke detectors monthly
Test carbon monoxide detectors monthly
Check fire extinguishers annually
Test emergency lighting monthly
Check first aid kit quarterly
Test emergency radio monthly
Check emergency supplies quarterly
Test emergency contacts annually

Emergency Procedures

Review evacuation plans with family
Test emergency communication systems
Check emergency shutoff locations
Review emergency contact information
Test emergency lighting and power
Check emergency water and food supplies
Review emergency procedures with family
Update emergency contact information

Maintenance Records

Keep Records Of

Service dates and providers
Warranty information and expiration dates
Model numbers and serial numbers
Installation dates and contractors
Repair history and costs
Upgrade dates and improvements
Energy efficiency improvements
Safety inspections and certifications

Digital Records

Photos of systems and improvements
Receipts and invoices
Warranty cards and documentation
Service contracts and agreements
Insurance policies and claims
Permits and inspections
Energy bills and usage
Maintenance schedules and reminders

Cost-Saving Tips

DIY Maintenance

Learn basic plumbing repairs
Learn basic electrical repairs
Learn basic HVAC maintenance
Learn basic appliance maintenance
Learn basic painting and touch-ups
Learn basic caulking and sealing
Learn basic cleaning and maintenance
Learn basic safety procedures

Professional Services

Compare prices for services
Get multiple quotes for major work
Check references and reviews
Verify licenses and insurance
Negotiate prices and packages
Schedule services during off-peak times
Bundle services for discounts
Maintain relationships with good contractors

Download Checklist

Download PDF Version

This checklist is a general guide. Your specific home may require additional maintenance tasks based on its age, condition, and systems.

Regular maintenance is an investment in your home's value and your family's comfort and safety.