Inspect Roof & Gutters

When: Spring & Fall

Check for missing, cracked, or curling shingles
Clean gutters and remove debris
Ensure downspouts drain 4+ feet from foundation
Look for rust, sagging, or separated gutter joints

Neglected gutters cause $2,500+ in water damage on average. A 30-minute check prevents foundation issues.

Test HVAC System

When: Every 1–3 months (filter); Annually (service)

Replace or clean air filter
Test heating mode and cooling mode
Clear debris around outdoor condenser unit
Schedule annual professional tune-up

A dirty filter makes your system work 15% harder. Annual service extends equipment life by 5–10 years.

Check Water Heater

When: Every 6 months

Inspect base and connections for leaks or corrosion
Test temperature & pressure relief valve
Flush sediment (annually at minimum)
Check thermostat is set to 120°F

Sediment buildup cuts efficiency by 25% and shortens tank life. A burst water heater averages $4,400 in damage.

Inspect Plumbing

When: Quarterly

Check under all sinks for drips or moisture
Test toilets — listen for running after flush
Inspect washer and dishwasher supply lines
Run seldom-used fixtures to prevent P-trap drying

Small leaks waste 10,000+ gallons/year. A burst supply line can dump 600 gallons/hour.

Test Safety Devices

When: Monthly (test); Annually (batteries)

Press test button on every smoke detector
Test carbon monoxide detectors
Check fire extinguisher pressure gauge
Replace batteries (even in hardwired units)

Smoke alarms reduce fire death risk by 55%. Replace units older than 10 years — sensors degrade.

Check Foundation & Exterior

When: Spring & Fall

Walk the perimeter and check for new cracks
Verify soil grades away from house (6" drop in 10')
Inspect siding, trim, and fascia for rot or damage
Check for pest entry points (gaps, holes, wood damage)

Foundation repair averages $4,500–$13,000. Catching settlement cracks early can save 90% of that cost.

Inspect Windows & Doors

When: Fall (before heating season)

Check weatherstripping — replace if cracked or flat
Inspect caulking around frames; re-caulk gaps
Test all locks and latches
Look for condensation between double-pane glass

Air leaks around windows and doors can add $200+/year to energy bills. A $5 tube of caulk pays for itself in weeks.

Service Electrical Panel

When: Quarterly (GFCIs); Annually (panel)

Test all GFCI outlets (press Test, then Reset)
Check for frequently tripped breakers
Look for scorch marks or burning smell at panel
Verify panel cover is secure and labeled

Electrical fires cause $1.3B in property damage/year in the US. A tripping breaker is a warning — don't ignore it.

Check Attic & Insulation

When: Spring & Fall

Look for signs of pests (droppings, nesting, chewing)
Check for moisture, mold, or water stains
Verify insulation depth (R-38 minimum in most climates)
Ensure soffit vents are not blocked

Proper attic insulation can reduce heating/cooling costs by 20%. Moisture up here often means a roof leak.

Maintain Appliances

When: Quarterly

Clean dryer lint vent (not just the trap)
Inspect washer hoses for bulging or cracks
Vacuum refrigerator coils
Run garbage disposal with ice + salt to clean

Clogged dryer vents cause 15,000+ fires/year. Dirty fridge coils increase energy use by 25%.

10-Point Home Maintenance Checklist

Inspect Roof & Gutters

Test HVAC System

Check Water Heater

Inspect Plumbing

Test Safety Devices

Check Foundation & Exterior

Inspect Windows & Doors

Service Electrical Panel

Check Attic & Insulation

Maintain Appliances

Keep Your Home in Top Shape

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