Home Maintenance Checklist

* For appliance maintenance schedules and procedures, refer to the specific owner's manual.

 

As Needed

Condition

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Close fireplace damper when not in use

 

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Fix leaky faucets

 

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Unclog slow-running drains

 

 

Monthly

 

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Inspect and test smoke and fire alarms

 

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Inspect and replace filters as necessary (air conditioner, furnace, pool, and so on)

 

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Clean/vacuum grill and inside compressor unit of central air conditioner, when in use

 

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Walk around the house exterior to check general condition

 

 

Spring

 

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Replace smoke and fire alarm batteries (at least twice per year)

 

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Cut back any trees or shrubs touching the exterior (twice per year)

 

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Inspect and touch up exterior paint

 

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Inspect foundation for water penetration, settlement, and cracks

 

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Inspect or treat exterior wood for splintering, decay, and insect damage

 

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Inspect window insulation and remove storm windows

 

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Clean exterior of upper-story windows (twice per year)

 

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Install window screens, repairing as needed

 

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Clean gutters and inspect downspouts (twice per year)

 

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Inspect roof for warping, aging, moss, and cracking

 

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Perform seasonal pest control (quarterly)

 

 

Summer

 

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Inspect exposed plumbing areas for dampness (twice per year)

 

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Fix loose or cracked caulking around tiles, sinks, tubs, showers, toilets, and counters

 

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Inspect appliance hoses and ventilation according to owner's manuals

 

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Power wash, repair, refinish, and seal decks, reset any protruding nails

 

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Clean and lubricate sliding-glass-door tracks and window tracks

 

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Lubricate door hinges and locks

 

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Oil garage door(s)

 

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Patch driveway and other concrete, or treat asphalt

 

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Perform seasonal pest control (quarterly)

 

 

Fall

 

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Replace smoke and fire alarm batteries (at least twice per year)

 

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Inspect and clean fireplace and chimney

 

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Service furnace or other heating system

 

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Clean and adjust humidifier on furnace

 

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Clean/vacuum heating ducts, grills, and registers

 

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Clean upper-story windows (twice per year)

 

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Inspect window screens and insulation, and install storm windows

 

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Inspect weather-stripping around doors and replace as needed.

 

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Cut back any trees or shrubs touching the roof or exterior (twice per year)

 

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Clean gutters and inspect downspouts (twice per year)

 

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Trim, cover, or bring in outdoor plants as needed

 

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Perform seasonal pest control (quarterly)

 

 

Winter

 

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Recharge fire extinguishers

 

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Wax and buff wood floors

 

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Professionally clean curtains and drapes

 

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Inspect and touch up interior paint

 

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Inspect exposed plumbing areas for dampness (twice per year)

 

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Perform seasonal pest control (quarterly)

 

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Test for carbon monoxide