Want to keep your home in great shape and avoid costly repairs? We've prepared the ultimate home maintenance checklist you'll ever need! It includes daily, weekly, monthly, seasonal, and annual checklists! We've also included exterior maintenance tips and even provided maintenance checklists for various systems, including plumbing and electrical systems.

If you want to review the list quickly, just check the table at the end of our article!

Daily & Weekly Home Maintenance Checklist

• Daily tasks: wipe down kitchen and bathroom surfaces, sweep or vacuum high-traffic floors, and use bathroom fans while showering.
• Vacuum carpets and mop floors to remove embedded dirt and allergens. For carpets, use a vacuum with a HEPA filter. Mop hard floors with appropriate cleaners to prevent buildup and maintain shine.
• Scrub toilets, tubs, and sinks to prevent soap scum, hard water stains, and bacteria from accumulating. Use disinfectants on toilets and sinks, and a mild abrasive cleaner for tubs.
• Clear leaves and debris from around the foundation. Organic debris can trap moisture against your home's foundation, leading to cracks or pest infestations. Rake away leaves and ensure water can drain away from the house.
• Check for mail, packages, or flyers. Uncollected mail or flyers can signal to burglars that no one is home and attract pests.

Monthly Home Maintenance Checklist

• Change HVAC/furnace filters. Dirty air filters restrict airflow, making your system work harder and increasing energy costs.
• Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
• Inspect sinks, faucets, and pipes for leaks. Even small leaks can cause water damage, mold, and higher utility bills, so check under sinks and around fixtures for moisture or drips.
• Clean the kitchen range hood filter. Grease buildup in the filter can reduce efficiency and pose a fire risk. Make sure to remove and wash the filter with warm, soapy water each month.
• Check and clean the garbage disposal. Food particles can cause odors and clogs. You can run ice cubes, citrus peels, or baking soda through the disposal to clean blades and freshen the unit.
• Inspect grout and caulking in bathrooms because damaged grout or caulk allows water to seep behind tiles, leading to mold and rot.
• Trip and reset GFCI outlets. Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outlets protect against electrical shock. Test each outlet by pressing the “test” and “reset” buttons to ensure they work.
• Walk around the house (inside & out) to spot cracks, leaks, or signs of pests before they become major problems. Check walls, ceilings, and exterior siding.
• Clean the dryer lint filter and inspect the vent. Lint buildup is a major fire hazard, so clean the filter after every use and inspect the vent monthly for blockages.

Spring Home Maintenance Checklist

• Clean gutters and downspouts. Winter debris can clog gutters. This can cause severe water damage. Make sure to remove leaves and twigs and ensure downspouts direct water away from the foundation.
• Inspect the roof for damage. Look for missing or damaged shingles, cracked flashing, or signs of leaks. If you spot issues early, you'll save money and prevent interior water damage.
• Check exterior paint and siding because peeling paint or damaged siding exposes your home to the elements.
• Test sprinkler systems. Run your sprinkler system to check for leaks, broken heads, or uneven coverage. Repair issues to conserve water and keep your lawn healthy.
• Trim trees and shrubs. Overgrown branches can damage siding or roofs and provide pathways for pests.
• Check the foundation for cracks and moisture. Inspect the foundation for new or widening cracks and signs of water infiltration.

Summer Home Maintenance Checklist

• Service the air conditioning system. Schedule a professional tune-up to ensure efficient cooling. Clean or replace filters and check refrigerant levels for optimal performance.
• Inspect and clean window screens. Remove screens and wash them with soapy water. If needed, repair any holes.
• Check and repair fences, decks, and patios. Inspect for loose boards, rusted nails, or rot, tighten fasteners, and reseal wood surfaces to extend their lifespan.
• Paint or stain exterior woodwork because sun and rain can damage exterior wood.
• Inspect the basement or crawl space for moisture. Check for dampness, mold, or water stains. Use a dehumidifier if necessary to prevent structural and air quality issues.

Fall Home Maintenance Checklist

• Clean and inspect the chimney and fireplace. Remove soot and creosote buildup to prevent chimney fires. Hire a professional for a thorough inspection and cleaning.
• Winterize outdoor faucets and sprinkler systems. Drain and shut off outdoor water lines to prevent freezing and burst pipes during winter.
• Replace worn weather stripping and caulking around doors and windows to keep cold air out and reduce heating costs.
• Service the heating system/furnace. Have a technician inspect and clean your furnace before the heating season. Replace filters and check for carbon monoxide leaks.
• Rake leaves and prepare garden beds for winter. Remove leaves from lawns to prevent mold and prepare flower beds by cutting back perennials and adding mulch.
• Check attic insulation and ventilation. Proper insulation keeps your home warm and energy efficient. Ensure vents are clear to prevent ice dams and moisture buildup.

Winter Home Maintenance Checklist

• Check the roof for ice dams and icicles. Ice dams can cause water to back up under shingles, leading to leaks. Remove snow from the roof edge and ensure gutters are clear.
• Check pipes for freezing risk and insulate as needed.
• Test the sump pump to prevent basement flooding. Pour water into the sump pit to ensure the pump activates and discharges water properly.
• Clean and organize storage areas. Winter is a good time to declutter attics, basements, and garages.
• Check for drafts and seal as needed. Use weatherstripping, caulk, or draft stoppers to seal gaps around windows and doors, improving comfort and reducing heating bills.

Yearly Home Maintenance Checklist

Home Maintenance by System

If you're looking for a more detailed home maintenance checklist based on home systems, keep reading!

Plumbing

• Inspect for leaks under sinks, around toilets, and at water heaters monthly. Water leaks can cause rot, mold, and expensive repairs.
• Flush the water heater annually. Sediment buildup reduces efficiency and can damage the tank. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for safe flushing.
• Insulate pipes before winter. Pipe insulation prevents freezing and bursting in cold weather, especially in unheated areas like basements and crawl spaces.
• Test the sump pump annually. Pour water into the pit to ensure the pump activates and discharges water. A working sump pump prevents basement flooding.
• Know your water main shut-off valve. Locate your home’s main water shut-off valve and ensure every household member knows where it is and how to operate it. In the event of a burst pipe or major leak, quickly shutting off the water can prevent extensive damage. Test the valve periodically to make sure it turns easily and isn’t stuck due to mineral buildup.
• Sump pump backup power. A sump pump protects your basement from flooding, but it’s useless during a power outage unless you have a backup system. Install a battery backup or connect your sump pump to a generator to ensure it continues working during storms or outages. Test the backup system regularly to confirm it’s operational.
• Maintain your water softener. If your home has a water softener, check the salt level monthly and refill as needed. Clean the brine tank and resin bed according to the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure optimal performance and prevent mineral buildup in your plumbing.

Electrical

• Test GFCI and AFCI outlets monthly. These outlets protect against electrical shock and fire. Press the test and reset buttons to confirm functionality.
• Inspect extension cords and power strips for wear. Damaged cords can cause fires. Replace any that are frayed or have exposed wires.
• Replace burnt-out bulbs and faulty switches. Ensure all lights and switches work properly to maintain safety and convenience.

HVAC

• Change filters monthly or as recommended to improve air quality and system efficiency. Follow manufacturer guidelines for replacement frequency.
• Schedule professional service for heating and cooling systems annually. Technicians can identify and fix issues before they cause breakdowns.
• Clean vents and registers quarterly.
• Monitor indoor air quality. Beyond dust and pollen, indoor air can contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs), radon, and formaldehyde from building materials and household products. Consider using air purifiers with HEPA and carbon filters, and test for radon, especially in basements.
• Clean heater grilles and registers. Dust and debris can accumulate on wall heater grilles and in floor or ceiling registers, reducing air flow and efficiency. Vacuum and wipe down these components monthly to maintain good air quality and system performance.

Safety

• Test smoke and CO detectors monthly; replace batteries twice a year. Early warning devices save lives. Replace units every 7-10 years.
• Check fire extinguishers annually. Ensure they are fully charged and accessible. Replace or service if expired.
• Review and practice emergency evacuation plans. Make sure all family members know what to do in case of fire, flood, or other emergencies.

Exterior Home Maintenance Checklist

A well-maintained exterior not only boosts curb appeal but also protects your home from costly damage. Here’s a detailed guide to maintaining key exterior elements: your garden, window wells, gutters and downspouts, and deck.

Garden Maintenance

A thriving garden enhances your property and provides a welcoming environment. Proper upkeep involves:

• Lawn care: regularly mow, aerate, and overseed your lawn to keep grass healthy and lush. Avoid cutting grass too short, as this can invite weeds and stress the turf. Inspect and maintain your lawn equipment by sharpening blades and changing spark plugs as needed.
• Pruning and trimming: prune shrubs and shape hedges seasonally to encourage healthy growth and maintain a tidy appearance. Remove dead or diseased branches, and trim back overgrown vegetation to prevent it from encroaching on your home’s exterior.
• Weeding and mulching: remove weeds from flower beds and landscaping regularly. Apply mulch to suppress weeds, retain soil moisture, and provide nutrients to plants.
• Watering: water your garden and lawn as needed, especially during dry spells. Early morning or late evening watering is most effective and reduces evaporation.
• Ensure proper foundation grading: the ground around your home’s foundation should slope away from the house to direct water runoff and prevent pooling. Check for soil erosion or depressions and add soil as needed to maintain a gentle slope. This helps prevent basement leaks and foundation damage.

Window Well Maintenance

Window wells are essential for basement light and ventilation but require regular care to prevent water damage:

• Debris removal: clean out leaves, dirt, and other debris from window wells at least twice a year—spring and fall are ideal times. Accumulated debris can clog drainage and cause water to pool against basement windows, risking leaks.
• Drainage inspection: ensure the well’s drain is clear and functioning. Pour water into the well to check for proper drainage. Consult a professional for drainage improvements if needed.
• Gravel maintenance: the gravel at the bottom of the well should be loose and free of sand or compacted soil to facilitate drainage. Replace or refresh gravel as needed.
• Rust and structural checks: inspect metal window wells for rust and all wells for cracks or signs of shifting. Address any deterioration promptly to prolong the well’s life and prevent leaks.
• Install covers: consider installing clear, durable window well covers to keep out debris, rain, and snow. Covers also enhance safety by preventing falls.

Gutters and Downspouts

Gutters and downspouts direct water away from your home’s foundation, preventing erosion and water damage:

• Regular cleaning: clean gutters and downspouts at least twice a year—once in late spring and again in late fall. Remove leaves, twigs, and debris to prevent clogs that can cause water to overflow and damage your home.
• Check for proper pitch: gutters should slope slightly (about 1/16 inch per foot) toward downspouts for effective drainage. Test by pouring water into the gutter and observing the flow. Adjust hangers or re-pitch gutters if water pools.
• Inspect for damage: look for leaks, rust, or holes in gutters and downspouts. Small leaks can be sealed with gutter-specific sealant, while larger holes may require section replacement.
• Downspout maintenance: ensure downspouts are clear and extend at least 3-6 feet away from the foundation. Install leaf strainers at downspout outlets to prevent clogs.
• Seasonal checks: before major storms or anticipated heavy rainfall, inspect and clean the system to ensure it’s ready to handle increased water flow.

Deck Maintenance

A deck expands your living space and adds value to your home, but exposure to the elements means it needs regular attention:

• Routine cleaning: sweep your deck weekly to remove leaves and debris. Clean the surface thoroughly at least once or twice a year with a deck cleaner suitable for your material (wood or composite).
• Inspect for damage: check for loose boards, protruding nails, splinters, or signs of rot and insect damage. Pay special attention to areas where the deck meets the house and ground contact points.
• Fastener and structure checks: tighten loose screws and nails. Inspect the substructure for signs of moisture damage, rusted fasteners, or joist issues. Address any concerns promptly to prevent further deterioration.
• Mold and mildew prevention: remove debris from between deck boards with a putty knife. Mold and mildew thrive in damp, shaded areas, so ensure the deck dries completely after rain.
• Sealing and staining: for wood decks, apply a water-repellent sealant or stain every 1-3 years to protect against moisture and UV damage. Composite decks require less maintenance but should still be cleaned regularly.
• Seasonal preparation: before winter, clear the deck of furniture and planters. In spring, inspect for winter damage and make repairs as needed.

When to Call a Professional

• Electrical work beyond basic outlet or switch replacement. Complex wiring jobs should be handled by licensed electricians to ensure safety and code compliance.
• Roofing repairs or replacement. Working at heights is dangerous, and improper repairs can cause leaks or void warranties.
• Major plumbing issues (sewer line, water main). Large-scale plumbing problems require specialized tools and expertise.
• Structural repairs (foundation cracks, sagging floors). These issues can compromise your home’s safety and must be assessed by professionals.
• HVAC servicing beyond filter changes. Annual inspections and repairs should be done by certified technicians.
• Chimney sweeping and repairs. Professionals have the tools and knowledge to clean and inspect chimneys safely.

Pro Tips for Effective Home Maintenance

• Walk around your home regularly. Frequent inspections help you catch small issues before they become major problems. Look for water stains, cracks, or signs of pests both inside and outside.
• Keep a maintenance journal. Record dates of completed tasks, repairs, and professional services. This helps you stay organized and provides valuable documentation for future buyers.
• Set reminders for recurring tasks. Use your phone or a calendar app to schedule monthly, seasonal, and annual maintenance. Consistency is key to effective upkeep.
• Invest in quality tools. Durable, reliable tools make DIY maintenance easier and safer. Keep essential items like a ladder, pliers, and a cordless drill on hand.
• Know your limits. For complex or dangerous tasks—such as electrical work, roofing, or structural repairs—hire licensed professionals to avoid injury or further damage.
• Climate considerations. In cold climates, focus on insulation and pipe protection; in hot climates, prioritize air conditioner maintenance and pest control; in humid climates, check for mold and ensure good ventilation.

Printable Home Maintenance Checklist

Frequently Asked Questions

What regular maintenance should be done on a house?

You should regularly change air filters, clean gutters and downspouts, test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, inspect for leaks in plumbing, check weatherstripping, replace caulking, maintain HVAC systems, and keep appliances clean and in good working order.

What is the 1% rule for home maintenance?

The 1% rule implies that you should set aside about 1% of your home’s purchase price each year for maintenance and repairs. This will cover both routine upkeep and unexpected issues and keep your home in tip top shape.

What is a maintenance plan for a house?

A maintenance plan for a house is an organized schedule of tasks—monthly, seasonal, and annual—that ensures all systems and structures are regularly inspected, cleaned, and repaired to keep the home safe and efficient.

How often should I test my smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors?

It's important to test your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors monthly to keep your home safe and ensure they're working properly.

What are the key tasks I should focus on during winter home maintenance?

It's crucial to insulate outdoor faucets to prevent frozen pipes, check your heating system for efficiency, and inspect your roof for any snow buildup or damage.

How can I prevent water damage from clogged gutters?

To prevent water damage from clogged gutters, make sure to regularly clean them and consider installing gutter screens to reduce debris buildup.