Every homeowner knows that their home needs proper maintenance to ensure everything is in good condition and working properly. One way of ensuring your home is in great condition is scheduling regular inspections to detect broken installations and equipment that need repair or replacement.
Periodic inspections ensure that your home is safe and comfy while reducing maintenance costs. The home maintenance checklist below provides an outline of all the areas and items that should be inspected at least twice a year.
Interiors
- Inspect the doors, ceilings, and windows for moisture, mold, or water leaks.
- Check the condition of the caulking in the bathrooms (sinks, toilets, showers, and bathtubs)
- Inspect stair railings and steps for loose or faulty installations and materials
- Inspect the fire equipment and safety systems
- Check the smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
- Mark and inspect water and gas shut off valves
Electrical Systems
- Check for exposed or faulty wires and cables
- Inspect all devices, receptacles, cords & extensions for wear
- Trip circuit breakers at least twice a year to ensure they are working
- Trip the GFCI outlets every month
- Label each circuit on electric panel
Heating and Cooling Systems
- Clean or change filters every month
- Inspect fan belt tension and listen for strange noises
- Lubricate fan and bearings if necessary as directed by the product manufacturer
- Keep the area around heating/cooling equipment free of clutter
- Inspect systems for condensation, water leaks, and mold
- Provide professional system service periodically
Doors & Windows
- Repair broken or missing glazing putty
- Inspect all weather stripping
- Check caulking between wood & masonry for deterioration
- Replace damaged or broken glass and window screens
- Inspect all door and window hardware
Plumbing
- Inspect all hose bibbs, faucets, and supply valves for leaks
- Check installations for leaks
- Clean septic tank every 2 years (where applicable)
- Perform water-quality tests on well and public water
- Check water heater for leaks, rusting, or loose fittings
- Inspect main water shut-off valve for leakage & operation
Exterior
- Inspect foundation walls and floors
- Check for grading & proper slope away from the foundation
- Inspect surfaces for weathering and paint failure
- Check basement and crawlspace for moisture, leaks, and pests
- Inspect decks, porches, patios, stairs & railings
- Inspect lawn sprinkler system for leaky valves & exposed lines
- Cut back or trim shrubs and trees from the roof and foundation
Roof
- Inspect for loose or missing roofing tiles/shingles
- Check flat roofs for blisters, open seams, splits, or bald areas
- Clean gutters, strainers & downspouts
- Ensure downspouts face away from the foundation
- Check the attic for leaks or pests
- Inspect flashings around surface protrusions & projections
- Inspect fascia and soffits for deterioration or damage
The checklist is not exhaustive but covers most of the areas that need proper attention during home maintenance.