Regular home maintenance can help you avoid major repair bills. Keeping your home in good condition brings peace of mind and the comfort of a safe, attractive place to live. It’s also a smart way to take care of what may be one of the largest investments you’ll ever make.
The Seasonal Maintenance Checklist that follows is a good starting point for developing your own checklist. Depending on where you live, climate, etc., tailor the list to reflect your specific needs (e.g., swimming pool maintenance, irrigation system maintenance). Many of these tasks are easy to perform yourself; for others you’ll need to hire an appropriate specialist (e.g., annual furnace tune-up).
Seasonal Maintenance Checklist
Spring – Exterior
[ ] Inspect outside of house for visible defects: e.g., cracked or peeling paint, broken panes of glass, loose mortar between bricks. Repair as
[ ] Repair door and window screens if necessary, and install.
[ ] Inspect caulk and weather stripping around doors and windows. Repair as required.
Spring -Interior
[ ] Test your smoke alarms (NOTE: this should be done monthly) and replace batteries.
[ ] Clean or replace filters on air conditioner(s).
[ ] Clean fireplace; have chimney professionally inspected and cleaned as necessary.
[ ] Check exposed foundation walls (e.g., concrete block in basement or garage) for dampness. Consult a professional, as necessary.
[ ] Check faucets for leaks; replace washers or faucets as necessary.
[ ] Inspect attic for pests (e.g., mice, squirrels, hornets), and remediate if necessary; check attic ventilation.
[ ] Inspect and clean dryer vent, range hood filters.
[ ] Vacuum refrigerator compressor.
[ ] Check hoses on washing machine, refrigerator, and dishwasher. If they show signs of deterioration, replace them.
Fall- Exterior
[ ] Inspect caulk and weather stripping around doors and windows. Repair as required.
[ ] Inspect outside of house for visible defects: e.g., cracked or peeling paint, broken panes of glass, loose mortar between bricks. Repair as required.
[ ] Remove, clean, and store screens.
[ ] Check storm windows and doors; repair or replace as required.
[ ] In cold climate areas, disconnect hoses and turn off and drain outside faucets.
[ ] After leaves have fallen, clean gutters and drainpipes and check roof for condition.
[ ] Check flashing (e.g., around chimney, vents, skylights) for leaks; repair as necessary.
[ ] Check chimney for damaged cap, loose mortar; repair/replace as necessary.
[ ] Lubricate door locks, if necessary.
Fall-Interior
[ ] Check fireplace flue; make sure damper opens easily and closes completely.
[ ] Check insulation wherever possible (e.g., around electrical outlets on outside walls); add or replace as necessary.
[ ] Have furnace serviced, clean or change filter.
[ ] Check and clean humidifier per manufacturer’s instructions.
[ ] Call the utility company to do an energy audit.
[ ] If you have a sump pump, test, clean, lubricate and repair as necessary.
[ ] Drain hot water heater, flush out sediment, and refill.
[ ] Vacuum refrigerator compressor, clean range hood filter.
The Right Person for the Job
Doing your own repair and remodeling work can save you money, and for small projects, it may be a good idea. Big maintenance and home improvement projects, though, are usually better left to the pros, unless you have specialized skills. If you’re remodeling the kitchen, there will be plumbing, electrical, and carpentry work. Hiring experienced, skilled people can save you money and time in the final analysis. And having something done right—the first time—will give you value that lasts for years.
To find a reliable, skilled home improvement contractor or a handyman, check with friends, business associates, and neighbors. Always ask potential tradespersons for at least three references-and check them out. Check, too, with your local chapter of the Better Business Bureau or Chamber of Commerce.
Make sure everyone is in agreement about design, schedule, and budget. Get the details in a written, signed contract that is as specific as possible (e.g., who will obtain and pay for building permits; exact materials to be used, payment schedule). Make sure that all contractors you hire are fully insured and bonded. Verify that your contractors carry workers’ compensation insurance so that if any workers are injured on the job, you won’t be held liable. Ask for a copy of insurance certificates. Contact your town or city Building Department or Planning and Zoning Commission for information on permits you must obtain before beginning the work.
Financing Repairs
Depending on the scope of your plans, you may need to seek funding
outside your regular household budget. Possibilities include:
- Short-term loans, perhaps from a 401(k) or 403(b).
- Home improvement loans from banks, savings and loans, and credit unions.
- Second mortgages, or loans against the equity in your home.
- Refinancing – paying off your old loan and taking out a new mortgage on your home (i.e., remortgaging).
- Home equity line of credit. Like a second mortgage, but you can make withdrawals as needed, rather than all at once.
- Unsecured loans (usually most appropriate for small projects e.g., under $10,000).
There are advantages and disadvantages to each of these options. For example, if you refinance, all of the interest on your loan will be tax deductible, but you’ll likely incur significant closing costs. On the other hand, the cost to obtain an unsecured loan is usually very low, but you’ll pay a higher interest rate, and probably realize no tax advantages. Compare interest rates, repayment options, and penalties. Be sure to talk to a tax advisor about the tax implications of your options before choosing.
