General Maintenance Checklist

Do you ever wonder if you are missing something in your home maintenance routine?  

We made a general checklist for you to look at and compare with your mental checklist so you can get some good ideas for best maintenance practices at your home. 

This checklist covers some basic, necessary maintenance items for most homes. It is by no means all-inclusive. Some items may not be applicable for the type of home and home features you have. For full details, please consult all guides, warranties, and literature provided by Design Tech Homes, as well as the specific warranties and manuals for your home’s various appliances. 

Monthly

(on or around the first day of the month)

• Test and clean/dust smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
• Test GFCI/GFI receptacle/breaker and outlets
• Replace/clean heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC) air return filters
• Check grout/caulking in tile and marble in wet areas (showers, sinks, etc.); repair as needed 

Quarterly

(on or around the first day of January, April, July, and October)

• Check range hood charcoal filter; replace/clean as necessary; repair as needed
• Check caulk seals between walls, countertops, and on any laminated surfaces; repair as needed
• Check, and adjust as necessary, thresholds, door sweeps, and weatherstripping on exterior doors to maintain air tightness
• Oil all moving parts and tighten nuts and bolts on garage door(s) and tracks; check garage door opener(s) and sensors
• Remove leaves, debris, and snow from window wells
• Check dryer vent exhaust for lint blockage; clean as needed
• Thoroughly check showers and wet areas for mildew. Clean mildew if needed. 

Annually

• Inspect and repair kitchen appliances
• Inspect roof penetrations annually — roof jacks, appliance flues, etc.
• Check and repair damaged window screens
• Inspect and clean bathroom and kitchen exhaust vents
• Inspect attic areas for improper storage of materials
• Inspect doors and windows for proper function 
• Inspect overhead garage doors and openers
• Inspect for improper storage of chemicals and hazardous materials inside and outside of dwelling
• Inspect all outdoor fencing and gates
• Schedule an annual termite inspection by a licensed professional
• Change or sharpen lawn mower blades

Spring and Fall Maintenance

(on or around the first day of April and October)

• Perform all monthly and quarterly maintenance in addition to the following (where applicable):
• Clean gutters, downspouts, and roof eaves to remove leaves and debris
• Check connection between dryer and vent exhaust; repair as needed
• Check washing machine hoses and connections for cracks and leaks; repair or replace as necessary per manufacturer 
• Have an HVAC professional inspect and calibrate your heating and cooling system (start of heating and cooling season)
• Vacuum/clean window and sliding door tracks; lubricate with silicone spray
• Assess all exterior paint and caulk; check exterior caulk seals around windows, doors, etc.; repair as needed
• Drain and flush out hot water heater and verify that pressure relief valve is working (carefully follow manufacturer’s instructions)
• Inspect and maintain the flow of all swales, and culvert and drainage inlets and outlets
• Verify that there is no standing water in crawl spaces, all insulation is intact, and heating/cooling supply lines are secure
• Before the first freeze, disconnect exterior hoses and devices from hose bibs; if possible, shut off water to bib and drain
• Inspect foundation as directed by your Design Tech Homes representative
• Verify sprinkler system is functioning properly and adjust/repair as needed
• Flush out the sprinkler system in spring; prior to winter, flush out and drain the sprinkler system

Summer

(on or around the first day of July)

• Perform all monthly and quarterly maintenance in addition to the following (where applicable):
• Verify HVAC condensate drain is flowing freely while air conditioning is running
• Verify the float switch or overflow pan on a second-floor air handling unit is properly functioning and free from obstructions 
• Verify main water cutoff valve is accessible and functioning properly
• Have professional chimney sweep inspect and clean fireplace flue/chimney; check caulk around fireplace facing and repair as needed
• Apply water-seal treatment to all outdoor exposed wood (power-washing wood first may be necessary)
• Inspect roof for loose or missing shingles or flashing
• Clear/clean weep holes in brick siding
• Service septic system

Winter

(on or around the first day of January)

Perform all monthly and quarterly maintenance in addition to the following (where applicable):

• Remove ice buildup, snow, or any debris from roof when needed to prevent leaking
• During extreme cold, leave indoor faucets located on exterior walls dripping to prevent pipes freezing.