Seasonal home checklist
Forty jobs spread across the year, so nothing important waits until it breaks. Timing varies by climate: in warm southern states, fall and winter jobs are lighter; in cold northern states, do the fall list before the first hard freeze.
Spring
Check what winter did, and get ahead of storm and pest season.
- Look over the roof from the ground with binoculars for missing or damaged shingles Guide
- Clean gutters and confirm downspouts discharge away from the house Guide
- Walk the exterior: foundation, siding, caulk, windows and doors Guide
- Book an air conditioner or heat pump service and clear around the outdoor unit Guide
- Test the sump pump by filling the pit with water Guide
- Turn outdoor faucets back on and check for leaks Guide
- Start up irrigation and adjust heads so they do not spray the house Guide
- Look for termite signs: mud tubes, discarded wings, hollow wood Guide
- Test smoke and CO alarms and check manufacture dates Guide
- Refresh the emergency kit before storm season Guide
Summer
Keep cooling efficient, the yard in check, and the house protected while you travel.
- Check the HVAC filter and replace if dirty Guide
- Make sure the AC condensate line drains and the pan is dry Guide
- Inspect deck boards, railings and stairs; clean and reseal if needed Guide
- Trim branches away from the roof and siding Guide
- Empty standing water and check for wasp nests near doors Guide
- Check indoor humidity, especially in basements Guide
- Run the away-from-home list before any trip Guide
- Check exterior lights, locks and camera account passwords Guide
- Clean the dryer vent duct if it has been a year Guide
- Vacuum refrigerator coils and check door seals Guide
Fall Now
Get ready for cold weather before the first freeze.
- Book a furnace or heat pump service before the busy season Guide
- Disconnect garden hoses and shut off or drain outdoor faucets Guide
- Insulate pipes in unheated spaces Guide
- Clean gutters after most leaves have dropped Guide
- Find and seal drafts; replace worn weatherstripping Guide
- Seal gaps around pipes and vents before rodents move in Guide
- Winterize irrigation in freezing climates Guide
- Have the chimney inspected before using the fireplace Guide
- Test smoke and CO alarms Guide
- Do a fall exterior walk and photograph any cracks Guide
Winter
Protect pipes, watch for ice, and catch up on indoor and planning jobs.
- Keep the heat on, including when you are away Guide
- Watch for ice dams and large icicles at the roof edge Guide
- Check the furnace filter Guide
- Find, label and exercise the main water shutoff Guide
- Test GFCI outlets Guide
- Check space heaters and cords for damage Guide
- Update the home inventory video Guide
- Review your homeowners policy and coverage limits Guide
- Update system ages and next year's maintenance budget Guide
- Plan pruning for dormant trees Guide
General guidance only. Follow manufacturer instructions for your equipment and hire licensed professionals for electrical, gas, roofing and structural work.