The Ultimate Home Maintenance Checklist
The Ultimate Home Maintenance Checklist
Home maintenance checklist
For most of us, our home is the biggest investment we’ll ever make–so it makes sense to take good care of it! While regular maintenance might not be the most exciting item on your to-do list, it’s the smartest way to avoid costly, unexpected repairs down the road.
With the right home maintenance checklist and a bit of planning, you can protect your investment and enjoy peace of mind all year long. Keep reading to learn more about the essential maintenance tasks every homeowner should know to keep their home safe, comfortable, and valuable.
Annual home maintenance checklist
Annual maintenance is your home’s yearly deep clean and checkup. By planning ahead for these bigger tasks, you’ll help prevent surprises and keep everything running smoothly in your home.
Annual home maintenance costs can average 1% to 4% of the home's value each year, depending on your home's age, size, location, features, and condition. The following table details the most commonly recommended yearly home maintenance tasks.
| ✓ | Annual tasks | Average cost |
|---|---|---|
| Electrical inspection | $100 – $200 | |
| HVAC tune-up | $70 – $200 | |
| Furnace inspection | $70 – $130 | |
| Termite inspection | $75 – $150 | |
| Roof inspection | $100 – $400 | |
| Gutter cleaning | $100 – $250 | |
| Septic inspection | $150 – $450 | |
| Water heater flush | $75 – $350 | |
| Pool inspection | $200 – $500 | |
| Power washing (home exterior) | $170 – $310 | |
| Lawn mower tune-up | $50 – $200 | |
| Fire extinguisher inspection | $40 – $100 |
Electrical inspection
A yearly electrical inspection costs $100 to $200 and includes checking your breaker panel, outlets, and wiring for safety hazards or wear. This service helps prevent electrical fires and ensures your system is up to code. Regular inspections are especially important in older homes or areas prone to power surges and lightning, which can cause hidden damage.
HVAC tune-up
A yearly HVAC tune-up costs $70 to $200 for professional service to keep your heating and cooling systems running efficiently and help prevent unexpected breakdowns. In warmer climates, this is especially important to ensure your air conditioning can handle the summer heat.
Furnace inspection
An annual furnace inspection costs from $70 to $130 and includes a diagnostic check and basic cleaning. This yearly service keeps your heating system clean, safe, and ready to perform when cold weather hits, which is especially important in colder climates where reliable heat is essential for comfort and safety.
Termite inspection
An annual termite inspection costs $75 to $150 and is essential for protecting your home from costly structural damage. A professional inspection helps catch infestations early, saving you thousands in repairs and keeping your home safe and sound.
Roof inspection
A once-a-year roof inspection costs $100 to $400 and helps you spot leaks or damaged shingles before they lead to costly water damage. Homes in areas with severe weather, like hurricanes or heavy snow, should be especially diligent with this task.
Gutter cleaning
Cleaning your gutters annually costs $100 to $250 and prevents water from backing up and damaging your roof, siding, or foundation. In regions with lots of trees or heavy fall leaf drop, you may need to clean gutters more often.
Septic inspection
If your home uses a septic system, an annual inspection helps prevent messy backups and costly repairs by catching issues early. A septic inspection costs $150 to $450 for regular maintenance checks that help extend the life of your septic system and keep everything running smoothly.
Water heater flush
Flushing your water heater removes sediment buildup, improving efficiency and extending the life of the unit. The average cost to flush a standard water heater is $75 to $150, while a tankless water heater flush costs $150 to $350. This annual task is especially important in areas with hard water.
Performing a water heater flush can be a simple DIY task with supplies costing $10 to $20. Keep in mind that it must be done properly to avoid damage, especially for tankless models.
Pool inspection
An annual pool inspection costs $200 to $500 and checks the structure and equipment to keep your pool safe and ready for use. Schedule your annual pool inspection in early spring, before warmer weather arrives, to catch issues early and enjoy a safe, well-maintained pool all season long.
Power washing
Power washing your home’s exterior removes dirt, mold, and mildew, keeping your home looking fresh. Power washing a house costs $170 to $310 on average for a professional service that uses hot water for better cleaning. You can also rent a power washer to save on costs.
For most homes, an annual power washing is sufficient. Coastal homes may need this more often due to salt and humidity.
Lawn mower tune-up
When you're scheduling your annual maintenance tasks, don't forget about your lawn mower. A basic lawnmower tune-up costs $50 to $200 and keeps your lawn mower running smoothly, so you can maintain a healthy lawn. In regions with long growing seasons, regular mower maintenance is especially helpful.
Fire extinguisher inspection
A fire extinguisher inspection costs $40 to $100 and ensures your extinguishers are fully charged, accessible, and ready for emergencies. Annual professional checks confirm each unit meets safety standards and is in good working order. This simple step gives peace of mind and helps you respond quickly to a fire.
Seasonal home maintenance checklist
While annual tasks cover the big-picture upkeep, seasonal maintenance helps you stay on top of the smaller but important jobs that come with changing weather. Performing routine seasonal maintenance ensures your home is always ready for whatever the weather brings–whether it’s summer heat, winter chills, or anything in between.
| ✓ | Seasonal tasks | Season(s) | Includes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Indoor systems check | Any season | Smoke/CO detector testing, sump pump | |
| Seasonal cleaning | Spring (or as needed) | Deep cleaning garage, windows, and screens | |
| Lawn maintenance | Spring, Summer, Fall | Mowing, trimming, fertilizing, pest control | |
| Tree & shrub care | Spring, Summer, Fall | Pruning, trimming, health inspections | |
| Pool maintenance | Spring, Summer, Fall | Opening/closing pool, cleaning, chemicals | |
| Pest control | Spring, Summer, Fall | Inspection, treatments for insects and rodents | |
| Home exterior care | Spring, Summer, Fall | Painting touch-ups, deck repairs | |
| Chimney & fireplace | Fall | Inspection and cleaning before winter use | |
| Plumbing protection | Fall, Winter | Winterizing outdoor faucets, insulating pipes | |
| Weatherproofing | Fall, Winter | Sealing, insulation, weatherstripping |
Spring home maintenance checklist
There’s nothing like a good spring cleaning to freshen up your home and get everything ready for the sunny months ahead. This season is ideal for tackling both indoor and outdoor maintenance tasks that prepare your home for comfortable living and outdoor enjoyment.
| ✓ | Spring tasks | Average cost | Pro needed? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trim trees cost | $50 – $125 per hour | Yes | |
| Trim shrubs and bushes cost | $40 – $75 per hour | Optional | |
| Clean dryer vent cost | $80 – $250 | Optional | |
| Pest control cost | $100 – $600 | Yes | |
| Clean and inspect sump pump cost | $100 – $250 | Yes | |
| Open pool for season cost | $150 – $400 | Optional (pro recommended) | |
| Test smoke/CO detectors | $0 – $50 (DIY) | No | |
| Deep clean garage | $0 – $100 (DIY) | No | |
| Check your storm windows | $0 to $150 | Optional (pro recommended) |
Summer home maintenance checklist
Summer is all about keeping your home cool, clean, and ready for outdoor enjoyment. These tasks help you maintain comfort, boost curb appeal, and make the most of the season’s longer days.
| ✓ | Summer tasks | Average cost | Pro needed? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wash windows and screens | $100 – $150 | Optional | |
| Seal windows and doors | $50 – $200 | Optional (pro recommended) | |
| Maintain lawn and garden | $0 – $300 | Optional | |
| Inspect outdoor lighting | $0 – $100 | Optional | |
| Pool maintenance cost | $80 – $150 per month | Optional (pro recommended) | |
| Clean the air conditioner | $100 – $400 | Yes, DIY may void warranty |
Fall home maintenance checklist
Fall is the ideal season to prepare your home for the colder months ahead, protecting it from winter’s snow, wind, and rain. By focusing on key areas like your heating system, gutters, and exterior, you can prevent costly damage and ensure your home stays safe and comfortable.
| ✓ | Autumn tasks | Average cost | Pro needed? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Inspect heating system and change filters | $70 – $130 | Yes | |
| Inspect and clean chimney/fireplace cost | $100 – $600 | Yes | |
| Weatherstripping cost | $130 – $470 | Optional | |
| Winterize sprinkler system cost | $50 – $150 | Optional | |
| Protect pipes from freezing | $20 – $200 | Optional | |
| Seal gaps and insulate around your home | $10 – $500+ | Optional | |
| Clean and repair gutters and downspouts | $0 – $250 | Yes, safety risk | |
| Rake leaves and prepare lawn | $0 | No, easy DIY |
Winter home maintenance checklist
Winter can be tough on your home, but a few smart steps can help you avoid costly headaches. Staying alert to problems like frozen pipes, heavy snow, and ice dams can make all the difference. These winter home maintenance tasks can keep your home protected and your season stress-free:
| ✓ | Winter tasks | Average cost | Pro needed? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Inspect pipes for freezing | $0 – $100 | Yes | |
| Prep snow removal gear (blower, salt) | $0 – $100 | Optional | |
| Inspect the roof for ice dams/snow load | $0 – $500+ | Yes, safety risk | |
| Store outdoor furniture | $0 – $150 | No | |
| Snow removal costs | $200 to $600 per season | Optional | |
| Ice dam removal costs | $800 – $2,400 | Yes, safety risk |
Home safety checklist
Keeping your home safe and prepared for emergencies is just as important as regular maintenance. Use this checklist to help protect your family and property from fire, severe weather, and other unexpected events.
| ✓ | Task | Frequency | Pro needed? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors | Monthly | No | |
| Replace smoke/CO detector batteries | Annually | No | |
| Inspect and service fire extinguishers | Annually | Yes | |
| Check all door and window locks | Annually | No | |
| Review and update family emergency plan | Before storm season | No | |
| Stock emergency supplies (water, food, batteries, first aid) | Before storm season | No | |
| Inspect and maintain storm shutters/impact windows | Before storm season | Optional |
For maximum protection, combine these safety checks with your annual and seasonal maintenance routines. A few minutes each year can make a big difference in your family’s safety and peace of mind.
Getting estimates for home maintenance service
Follow these suggestions when searching for home maintenance services near you:
Get multiple estimates from different providers to compare prices and services.
Request detailed, written estimates that clearly break down labor, materials, and any extra fees.
Be specific about the work you need done and ask what’s included in each estimate.
Verify experience, insurance, and references to ensure reliability.
Confirm availability and timelines, especially for seasonal tasks that may be time-sensitive.
Don’t choose solely based on price; consider overall value, experience, and reviews.
Use a checklist or comparison sheet to keep track of estimates and services.
Questions to ask when getting estimates
Ask potential contractors these questions to help ensure you hire a reliable professional for all your home maintenance needs.
What specific services did you include in this estimate?
Can you provide a detailed, written breakdown of labor, materials, and any additional fees?
How long have you been in business, and do you have experience with projects like mine?
Are you licensed and insured? Can you provide proof?
Can you share references from recent clients?
What is your timeline for starting and completing the job?
Is cleanup included in the estimate?
How do you handle warranty or follow-up service if problems occur after the job is done?
Using our proprietary cost database, in-depth research, and collaboration with industry experts, we deliver accurate, up-to-date pricing and insights you can trust, every time.