Homeowner To-Do Checklist

Congratulations you’ve moved into your new house in the DMV area! Now what? There are certain tasks you should do to keep your house running smoothly, efficiently, and safely. Read below for our best tips on how to care for and maintain your home.

Spring

Annual Tasks:

o   Inspect and clean gutters to remove winter debris.

o   Service lawn equipment: sharpen blades and change oil.

o   Check for winter damage to siding, roof, and foundation.

o   Prepare AC for summer: schedule a professional inspection.

o   Fertilize lawn to promote growth.

o   Inspect and repair driveway and walkways.

Quarterly Tasks:

o   Inspect plumbing for leaks under sinks and around appliances.

o   Clean range hood filters to remove grease and grime.

o   Inspect and clean dryer vents to prevent fire hazards.

o   Test sump pump to ensure it’s in working order.

o   Inspect exterior drainage to ensure water is draining away from the house.

Monthly Tasks:

o   Change HVAC filters to maintain air quality and system efficiency.

o   Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to ensure they’re functioning correctly.

o   Inspect fire extinguishers: check pressure and accessibility.

o   Clean garbage disposal using baking soda and vinegar.

o   Check water heater for leaks and proper operation.

o   Inspect houseplants for pests and water as needed.

Summer

Annual Tasks:

o   Inspect and clean windows and screens.

o   Inspect deck and patio: clean and seal if necessary.

o   Trim trees and shrubs to prevent overgrowth and damage to your home.

o   Clean outdoor furniture for summer use.

o   Pressure wash exterior: clean siding, driveway, and walkways.

Quarterly Tasks:

o   Inspect plumbing for leaks under sinks and around appliances.

o   Clean range hood filters to remove grease and grime.

o   Inspect and clean dryer vents to prevent fire hazards.

o   Test sump pump to ensure it’s in working order.

o   Inspect exterior drainage to ensure water is draining away from the house.

Monthly Tasks:

o   Change HVAC filters to maintain air quality and system efficiency.

o   Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to ensure they’re functioning correctly.

o   Inspect fire extinguishers: check pressure and accessibility.

o   Clean garbage disposal using baking soda and vinegar.

o   Check water heater for leaks and proper operation.

o   Inspect houseplants for pests and water as needed.

Fall

Annual Tasks:

o   Clean and store outdoor furniture.

o   Inspect and clean chimney: schedule a professional cleaning.

o   Rake leaves and clean yard to prepare for winter.

o   Inspect roof and attic for leaks and insulation issues.

o   Service heating system to ensure it’s ready for colder weather.

Quarterly Tasks:

o   Inspect plumbing for leaks under sinks and around appliances.

o   Clean range hood filters to remove grease and grime.

o   Inspect and clean dryer vents to prevent fire hazards.

o   Test sump pump to ensure it’s in working order.

o   Inspect exterior drainage to ensure water is draining away from the house.

Monthly Tasks:

o   Change HVAC filters to maintain air quality and system efficiency.

o   Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to ensure they’re functioning correctly.

o   Inspect fire extinguishers: check pressure and accessibility.

o   Clean garbage disposal using baking soda and vinegar.

o   Check water heater for leaks and proper operation.

o   Inspect houseplants for pests and water as needed.

Winter

Annual Tasks:

o   Inspect insulation in attic and walls.

o   Check for drafts: seal windows and doors to improve energy efficiency.

o   Inspect and clean humidifiers to maintain indoor air quality.

o   Check emergency supplies and stock up on winter essentials.

o   Replace range hood filters: prepare your home for the holidays by replacing the range hood filters, so you are prepared for any extra cooking you might be doing.

Quarterly Tasks:

o   Inspect plumbing for leaks under sinks and around appliances.

o   Clean range hood filters to remove grease and grime.

o   Inspect and clean dryer vents to prevent fire hazards.

o   Test sump pump to ensure it’s in working order.

o   Inspect exterior drainage to ensure water is draining away from the house.

Monthly Tasks:

o   Change HVAC filters to maintain air quality and system efficiency.

o   Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to ensure they’re functioning correctly.

o   Inspect fire extinguishers: check pressure and accessibility.

o   Clean garbage disposal using baking soda and vinegar.

o   Check water heater for leaks and proper operation.

o   Inspect houseplants for pests and water as needed.

Additional Tips

o   Energy Efficiency: Consider scheduling an energy audit to identify areas where you can save on utility bills.

o   Home Security: Regularly check and update your home security systems, including cameras and alarms.

o   Landscaping: Plan and implement landscaping projects in spring and fall for optimal growth and maintenance.

o   Test devices and replace batteries: test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors/replace batteries as needed.