Home Maintenance Schedule Checklist

All homeowners should understand that their homes require regular care and maintenance.  As time passes, the components of your house may exhibit wear and tear, break down, leak or age past their life expectancy.   Even the most careful homeowners can overlook regular maintenance or fail to notice items in need of repair.

As home inspectors, we note these items during a home inspection – usually when a property is about to change hands.   If you are planning to sell your home soon, or if you plan to keep your home for years and want to ensure that it is being well-maintained, you can schedule a Home Maintenance Checkup with a reputable and licensed home inspection company. This will help you address minor items before they become major.

Here is a checklist of actions you can incorporate into your regular maintenance in order to keep your house in great shape.

• Change the backup batteries in smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms and dust their covers.  If the alarm is more than 10 years old, it must be replaced to comply with new Maryland laws in effect January 1, 2018. 
• Change furnace and A/C filters.
• Check fire extinguishers.
• Clean out gutters and downspouts.  
• Schedule an appointment with a chimney sweep.
• Check all window seals for signs of moisture intrusion.
• Check the attic and basement for leaks.
• Check for damage to your roof.
• Check your water heater for leaks or signs of rust.
• Clean the kitchen exhaust hood and air filter.
• Clean the clothes dryer exhaust duct and damper, and the space under the dryer.
• Check the exterior siding for damage.
• Check all window and door locks.
• Check your home for plumbing leaks.
• Confirm that firewood is stored at least 20 feet away from your home.
• Familiarize responsible family members with the gas main valve and other main shutoff valves.
• Test all GFCI receptacles/outlets.  
• Review your emergency escape plan with your family.
• Make sure your house number is visible from the street for first responders to see.
• Replace all extension cords that have become brittle, worn or damaged.
• Check the installation of your oven to ensure the presence of an anti-tip bracket.
• Per Environmental Protection Agency recommendation, check the radon level in your home every 2 years.
• Call Fox Mountain Property Inspections or email us at clientcare@foxmountainpropertyinspection.kinsta.cloud  to schedule a Home Maintenance Inspection or radon test.