Home Maintenance Checklist for New Homeowners: What to Do Monthly and Each Season

• Check for leaks. Look under sinks, around toilets, near the water heater, around the dishwasher, washing machine, and refrigerator water line. Compare your water bill to prior months if something seems off. EPA also suggests using your water meter during a period of no water use to help spot hidden leaks. ([epa.gov](https://www.epa.gov/watersense/home-maintenance?utm_source=openai))
• Check the HVAC filter. Inspect it every month, especially during heavy heating and cooling seasons. Change it if it looks dirty; at minimum, change it every three months. A dirty filter can restrict airflow and contribute to early equipment problems. ([energystar.gov](https://www.energystar.gov/saveathome/heating-cooling?utm_source=openai))
• Test smoke and carbon monoxide alarms. Use the test button monthly. CPSC recommends CO alarms on every level and outside sleeping areas, and smoke alarms on every level, outside sleeping areas, and inside each bedroom. ([cpsc.gov](https://www.cpsc.gov/Safety-Education/Safety-Education-Centers/Carbon-Monoxide-Information-Center/CO-Alarms?utm_source=openai))
• Clean the dryer lint screen. Do it before every load, not just once a month. Then use the monthly check to look behind the dryer for crushed ducting or lint buildup. USFA says failure to clean was the leading factor contributing to ignition in home clothes dryer fires from 2018 to 2020. ([usfa.fema.gov](https://www.usfa.fema.gov/gallery/pictographs/appliance-electrical.html?utm_source=openai))
• Walk the exterior after heavy rain. Look for standing water near the foundation, overflowing gutters, drips from hose bibs, and downspouts dumping water too close to the house. ([epa.gov](https://www.epa.gov/system/files/documents/2023-02/Indoor%20airPLUS%20V2%20Certified%20QA%20Checklist_508%20Compliant.pdf?utm_source=openai))
• Look and smell for moisture problems. Musty odor, peeling paint, damp drywall, and condensation are worth taking seriously. CDC says mold grows where there is moisture, including around roof, window, and pipe leaks. ([cdc.gov](https://www.cdc.gov/mold-health/?utm_source=openai))

1. Spring: clean gutters if needed, make sure downspouts move water away from the house, inspect caulk and exterior paint, look for roof or siding damage after winter, and check irrigation for leaks or overspray. EPA recommends spring irrigation checkups and regular leak monitoring. ([epa.gov](https://www.epa.gov/watersense/sprinkler-spruce-up?utm_source=openai))
2. Summer: keep vegetation from crowding siding and AC equipment, check for slow plumbing leaks, inspect window and door seals, and stay on top of cooling-season filter checks. ([energystar.gov](https://www.energystar.gov/saveathome/heating-cooling?utm_source=openai))
3. Fall: clear leaves from gutters and drains, test heating equipment before cold weather sets in, replace the filter if needed, and disconnect hoses if you live where freezes happen. ENERGY STAR recommends yearly HVAC tune-ups. ([energystar.gov](https://www.energystar.gov/saveathome/heating-cooling?utm_source=openai))
4. Winter: watch for ice, condensation, frozen pipes, and drafts. If a storm or pipe leak leads to wet materials, dry the area quickly. CDC says mold can grow where there is moisture and recommends drying out flood-affected spaces promptly and cleaning safely. ([cdc.gov](https://www.cdc.gov/mold-health/?utm_source=openai))

Usually reasonable DIY tasks

• Changing HVAC filters
• Testing alarms
• Checking for leaks
• Cleaning lint screens
• Basic gutter cleaning on a safe, manageable setup
• Replacing toilet flappers or faucet aerators if you are comfortable

Usually worth calling a pro

• Roof leaks you cannot clearly trace
• Electrical issues beyond simple fixture swaps
• HVAC repairs or combustion problems
• Hidden plumbing leaks or recurring drain backups
• Large mold problems, especially if anyone in the home has asthma, immune suppression, or other respiratory risk factors

CDC says some people should not take part in mold cleanup, including people with allergies, asthma or COPD, immune suppression, or underlying lung disease. ([cdc.gov](https://www.cdc.gov/mold-health/about/clean-up.html?utm_source=openai))

• Every month: leaks, alarms, filter check, dryer area, quick exterior walk.
• Every 3 months: likely filter change, deep clean around appliances, review any new stains or cracks.
• Spring and fall: gutters, drainage, HVAC service timing, exterior sealants, yard grading check.
• Once a year: water heater inspection and maintenance based on the manual, toilet leak dye test, review emergency shutoffs, and replace alarm batteries if your units require it. EPA recommends annual water heater checks and toilet leak checks. ([epa.gov](https://www.epa.gov/watersense/home-maintenance?utm_source=openai))