Home Maintenance Checklist

The recurring, non-seasonal maintenance tasks that keep a home running smoothly and catch small problems early.

Regular maintenance is what keeps small issues from becoming expensive ones. This checklist covers the recurring tasks worth tracking on an ongoing basis, separate from season-specific work (see our Seasonal Home Maintenance Guide for that).

Monthly

Check and replace HVAC/furnace filters if needed — a dirty filter reduces efficiency and air quality.
Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors by pressing the test button.
Run water in unused drains (like a guest bathroom or basement floor drain) to keep the trap seal from drying out and letting sewer gas in.
Inspect under sinks for any signs of slow leaks or moisture.

Quarterly

Clean the garbage disposal and check for unusual noises.
Check the water heater for any signs of rust, leaks, or corrosion around the base.
Inspect caulking around tubs, showers, and sinks for gaps that could let water damage develop.
Test the garage door’s auto-reverse safety feature, if applicable.
Vacuum the refrigerator coils to keep it running efficiently.

Twice a year

Replace smoke and carbon monoxide detector batteries (a common rule of thumb: when clocks change for daylight saving time).
Flush the water heater to clear sediment buildup, which extends its lifespan.
Check exterior faucets and hoses for leaks or winter damage.
Inspect the roof and attic for signs of leaks, pests, or damaged shingles.

Annually

Have the furnace/HVAC system professionally serviced before the heating or cooling season starts.
Clean dryer vents — a major, often overlooked fire-risk reduction task.
Check the foundation for new cracks or settling.
Test the sump pump, if your home has one, by pouring water into the pit.
Review your home or renter’s insurance policy to confirm coverage still matches your needs.

When something seems off

Address small issues — a slow drain, a slightly loose handle, a faint musty smell — as soon as you notice them. In a rental, that means submitting a maintenance request promptly rather than waiting; small problems reported early are almost always cheaper and easier to fix than the same problem after months of being ignored.