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A seasonal home maintenance checklist

By Brainy Planner · Updated October 14, 2026

Small, regular maintenance is cheaper than big repairs. Use this list as a starting point and adjust it for your climate, your house and any manufacturer instructions.

Spring

• Walk around the outside and look for damage after winter: roof, siding, foundation, windows.
• Clean gutters and check that downspouts carry water away from the house.
• Check outdoor faucets and irrigation for leaks before use.
• Service cooling equipment before the warm season.
• Test smoke and carbon monoxide alarms; follow the manufacturer's replacement schedule.

Summer

• Look at decks, fences and exterior wood for rot, cracks or worn finish.
• Clean or replace HVAC filters on the schedule the manufacturer recommends.
• Check caulk and seals around windows and doors.
• Inspect the attic or crawlspace for moisture or pests.

Fall

• Clean gutters again after leaves drop.
• Have heating equipment checked before the cold season.
• Seal gaps where drafts or pests could get in.
• Drain and store hoses and shut off outdoor water where freezing is possible.
• Check the roof from the ground, or hire a professional, before bad weather.

Winter

• Know where your main water shut-off is, and how to use it.
• Watch for ice dams, drafts and condensation on windows.
• Test alarms and check the fire extinguisher gauge.
• Keep a short list of trusted contacts for emergencies.

Keep records

Write down what you did, the date, who did it and what it cost. Keep model and serial numbers, paint colours, warranty dates and manuals in one place. When you sell the house, a clear record shows buyers it was cared for, and when something breaks you will know its age.

A printable binder makes this easy: the Home Maintenance Planner & Home Binder has seasonal checklists and record pages, and the Zone Cleaning & Household Routines Binder covers regular cleaning.