Owning a home comes with its own set of responsibilities, and regular maintenance is crucial to
ensure everything runs smoothly and efficiently. By dedicating a little time each month to home
maintenance, you can prevent larger, more expensive issues down the road. Here’s a simple
checklist of ten tasks to keep your home in tip-top shape.

1. Inspect and Clean Gutters

Regular gutter inspection and cleaning are essential to prevent water damage. Use a gloves and a
sturdy ladder to remove debris, then flush your gutters with a hose to ensure clear water flow.
Check for and repair any damage. This simple task helps avoid costly roof, basement, and
foundation issues. Consider installing gutter guards to reduce cleaning frequency.

2. Clean the Kitchen Exhaust Fan Filter

Cleaning your kitchen exhaust fan filter is vital for maintaining good ventilation and reducing fire
hazards. Remove the filter, wash it with warm soapy water, and let it dry completely before
reinstalling. This helps keep your kitchen air clean and ensures your exhaust fan works efficiently.

3. Inspect Fire Extinguishers

Check your fire extinguishers to ensure they are ready for emergencies. Verify that the pressure
gauge is in the green zone, the pin is intact, and there are no signs of damage. This simple
inspection helps keep your home safe and prepared.

4. Check for Plumbing Leaks

Inspect areas around sinks, toilets, and appliances for signs of damage or mould. Listen for
dripping sounds and monitor your water meter for any unusual activity. Check exposed pipes for
leaks or corrosion. By staying proactive, you can avoid costly repairs and preserve your home.

5. Inspect Roof and Attic

During a roof inspection, carefully examine the condition of your shingles or roofing materials for
signs of damage, such as cracks, curling, or missing pieces. Pay attention to areas around
chimneys, vents, and skylights, as these are common areas where leaks can occur. Inspect the
flashing and seals to ensure they are intact and effectively divert water away from vulnerable areas.

6. Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

To conduct a thorough test, simply press the test button on each detector and listen for the alarm
to sound. This quick test should be performed monthly to ensure that the detectors are functioning
correctly and that the batteries are still operational. Additionally, it’s essential to periodically clean
the detectors to remove dust and debris that could interfere with their performance.

7. Check for Cracks in Sidewalks and Driveways

Check for cracks along edges, expansion joints, and where the driveway meets the garage or
street. Measure the width, length, and depth of any cracks to assess the severity of the damage.
Small cracks can often be repaired with DIY solutions, while larger cracks may require professional
attention. Take proactive measures to prevent future damage, such as maintaining proper drainage
and avoiding heavy vehicles on the surfaces. By addressing issues promptly, you can ensure the
safety and longevity of these essential features of your home’s exterior.

8. Trim Trees and Shrubs

Trimming trees and shrubs around your home is essential for maintaining a tidy appearance,
preventing property damage, and promoting healthy growth. Walk around your property to identify
overgrown branches or shrubs, then use proper tools to trim them back safely. Focus on removing
dead or diseased branches and shaping shrubs to maintain a neat appearance. Proper disposal of
trimmed branches and debris is also important.

9. Maintain Outdoor Lighting

Replace burnt-out bulbs promptly to maintain consistent lighting levels. Additionally, clean fixtures
regularly to remove dirt and debris, optimizing light output and extending the lifespan of your
lighting fixtures. Create a safer and more secure environment for your home by prioritizing outdoor
lighting maintenance.

10. Examining Windows and Doors

Look for cracks, gaps, or warping in the frames that could compromise insulation and allow drafts.
Check the weatherstripping and seals around windows and doors to ensure they create a tight seal
when closed, preventing air leaks and moisture infiltration. Test the operation of windows and doors by opening and closing them to ensure they move smoothly along their tracks or hinges. Pay attention to any sticking, grinding, or difficulty operating, as it may indicate underlying issues that require attention. Verify that locks and latches are functioning correctly to maintain security.

Bonus Tips for a Well-Maintained Home

• Keep a Maintenance Log: Track your maintenance tasks and note any repairs or
  replacements needed.
• Create a Seasonal Checklist: Some tasks, like checking the furnace or cleaning gutters,
  are best done seasonally.
• Stay Organized: Keep all your home maintenance tools and supplies in a dedicated space.

Regular home maintenance doesn’t have to be daunting. By breaking it down into manageable
monthly tasks, you can keep your home in excellent condition with minimal effort.

Feel free to reach out if you need more tips!

Happy maintaining!