Imagine catching a leaky roof before it becomes a flood or spotting a crack in the foundation before it threatens your home’s stability. A yearly home maintenance inspection empowers you to identify small issues early, saving you time, money, and headaches. With a simple checklist and a little effort, you can keep your home in tip-top shape and avoid costly surprises down the road. Use this list as your guide to stay ahead of potential problems.

Gather Your Supplies

• Binoculars (for roof inspection)
• Flashlight (for inspecting dimly lit spaces)
• Ladder (to reach roofs, gutters, and higher areas)
• Electrical tester (to check outlets and circuits; ask your local hardware store for guidance)
• Moisture meter (to detect hidden dampness)
• Screwdriver set (for tightening fixtures and covers)
• Smartphone or camera (to document areas of concern)
• Notepad and pen (for notetaking and listing repairs that need to be made)

Roof

• Conduct a visual inspection of your roof from the ground with binoculars. If necessary, climb the ladder to get a closer look.
• Look for missing or damaged shingles, rusted or damaged flashing around vents, chimneys, or skylights.
• Check for signs of moss or algae and debris accumulation.
• Clear any debris from clogged gutters and downspouts. Check that your gutters, gutter guards, and downspouts are in good condition.
• Make sure the downspouts direct water away from your foundation.
• Look under your roof from inside the attic for water stains, wet insulation, or visible leaks.

Exterior: Siding, Windows, and Doors

• Inspect siding for cracks, warping, or peeling paint.
• Look for crumbling stucco, brick, or loose mortar.
• Check where two materials (like siding and brick) meet. These areas are prone to water infiltration.
• Examine caulking and weather stripping for cracks or gaps. Check seals for drafts or moisture buildup.
• Test windows and doors to ensure they open and close smoothly without sticking.

Foundation and Grading

• Walk the perimeter of your home. Check that the ground slopes away from the foundation to prevent puddles of standing water.
• Look for cracks, bulges, or other structural concerns. Small hairline cracks are normal, but large gaps or shifts require professional attention.
• Monitor retaining walls for signs of leaning or crumbling.

Walls, Ceilings, and Floors

• Inspect interior walls and ceilings for discoloration, bubbling paint, or peeling wallpaper.
• Look for cracks above doors or windows, which could indicate the foundation settling.
• Check floors for unevenness, soft spots, or squeaks.
• Look for stains or damage that may signal underlying issues.
• Pay extra attention to beams, joists, and trusses for structural damage.

Basement, Attic, and Crawl Spaces

• Look for signs of moisture or mold. Check walls and floors for dampness or mildew.
• Ensure attic insulation is intact and not blocking vents.
• Make sure there are no signs of pests.
• Examine floor joists and roof supports for sagging, cracking, or insect damage.
• Verify that crawl spaces are free of standing water and adequately ventilated.

HVAC System

• Test heating and cooling systems. Turn them on to check for unusual sounds or odors.
• Replace air filters and clean vent covers.
• Inspect the furnace and air conditioning units for rust, leaks, or wear.
• Verify that bathroom and kitchen exhaust fans vent to the exterior and are free of debris.

Electrical System

• Test outlets with an electrical tester.
• Inspect the electrical panel for scorch marks, loose wires, or burning smells.
• Replace batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and test that they work.
• Secure loose outlet covers and check visible wiring for fraying or damage.

Plumbing System

• Check faucets, showerheads, and toilets for leaks, drips or corrosion.
• Check for loose handles or connections.
• Test water pressure and observe how quickly sinks and tubs drain.
• Inspect under sinks and around toilets for water stains, dampness, or mold.

Appliances

• Garbage disposal: Clean thoroughly and check for blockages.
• Water heater: Flush to remove sediment and extend its lifespan.
• Refrigerator and freezer: Clean coils and empty drip trays.
• Fire extinguishers: Check the pressure gauge and expiration date.

If you’re not comfortable doing a home inspection yourself, consider hiring a professional home inspector. This typically costs about the same as when you hire an inspector to check out a home you’re going to buy. When you are ready to make repairs, and you cannot do them yourself, make sure to hire a reputable contractor.

Finally, your home is one of your greatest investments. Be sure to protect it with the right insurance for added peace of mind.