Check and repair caulk (if needed) around exterior surfaces & foundation
Check the condition of your deck and apply a waterproofing sealer if necessary
Clean gaps between deck boards above joists
Clean out under decks and porches
Scrape peeling paint, and apply touch up paint to your siding, trim, and fences
Roofs, Fireplace, Chimneys & Gutters
Check gutters, downspouts, and roof penetrations for leaks
Check roof for damaged or missing shingles or problems with flashing
Examine flashing around chimneys, vents, and roof edges
Call a professional chimney sweep if necessary
Check chimneys for obstructions such as nests
Check fireplace damper to enaure it operates smoothly
Check the chimney cap and the caulking between the cap and the chimney
Inspect fireplace firebrick and mortar for cracks and deterioration & patch small cracks
Inspect fireplace flues for "glassy" creosote buildup and have flues cleaned regularly
Yard, Drive/Walk ways, Grading & Drainage
Ensure that the ground around your home slopes away from the wall, so that water does not penetrate the house.
Fertilize and reseed your lawn
Cut back perennials
Repair and paint fences as necessary
Trim any trees or shrubs that touch house & prune others
Doors and Windows
Check screws on door lock sets and hardware, tighten up if needed
Check the caulking for exterior windows and doors
Ensure all doors to the outside shut tightly, and check other doors for ease of use
Ensure windows and skylights close tightly
Inspect and replace (if needed) weather stripping
Renew door weatherstripping if required
Plumbing & HWH
Examine hot water heater pressure-temperature relief valve for leaking, and test, if desired
Check for potential leaks and water penetration under and around sinks, toilets, showers and tubs.
Have well water tested every 6 months for quality & bacteria
If you have a septic tank, measure the sludge and scum to determine if the tank needs to be emptied before the spring. Tanks should be pumped out at least once every three years
Heating & Cooling
Checking for disconnected or crushed ductwork & repair as needed
Clean around air conditioning units & cover until spring
Hiring a professional HVAC technician to inspect your home's heating systems for proper functioning prior to the season of use
Remove the grilles on forced air systems and vacuum inside the ducts
Seal duct leaks and insulate ducts to reduce energy loss
Vacuum registers, vents, & ducts to remove dust
Interior General
Check & vacuum smoke, carbon monoxide and security alarms and replace batteries