Seasonal Home Maintenance Checklist: When to Call a Contractor
Maintaining your home seasonally prevents costly repairs and keeps everything running smoothly year-round.
Spring Maintenance
Exterior
[ ] Inspect roof for winter damage[ ] Clean gutters and downspouts[ ] Check for foundation cracks[ ] Power wash siding and deck[ ] Inspect and repair driveway/walkwayHVAC
[ ] Have AC system serviced before cooling season[ ] Replace furnace filter[ ] Check refrigerant levelsWhen to Call a Contractor
Roof damage or missing shinglesFoundation cracks or water damageHVAC not cooling properlyGutter system damageSummer Maintenance
Exterior
[ ] Water landscaping as needed[ ] Check windows and caulking[ ] Inspect exterior paint[ ] Check door seals and weatherstrippingInterior
[ ] Inspect bathroom and kitchen for leaks[ ] Check plumbing[ ] Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectorsWhen to Call a Contractor
Water stains on ceilings or wallsPlumbing issuesElectrical problemsBathroom or kitchen issuesFall Maintenance
Exterior
[ ] Clean gutters and downspouts (again)[ ] Inspect and seal windows[ ] Check weatherstripping[ ] Trim tree branches away from house[ ] Drain exterior faucetsHeating
[ ] Have furnace inspected and serviced[ ] Check heating ducts for leaks[ ] Have chimney cleaned if applicable[ ] Inspect fireplaceWhen to Call a Contractor
Furnace not workingChimney issuesWindow or door seals damagedRoof damage from stormsWinter Maintenance
Interior
[ ] Monitor heating system performance[ ] Check insulation in attic and basement[ ] Look for ice damming on roof[ ] Check basement for water seepageSafety
[ ] Keep gutters clear of ice/snow buildup[ ] Ensure proper drainage away from foundation[ ] Check basement for moisture issuesWhen to Call a Contractor
Heating system malfunctioningBasement flooding or moistureIce dams forming on roofFrozen pipesYear-Round Maintenance Tasks
Monthly
[ ] Test smoke/CO detectors[ ] Check for water leaks under sinks[ ] Inspect visible foundationQuarterly
[ ] Walk around exterior perimeter[ ] Check basement for moisture[ ] Inspect attic[ ] Check HVAC filtersAnnually
[ ] Full roof inspection[ ] Gutter cleaning[ ] HVAC service[ ] Plumbing inspection[ ] Electrical inspectionDIY vs. When to Call a Contractor
DIY Tasks
Changing filtersCleaning gutters (if comfortable with heights)CaulkingPaintingMinor repairsCall a Contractor
Roof workElectrical workPlumbing issuesHVAC problemsStructural concernsGas system issuesPermit-required workBudget-Friendly Tips
1. **Be Proactive** - Small maintenance now prevents big repairs later
2. **Keep Records** - Document maintenance and repairs
3. **Plan Ahead** - Schedule contractors in off-season for better rates
4. **Bundle Services** - Get one contractor to handle multiple issues
5. **Quality Over Price** - Paying for quality work saves money long-term
Conclusion
Following a seasonal maintenance schedule helps you catch problems early, maintain your home's value, and avoid emergency repairs. Use EZLY to find trusted contractors for maintenance and repairs when you need professional help.
