First-year home maintenance checklist

The first year in a new home is when you learn how it behaves. A short routine and a small repair fund will prevent most expensive surprises.

The short version: locate your shut-offs, test your safety devices, check the major systems each season and set aside money for repairs.

In the first week

• Find the main water shut-off, electrical panel and gas shut-off, and label them.
• Test smoke and carbon monoxide alarms and replace batteries.
• Change the locks or codes.
• Find the furnace filter size and replace the filter.
• Save the inspection report and warranty papers.
• Check for leaks under sinks and around the water heater.

Spring

• Clean gutters and check that downspouts drain away from the house.
• Look at the roof from the ground for missing shingles.
• Look for winter damage on the foundation, fence and deck.
• Service the air conditioner and open the outdoor water taps.

Summer

• Check caulking around windows, doors and tubs.
• Inspect the deck, and trim trees away from the house.
• Watch humidity in the basement.

Fall

• Clean gutters again after the leaves fall.
• Have the furnace serviced, and replace the filter.
• Shut off and drain outdoor taps, and disconnect hoses.
• Seal gaps where drafts or pests may get in.
• Test the sump pump if you have one.

Winter

• Keep snow clear of vents, exhausts and the furnace intake.
• Watch for ice dams and frozen pipes.
• Check for condensation and mould on windows.

Monthly and yearly

Check filters and test alarms monthly. Flush the water heater and check the dryer vent yearly.

Budget for repairs

A common rule of thumb is to budget 1% to 3% of the home's value a year for maintenance, though older homes may need more. Treat this as a rough guide, and adjust for the age and condition of the home.

Example

On a $600,000 home, 1% is $6,000 a year, or $500 a month into a repair account.

Keep records

Keep a folder or file with receipts, dates and photos. It helps with warranty claims, insurance and resale.