How to use this: Bookmark this page and check the current month. You do not need to do everything at once. Start with safety, water, weather and anything that could become expensive if ignored.
January — Protect & inspect
- Check for plumbing leaks and signs of frozen-pipe trouble.
- Inspect weatherstripping around exterior doors.
- Review smoke and carbon monoxide alarms.
- Look for condensation, moisture or attic ventilation problems.
February — Indoor systems
- Replace or inspect HVAC filters as appropriate for your system.
- Clean dryer lint areas beyond the removable screen.
- Check under sinks and around toilets for slow leaks.
- Make a spring project and repair list before contractors get busy.
March — Spring readiness
- Walk the exterior for winter damage.
- Inspect gutters and downspouts from the ground and clean safely when needed.
- Check outdoor faucets and irrigation components before regular use.
- Prepare lawn and garden tools.
April — Water & yard
- Watch drainage during spring rain and make sure water moves away from the foundation.
- Edge beds and refresh mulch without piling it against siding or tree trunks.
- Inspect decks, steps, railings and fences.
- Check screens before open-window season.
May — Outdoor living
- Inspect the grill and fuel connections according to manufacturer directions.
- Clean outdoor furniture and entertainment areas.
- Check exterior lighting and walking surfaces.
- Review child and pet safety around gates, pools and outdoor equipment.
June — Cooling & water use
- Confirm cooling equipment is operating normally before peak heat.
- Check irrigation for leaks and misdirected spray.
- Review lawn mowing height for the grass type and season.
- Inspect caulk and seals around exterior penetrations.
July — Midyear safety check
- Test smoke and CO alarms and review the family escape plan.
- Update the family emergency contact sheet.
- Inspect decks, stairs and handrails before gatherings.
- Look for pest or rodent entry points around the exterior.
August — Prepare for the seasonal turn
- Inspect exterior paint, siding and trim for repairs before wetter weather.
- Check gutters, roof drainage and downspout discharge.
- Review firewood storage and keep stacks stable, dry and separated from the house.
- Make a fall HVAC service plan if your system needs professional maintenance.
September — Fall preparation
- Clean and organize gutters as leaves begin to fall.
- Check door and window seals.
- Inspect heating equipment before cold weather.
- Store or protect seasonal outdoor furniture and tools as needed.
October — Cold-weather readiness
- Disconnect and protect outdoor hoses where freezing is possible.
- Know where the main water shutoff is.
- Inspect fireplace and chimney systems before regular use.
- Check exterior lighting as daylight hours shorten.
November — Holiday & winter safety
- Check extension cords and decorative lighting before use.
- Keep exits and heating equipment clear of decorations.
- Prepare for storms, outages and freezing temperatures.
- Clean kitchen exhaust areas before heavy holiday cooking.
December — Reset & plan
- Review the year's repairs and unresolved maintenance.
- Update home inventory photos and important records.
- Set next year's maintenance reserve and major-project priorities.
- Check alarms and emergency supplies before holiday travel.
Make it local
Roof & Lawn plans to make this checklist more useful by adding regional and ZIP-code-aware seasonal guidance over time. A homeowner in Arizona should not receive the same lawn or freeze advice at the same time as a homeowner in Maine.