Identify the main water shut‑off and every gas/propane shut‑off valve in your home so you can quickly turn off utilities in an emergency. Make sure all adult family members know where they are and how to operate them.

If your home uses propane or heating oil, sign up for an automatic fill program through your fuel provider to avoid running out during winter.

Keep a multi‑purpose (Class ABC) fire extinguisher on each floor. Verify expiration dates annually.

Use felt pads or furniture cups under chairs, tables and heavy items to prevent scratches on hardwood floors.

Replace disposable furnace/AC filters every 1–3 months depending on usage; a clogged filter reduces efficiency and can damage equipment.

Appliance experts recommend removing and scrubbing the dishwasher filter once a month to clear food debris and detergent buildup.

Press test buttons monthly; replace batteries at least annually (see annual tasks).

Run water through guest bathrooms/toilets and basement sinks to keep traps filled and prevent sewer gases.

During cooling season, make sure the condensate drain isn’t clogged; a clogged drain can cause water damage.

Wipe dust from window/door tracks and clean seals to ensure smooth operation.

Indoors, inspect basements, attics and unused chimneys for signs of pests such as rodent droppings, insect damage or wasp nests. Outdoors, remove standing water, trim vegetation and store firewood away from the house to discourage pests.

Have a licensed technician service your heating/cooling system before switching seasons. Servicing in spring ensures the air‑conditioner operates efficiently on the first hot day; fall service prepares the furnace for winter. The technician will clean coils, check refrigerant, test thermostat function and inspect the condensate drain.

If your HVAC system includes a whole‑home humidifier, replace the pad each season and turn off the humidifier in summer. Maintain indoor humidity between 30–50 percent.

After a thorough cleaning, lubricate hinges, tracks and locks twice a year—especially before and after winter—to prevent rust and ensure smooth operation. Use a silicone‑based lubricant and avoid oil‑based products which attract dust.

Inspect weather‑stripping around windows and doors for cracks or gaps. Replace worn sections to improve energy efficiency and block drafts. Test by closing a piece of paper in the door—if it pulls out easily, the seal may be bad.

Inspect exterior caulking around frames and seams. Remove deteriorated caulk and reapply a high‑quality exterior sealant to prevent water intrusion.

To ensure your basement stays dry, pour water into the sump pit until the pump engages, then check that it discharges water properly away from the foundation. Clean the pump inlet screen and pit and test the backup battery if you have one. The pump should be serviced annually and replaced about every 10 years.

If your home has a sewage ejector pump for a basement bathroom, schedule at least one professional inspection every year. A pro will remove debris, test the float switch and check the check‑valve to ensure reliable operation. Typical lifespan is 7–10 years.

Replace the sediment pre‑filter every 3–9 months and the post‑filter every 6–12 months; filtration tanks last 5–10 years. UV lamps and water‑softener media are typically replaced annually and every six years, respectively.

Industry best practice is to have your roof professionally inspected twice per year—once in spring and once in fall. Inspections after severe storms, hail, heavy winds or major snowfall catch hidden damage before leaks develop.

Remove leaves and debris at least twice a year, typically at the end of fall and beginning of spring, to ensure water flows freely. Clean more often if your home is surrounded by trees or heavy storms. Properly functioning gutters protect the foundation and deter pests.

Examine siding, stucco or brick for cracks, deterioration or mortar issues; repair promptly to prevent moisture intrusion. Touch up paint or stain as needed to protect surfaces.

Inspect for leaks, broken sprinkler heads or frozen pipes after winter; test the system before summer to detect issues. Blow out the lines and winterize before the first freeze.

In fall, rake out dead grass and debris, aerate the soil to improve water and nutrient absorption, apply soil amendments and reseed to repair bare spots. Fertilize monthly in fall and adjust mowing height to about 2 inches. Water deeply once or twice per week during dry periods (preferably early morning). Aerate when soil is moist using a plug‑type aerator.

Mature trees generally require pruning every 3–5 years and young trees every 2–3 years. Hire a certified arborist to remove dead branches and maintain healthy structure.

Ensure soil slopes away from the foundation (a 6‑inch drop over 10 feet is recommended) and that downspouts discharge water at least 5–10 feet from the house. Repair settled areas and adjust landscaping to prevent pooling water.

After winter, test outdoor faucets and hose bibs for leaks or cracks caused by freezing. Install frost‑free hose bibs or insulate valves for winter.

In spring and fall, look for cracks in foundation walls or floors and note changes in size. Seal small cracks with epoxy or polyurethane injection and consult a professional for larger issues. Check for water stains or mold; address plumbing leaks or water intrusion promptly.

Press the "test" and "reset" buttons on GFCI outlets to verify proper function.

Have a certified technician inspect and clean your gas fireplace once a year. Annual servicing checks the venting, gas connections, pilot light and glass, ensuring safe, efficient operation.

If you use a wood‑burning fireplace or stove, hire a chimney sweep annually to remove creosote and inspect for cracks. Always open the flue before lighting a fire and use a fireplace screen to contain sparks.

Change batteries at least once a year and replace the entire unit every 7–10 years or per manufacturer instructions.

Perform visual inspections and test‑run standby generators monthly, check oil and fuel lines quarterly, and schedule a professional service each year.

Test well water at least once a year for total coliform bacteria, nitrates, total dissolved solids and pH. Contact your local health department to determine additional contaminants and use a state‑certified lab for testing.

Vacuum weekly; schedule professional carpet cleaning every 12–18 months to remove embedded dirt. High‑traffic homes, pets or allergies may require deep cleaning every 6–12 months.

Seal tile grout on floors, showers and backsplashes every six months to one year; low‑moisture areas can wait 2–3 years.

Unplug the refrigerator, remove the grille and vacuum the condenser coils once or twice a year; more frequently (every three to four months) if you have pets, heavy usage, or manufacturer recommendations.

Drain a bucket of water from the bottom of the tank or perform a full flush to remove sediment once per year; flushing reduces efficiency losses and prolongs heater life. Follow manufacturer instructions: turn off power/gas, attach a hose to the drain valve, drain and flush until clear, then refill and restore power.

Inspect washing‑machine hoses regularly and replace them every 3–5 years; cleaning the hoses and turning off the water supply when the machine isn’t in use prevent leaks.

The National Fire Protection Association recommends cleaning dryer vents at least once a year to prevent lint‑related fires. Large families or frequent laundry may require cleaning every six months.

Run the self‑cleaning cycle on your oven every 4–6 months, depending on how often you cook and how well you manually wipe spills. Remove racks before cleaning and ventilate the kitchen.

Stain or seal wooden fences, decks and railings when water no longer beads on the surface—usually every 2–3 years. Secure loose boards or nails. For cedar fencing, staining protects against weathering.

Reseal asphalt driveways every other year to protect against water penetration. Repair cracks promptly.

Check exterior outlets, lighting fixtures and low‑voltage landscape wiring for wear or damage; replace burnt‑out bulbs.

Add salt and clean the brine tank annually; follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

Inspect the attic twice a year for signs of moisture, mold or pests and ensure insulation coverage is even and meets recommended R‑values. Ensure soffit and ridge vents are unobstructed and that exhaust fans vent to the exterior. Seal air leaks around chimneys, plumbing vents and electrical penetrations.

Continue monitoring for pests and seal any cracks or gaps around the home. Maintain a clean yard.

Young trees benefit from structural pruning every 2–3 years to encourage a strong form.

If you run frequent loads, schedule a professional dryer‑vent cleaning and duct inspection every 2–3 years.

Sealing countertops or stone tiles protects against staining; reapply every 1–3 years depending on product instructions.

Battery‑powered backups should be tested and replaced every 2–3 years to ensure operation during power outages.

A licensed pest control expert can identify termite activity, carpenter ants or rodent issues that may not be obvious.

The EPA recommends inspecting a septic system every three years and pumping the tank every 3–5 years. Alternative systems with pumps or electrical components require annual inspection. Service providers check for leaks, measure sludge and scum layers and pump when necessary.

Mature trees require professional pruning every 3–5 years to remove dead limbs and prevent storm damage.

Screening and recoating or full refinishing every 3–5 years refreshes the finish and protects the wood.

Replace braided hoses every 3–5 years to prevent bursts.

Typical sump pumps last about 10 years; evaluate replacement at 8–10 years or sooner if the pump runs frequently.

Overseed and aerate at least every 3 years to keep grass thick and healthy.

Leaking faucets, running toilets or dripping pipes waste water and can lead to water damage or septic overload. Repair promptly.

Frequent storms and temperature swings in Virginia may cause seals to crack sooner than scheduled.

If you notice sticking doors/windows, uneven floors or widening cracks, consider consulting a foundation specialist.

Before major storms or hurricanes (rare but possible storm remnants), secure outdoor furniture, close storm shutters if installed, and ensure sump pumps and generators are ready.

Remove snow from eaves and around foundation; use roof rakes to prevent ice dams; clear around heat‑pump/AC units.

If you see evidence of termites, carpenter bees, bed bugs or rodents, contact a pest professional. Use traps and maintain good sanitation.

Efficient water use reduces septic load. Repair leaky toilets (a single leak can waste 200 gallons/day) and install high‑efficiency fixtures.

Do not flush wipes, grease, chemicals or medications—these can clog plumbing and disrupt septic systems. Direct roof drains and sump‑pump discharge away from septic drainfields to avoid flooding.

Keep contaminants away from the wellhead; avoid storing fuel, pesticide or chemicals nearby. Inspect the well casing periodically for damage and ensure the cap is secure. Test the water annually.