Home maintenance & planning · Checklists and planning · Updated November 2026
First-Year Home Maintenance Checklist for New Homeowners
Your first year in a house is the time to learn how its systems work and catch small problems early. Use your home inspection report as a starting point, then work through this checklist.
First week
- Find and test the main water shut-off, gas shut-off and electrical panel; label breakers.
- Test smoke and carbon monoxide alarms; replace batteries.
- Change the locks or rekey them.
- Replace the HVAC filter and note the size (filter sizes and MERV).
- Note the age of the roof, water heater, furnace and AC from the inspection report or labels.
First few months
- Schedule HVAC service if there are no recent service records.
- Clean gutters and check that downspouts drain away from the house (why gutters overflow).
- Check caulk around tubs, showers and exterior trim.
- Look under sinks and around the water heater for leaks; add leak detectors (guide).
- Test the sump pump, if you have one.
- Follow up on items flagged in your inspection report (which contractor handles each finding).
Seasonal tasks
| Season | Tasks |
|---|---|
| Spring | AC tune-up; clean gutters; check the roof from the ground; inspect the foundation and grading |
| Summer | Check deck and fence condition; watch basement humidity (measuring humidity) |
| Fall | Furnace tune-up; clean gutters after leaves drop; shut off and drain outdoor faucets in cold climates; check weatherstripping |
| Winter | Watch for ice dams and attic condensation; keep vents clear of snow; test alarms |
Keep records
Keep a folder or spreadsheet with appliance manuals, warranties, paint colors, service dates and contractor contacts. It helps with warranty claims, future repairs and resale.