This guide provides a clear overview of the essential maintenance tasks every homeowner should understand. It covers routine checks, seasonal tasks, budgeting for repairs, and how to protect the long-term condition and value of your home.
Introduction
Good home maintenance prevents costly repairs, preserves your property value, and keeps your home safe and comfortable. This guide outlines the main tasks to stay on top of throughout the year and explains how to plan for both routine care and unexpected issues.
Why Home Maintenance Matters
- Reduces the risk of major repairs.
- Helps identify problems early, before they become expensive.
- Maintains property value and saleability.
- Improves energy efficiency and reduces running costs.
- Ensures your home remains safe and structurally sound.
Routine Monthly Tasks
- Test smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detectors, and replace batteries if needed.
- Check for leaks under sinks, around taps, and near appliances.
- Inspect boiler pressure and heating system performance.
- Clear debris from kitchen and bathroom extractor fans.
- Check external drains and grates for blockages.
Seasonal Maintenance Checklist
Spring
- Clean gutters and downpipes.
- Inspect roof tiles for winter damage.
- Test outdoor taps and hose connections.
- Check fences, gates, and outdoor structures.
- Service lawnmowers and garden equipment.
Summer
- Inspect and treat external woodwork.
- Pressure wash patios and decking.
- Check window seals and doors for drafts.
- Schedule a boiler service before winter.
- Trim trees and hedges away from the house.
Autumn
- Clear leaves from gutters and drains.
- Test heating system and radiators.
- Check loft insulation and pipes for winter.
- Seal any cracks around windows or doors.
- Inspect exterior paintwork.
Winter
- Keep paths and steps clear of ice.
- Monitor for condensation and damp.
- Check pipes for signs of freezing.
- Run extractor fans to reduce humidity.
- Open windows regularly for ventilation.
Annual Maintenance Tasks
- Book a boiler service.
- Have electrical wiring inspected if over 10 years old.
- Clean or replace ventilation filters.
- Inspect the loft for pests, leaks, or insulation issues.
- Check the condition of the driveway and external brickwork.
- Review home insurance to ensure correct coverage.
Exterior Home Checks
- Roof: broken or slipped tiles, moss, damaged flashing.
- Walls: cracks, damaged pointing, signs of damp.
- Windows: failed seals, rot in wooden frames, broken locks.
- Gutters: blockages, leaks, sagging sections.
- Garden: drainage issues, overgrown vegetation, pest activity.
Interior Home Checks
- Plumbing: slow drains, running toilets, dripping taps.
- Heating: noisy radiators, uneven heating, low boiler pressure.
- Security: locks, alarms, door sensors.
- Ventilation: mould, condensation, musty smells.
- Electrical: overloaded sockets, flickering lights.
Budgeting for Home Maintenance
It is recommended to set aside a maintenance budget each year. A common guideline is:
- 1% of the property value per year for general maintenance.
- More if the property is older or has known structural issues.
Budget categories:
- Routine maintenance.
- Emergency repairs.
- Long-term upgrades such as windows, roof work, or insulation.
When to Call a Professional
- Gas boiler and heating system repairs.
- Electrical issues or wiring changes.
- Structural concerns such as cracks or subsidence.
- Roofing repairs at height.
- Damp, mould, or persistent leaks.
Preventative Tips
- Keep gutters clear to prevent damp problems.
- Ventilate bathrooms and kitchens daily.
- Fix minor issues before they worsen.
- Keep a home maintenance log.
- Know the location of stopcocks, fuse boxes, and key valves.
Creating a Home Maintenance Schedule
A simple maintenance plan should include:
- Monthly recurring checks.
- Seasonal reminders.
- Annual servicing.
- A record of completed work and future tasks.
Staying organised prevents tasks from piling up and reduces long-term repair costs.
This guide is part of the wider homeownership section and complements pages including the Home Insurance and Protection Guide, Mortgage Overpayments Guide, and Moving Checklist for First-Time Buyers.
