Your First Year Home Maintenance Calendar

A New Metro Detroit Homeowner's Guide from HHI Home Inspections

Congratulations on Your New Home! Now What?

You've closed on your home. The inspection revealed what you're working with. Now comes the important part: maintaining your investment.

Your first year of homeownership sets the tone for how well your home serves you for decades to come. This home maintenance calendar helps you tackle the right tasks at the right time - nothing overwhelming, just smart maintenance that prevents expensive problems.

How to Use This Home Maintenance Calendar

Each month includes:

✓ Essential tasks you should do

⚠️ Things to monitor or check

💡 Pro tips from thousands of inspections

🛠️ Simple DIY vs. when to call a pro

Not sure how to do something? Call me at 248-388-4783. I'd rather answer a quick question than see preventable damage at your next inspection.

MONTH 1: Moving In & Getting Oriented

Essential Tasks

Learn Your Home's Systems

[ ] Locate main water shut-off valve (and tag it)

[ ] Find main electrical panel and test breakers

[ ] Identify gas shut-off valve if you have gas service

[ ] Locate and test sump pump (if applicable)

[ ] Find where HVAC air returns and supply vents are

Set Up Maintenance Baseline

[ ] Create a home maintenance binder (keep all manuals, warranties, inspection report)

[ ] Take photos of every room, mechanical system, and exterior for insurance records

[ ] Note ages of major systems (furnace, AC, water heater, roof) from your inspection report

[ ] Set up calendar reminders for seasonal maintenance tasks

Immediate Safety Checks

[ ] Test all smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors

[ ] Replace batteries in all detectors even if they seem to work

[ ] Verify you have detectors on every level and near all bedrooms

[ ] Check that fire extinguisher is present and not expired (kitchen minimum)

Change the Filters

[ ] Replace HVAC filter (then every 1-3 months depending on type)

[ ] Note filter size for future purchases

[ ] Buy 3-6 months worth of filters to have on hand

Things to Monitor

⚠️ How your heating/cooling performs in different weather

⚠️ Any unusual sounds from appliances or systems

⚠️ Water pressure throughout the house

⚠️ How quickly water drains in all sinks/tubs

Pro Tips

💡 Keep your inspection report accessible - you'll reference it for years

💡 Take "before" photos of any issues noted in inspection so you can track changes

💡 Introduce yourself to neighbors - they know the quirks of local weather, drainage, etc.

MONTH 2-3: Early Spring or Fall (Depending When You Moved)

Essential Tasks

HVAC Seasonal Transition

[ ] Schedule professional HVAC service (do this before peak season)

[ ] Clean around outdoor AC unit (remove leaves, debris, ensure 2-foot clearance)

[ ] Check that AC condensate drain line is clear

[ ] Replace furnace filter if not done last month

Exterior Inspection Walk

[ ] Walk around entire house looking for issues your inspector may have noted

[ ] Check foundation for any new cracks or changes

[ ] Look at roof from ground (use binoculars) - any missing shingles or damage?

[ ] Inspect siding for damage, holes, or areas needing caulk

Gutter Maintenance

[ ] Clean gutters and downspouts (spring and fall minimum)

[ ] Ensure downspouts direct water 4-6 feet from foundation

[ ] Check for loose or sagging gutter sections

[ ] Consider gutter guards if you have many trees

Test Your Sump Pump

[ ] Pour bucket of water in sump pit to test pump operation

[ ] Ensure discharge pipe directs water away from house

[ ] Check backup battery if you have one

Things to Monitor

⚠️ Any water in basement after heavy rain

⚠️ Ice dam formation on roof edges (winter)

⚠️ Drainage around foundation after storms

Pro Tips

💡 Take photos of your gutters/roof every season to track condition over time

💡 HVAC service in spring (for AC) or fall (for furnace) is cheaper than emergency calls

💡 Good drainage is the #1 defense against basement water - fix it before you need it

MONTH 4: Spring Maintenance

Essential Tasks

Windows & Doors

[ ] Clean window tracks and lubricate if needed

[ ] Check window screens for damage - repair or replace

[ ] Test that all windows open and close properly

[ ] Check weather stripping around doors, replace if worn

Outdoor Faucets & Irrigation

[ ] Turn on exterior faucets (if winterized) and check for leaks

[ ] Replace any leaking hose bibs before summer watering season

[ ] Turn on sprinkler system and check for broken heads or leaks

[ ] Verify outdoor faucets have backflow preventers

Deck/Porch Inspection

[ ] Check deck boards for rot, loose boards, or damage

[ ] Tighten loose railing sections

[ ] Look for any structural concerns (posts, beams, connections)

[ ] Note if deck needs cleaning/sealing this year

Lawn & Landscape

[ ] Trim all vegetation away from house (12-18 inches minimum)

[ ] Check that soil slopes away from foundation

[ ] Fill any low spots where water pools near house

[ ] Clean window wells and ensure they drain properly

Things to Monitor

⚠️ Any settling or movement in deck/porch structures

⚠️ Signs of carpenter ants or termites (spring swarming season)

⚠️ Moisture in crawl space or basement

Pro Tips

💡 Vegetation touching your house = moisture + pest highway

💡 A $20 can of roof/foundation sealant prevents $2,000+ water damage

💡 Window wells should have gravel for drainage - add if missing

MONTH 5-6: Late Spring/Early Summer

Essential Tasks

AC Season Preparation

[ ] Test AC on first warm day (don't wait until it's 90°F)

[ ] Listen for unusual sounds when AC runs

[ ] Ensure all vents throughout house are open and delivering cool air

[ ] Replace AC filter (and monthly during cooling season)

Attic Inspection

[ ] Check attic for any signs of roof leaks (water stains, wet insulation)

[ ] Verify attic ventilation is working (attic shouldn't be excessively hot)

[ ] Look for any signs of pests or nesting animals

[ ] Check that bathroom/kitchen exhaust fans vent outside, not into attic

Basement/Crawl Space Check

[ ] Look for any water intrusion or moisture after spring rains

[ ] Check for musty odors (sign of moisture issues)

[ ] Verify sump pump is keeping up with spring water table

[ ] Look for any new cracks in foundation

Exterior Caulking

[ ] Check caulking around windows and doors

[ ] Re-caulk anywhere gaps have formed (prevents water and pest entry)

[ ] Check where utilities enter house - seal gaps

[ ] Caulk around exterior outlets and fixtures

Things to Monitor

⚠️ How well AC keeps up on hottest days

⚠️ Any ice dam evidence from previous winter (attic staining)

⚠️ Basement humidity levels

Pro Tips

💡 Attics in summer can hit 140°F+ if poorly ventilated - that ages your roof fast

💡 Dehumidifier in basement keeps moisture under 50% = prevents mold

💡 $5 of caulk now prevents hundreds in water damage later

MONTH 7-8: Mid-Summer

Essential Tasks

Water Heater Maintenance

[ ] Drain 1-2 gallons from water heater to remove sediment (extends life)

[ ] Check temperature setting (120°F is ideal - safe and efficient)

[ ] Look for any signs of leaks or corrosion

[ ] Note age of water heater (typical life: 8-12 years)

Dryer Vent Cleaning

[ ] Clean lint from dryer vent line (fire hazard if neglected)

[ ] Ensure exterior vent flap opens when dryer runs

[ ] Check that vent isn't crushed or kinked

[ ] Clean lint trap before every load (obvious but important)

Garage Door Maintenance

[ ] Test garage door auto-reverse safety feature

[ ] Lubricate door tracks, hinges, and rollers

[ ] Check that door opens/closes smoothly without binding

[ ] Replace worn weather stripping at bottom of door

Pest Prevention

[ ] Seal any gaps or holes where insects/rodents could enter

[ ] Check door sweeps and replace if worn

[ ] Look for wasp/bee nests around eaves and remove

[ ] Store firewood away from house (20+ feet)

Things to Monitor

⚠️ Any signs of pests inside the home

⚠️ Water heater performance (running out of hot water = sign of issues)

⚠️ Garage door operation - jerky movement means service needed

Pro Tips

💡 Water heaters fail catastrophically - know the age and plan replacement before it leaks

💡 Dryer vent fires are common and preventable - clean annually minimum

💡 Garage door springs under tension are dangerous - call a pro for repairs

MONTH 9: Fall Preparation

Essential Tasks

Furnace Season Prep

[ ] Schedule professional furnace service before heating season

[ ] Replace furnace filter

[ ] Test furnace on cool morning - ensure it heats properly

[ ] Clean around furnace area (combustion air needs clear space)

Chimney & Fireplace

[ ] Have chimney inspected and cleaned if you use fireplace

[ ] Test that fireplace damper opens and closes

[ ] Check chimney cap condition from ground

[ ] Stock up on firewood if you use wood-burning fireplace

Gutter & Roof Prep

[ ] Clean gutters before leaves fall (then again after leaves fall)

[ ] Inspect roof from ground for any damage

[ ] Trim tree branches hanging over roof

[ ] Check that all roof vents and flashing look intact

Exterior Winterization

[ ] Drain and store garden hoses

[ ] Shut off exterior faucets from inside (if you have shut-off valves)

[ ] Blow out sprinkler system or have it professionally winterized

[ ] Remove window AC units or install covers

Things to Monitor

⚠️ Any drafts around windows/doors when weather cools

⚠️ How well furnace heats on first cold days

⚠️ Signs of rodents looking for winter shelter

Pro Tips

💡 Furnace failures happen on the coldest nights - service before you need it

💡 Frozen exterior pipes burst - winterize before first freeze

💡 Chimney fires are real and deadly - get inspections if you use fireplace

MONTH 10: Mid-Fall

Essential Tasks

Weatherization

[ ] Check weather stripping around all doors - replace if worn

[ ] Install or repair storm windows

[ ] Caulk any gaps around windows from outside

[ ] Check attic insulation adequacy (should not see joists)

Battery Replacement Day

[ ] Replace batteries in all smoke/CO detectors (do this annually)

[ ] Test each detector after battery replacement

[ ] Replace any detectors over 10 years old

[ ] Update garage door opener battery backup if applicable

Exterior Final Checks

[ ] Store or cover outdoor furniture

[ ] Drain outdoor fountains or decorative water features

[ ] Disconnect and store window AC units

[ ] Check that all downspouts are attached and directing water away

Basement/Foundation

[ ] Verify foundation vents are closed (if you have crawl space)

[ ] Check for gaps where utilities enter house - seal for winter

[ ] Ensure basement windows close and lock properly

[ ] Test basement heating (if separately controlled)

Things to Monitor

⚠️ Cold drafts that indicate air leaks

⚠️ Rooms that are significantly colder than others

⚠️ Ice dam formation starting on roof edges

Pro Tips

💡 Smoke detector batteries on daylight saving time change = easy to remember

💡 Drafty windows waste more energy than you think - seal them

💡 Mice can fit through gaps the size of a dime - seal everything

MONTH 11-12: Winter Monitoring

Essential Tasks

Snow & Ice Management

[ ] Keep snow cleared from foundation perimeter

[ ] Remove snow from around HVAC outdoor unit

[ ] Clear snow from gas meter and appliance vents

[ ] Knock down icicles before they damage gutters

Ice Dam Prevention

[ ] Check attic for frost or ice buildup (sign of heat loss)

[ ] Keep gutters clear of ice

[ ] Use roof rake to remove snow from eaves if needed

[ ] Monitor for water stains on ceilings after snow/thaw cycles

Interior Winter Checks

[ ] Check that all windows/doors close and lock properly

[ ] Test that all rooms heat adequately

[ ] Monitor for condensation on windows (sign of humidity issues)

[ ] Replace furnace filter monthly during heating season

Pipe Freeze Prevention

[ ] Let faucets drip during extreme cold if pipes are vulnerable

[ ] Keep cabinet doors open under sinks on exterior walls

[ ] Maintain heat at 55°F minimum if traveling

[ ] Know where your main water shut-off is in case pipes freeze

Things to Monitor

⚠️ Ice dam formation on roof

⚠️ Icicles growing from gutters (means heat loss)

⚠️ Basement/crawl space temperature staying above freezing

⚠️ Any rooms or areas not heating properly

Pro Tips

💡 Ice dams form when attic heat melts roof snow - insulation and ventilation prevent this

💡 Frozen pipes burst when they thaw, not when they freeze - shut water off if you suspect freezing

💡 A $50 space heater in a cold area beats thousands in pipe repairs

Year-Round Ongoing Tasks

Monthly (or More Often)

HVAC Filter Replacement

[ ] Replace every 1-3 months depending on filter type

[ ] More often if you have pets or allergies

[ ] Mark your calendar - this is the #1 thing homeowners neglect

Visual Home Walk-Through

[ ] Walk around exterior monthly looking for changes

[ ] Quick interior check for leaks, odd sounds, or issues

[ ] Takes 15 minutes, prevents major problems

Check Under Sinks

[ ] Look for leaks or water damage

[ ] Especially after running dishwasher or garbage disposal

[ ] Catch small leaks before they become big problems

Quarterly

Test Safety Systems

• Test smoke and CO detectors

• Test garage door auto-reverse

• Test GFCI outlets (push test button)

• Verify fire extinguisher pressure

Inspect Roof From Ground

• Use binoculars to check for damage

• Look after major storms

• Early detection prevents interior damage

Semi-Annually (Spring & Fall)

Deep HVAC Maintenance

• Professional service in spring (AC) and fall (furnace)

• Clean around outdoor units

• Check ductwork visible in basement/attic

Gutter Cleaning

• Spring before heavy rains

• Fall after leaves drop

• Critical for preventing water damage

Exterior Inspection

• Detailed walk around house

• Check siding, windows, doors, foundation

• Note anything needing repair

Annually

Water Heater Maintenance

• Drain sediment

• Check anode rod if accessible

• Look for corrosion or leaks

Chimney Inspection/Cleaning (if used)

• Essential for safe fireplace operation

• Prevents chimney fires

Dryer Vent Cleaning

• Prevents fires

• Improves efficiency

Battery Replacement

• All smoke/CO detectors

• Garage door backup

When to Call a Professional

DIY-Friendly Tasks:

✓ Changing filters

✓ Cleaning gutters

✓ Testing detectors

✓ Basic caulking

✓ Replacing batteries

✓ Minor landscaping

Call a Pro For:

🔧 HVAC service - system complexity requires expertise

🔧 Electrical issues - safety risk, requires licensed electrician

🔧 Gas appliance service - safety critical, needs certification

🔧 Roof repairs - fall risk, warranty concerns

🔧 Major plumbing - specialized tools and knowledge

🔧 Structural concerns - need engineer or contractor assessment

🔧 Chimney service - fire safety requires professional

When in doubt, call. A $150 service call beats a $5,000 mistake.

Creating Your Personal Maintenance Budget

First Year Expectations

Routine Maintenance (Budget $1,000-2,000):

• HVAC service (2x/year): $300-400

• Filters and supplies: $200-300

• Gutter cleaning (2x): $200-400

• Minor repairs and caulking: $200-300

• Chimney service (if applicable): $200-300

Your Inspection Report Items (Budget Based on Report):

• Items marked "1-2 year priority": Budget accordingly

• Systems nearing end of life: Start saving monthly

• Deferred maintenance: Tackle in year one if possible

Emergency Fund:

• Keep $2,000-5,000 for unexpected issues

• Water heaters fail suddenly ($1,200-2,000)

• Furnaces die in January ($3,000-6,000)

• Sump pumps fail in spring ($500-1,500)

Building Your Long-Term Plan

Use your inspection report to create 5 and 10-year budgets:

Years 1-5: Address inspection concerns, establish maintenance routineYears 5-10: Plan for first major replacements (water heater, HVAC)Years 10+: Roof, windows, major systems may need replacement

Your First Year Success Checklist

By the end of year one, you should have:

• [ ] Completed all seasonal maintenance tasks

• [ ] Established routine (filters, gutters, visual checks)

• [ ] Addressed high-priority items from inspection report

• [ ] Created long-term maintenance and replacement plan

• [ ] Built emergency fund for unexpected repairs

• [ ] Kept records of all service and maintenance

• [ ] Learned your home's quirks and normal operation

• [ ] Prevented major issues through proactive care

Remember: Homes reward consistent attention. A little maintenance every month prevents expensive emergencies and protects your investment for decades.

Additional Resources

• What's Actually a Big Deal vs. Normal Wear - Understanding home issues

• Understanding Your Inspection Report - Reference your report effectively

• When Inspection Reports Aren't Deal-Breakers - Context for common issues

• Pre-Inspection Prep Checklist - For when you sell this home

This calendar provides general guidance for Metro Detroit homes. Your specific home may have unique needs based on age, systems, and your inspection findings. When in doubt, consult professionals. Preventive maintenance is always cheaper than emergency repairs.

Welcome to homeownership. You've got this.

📞 Call HHI Services: 248-388-4783 

📧 Email: erikhodge@hhiservice.com

🌐 www.hhiservice.com

Schedule Your Buyer's or Seller's Inspection Today.

Knowledge is power, and early detection saves thousands.

Serving Southeast Michigan: Oakland County • Macomb County • Wayne County • Lapeer County • Genesee County

Erik Hodge, Certified Inspector Thorough, Fair, and Transaction-Friendly Home Inspections