Your Preventive Maintenance Check List

Complete checklist for all your preventive maintenance needs.

SPRING (INTERIOR)

INTERIOR

BASEMENT/FOUNDATION

 Check attic, ceilings and walls for evidence of leaks.  Check for cracks or breaks in wall.
 Check ventilation openings for nests, or other blockage.  Check for evidence of water infiltration or dampness.
 Check condition of all painted or finished walls and trim.  Check for decaying sills and window frames.
 Check carpet and flooring for wear or damage.  Check for signs of termite, ant or other insect activity
 Check condition of all stairs and railings.  Check for changes in framing conditions.
 Check condition and operation of all windows and doors.  Check crawlspace ventilation, insulation, and vapor retarders.
 Test smoke/fire alarms and carbon monoxide detectors.  Test, clean and lubricate sump pump.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

HEATING/COOLING SYSTEMS

 Assess power distribution for overloads issues.  Follow manufacturer instructions for HVAC systems.
 Test circuit breakers and label all circuits at panel.  Inspect and install room air conditioners.
 Test arc-fault and ground-fault circuit-interrupters (regularly).  Clean all serviceable elements of heating system.
 Check circuits for over-fusing.  Change or clean heating system filter (regularly).
 Check all receptacles and switches.  Check venting systems for corrosion and leaks.
Check operation of vent and/or attic fans.  Clean and de-energize humidifier.
 Check and lubricate attic fan.

PLUMBING

KITCHEN/BATHROOMS

 Check well and components.  Check condition and operation of all appliances.
 Check septic tanks and systems.  Clean and change range fan filters.
 Check water and waste piping for leaks.  Check all toilet flush mechanisms.
 Check hot water supply temperature.  Check and repair all leaking faucets and valves.
 Follow manufacturer instructions for water heater.  Caulk and grout tile at tubs and showers.
 Clean aerators and showerheads.

Spring (Exterior)

Grounds

Foundation

 Check condition of driveways and walks.  Check (during rainstorm) for drainage away from foundation.
 Check window wells, dry wells and storm drains for blockage.  Check for settlement, cracks and spalling.
 Check fencing conditions and gate operation.

SIDING AND CHIMNEYS

 Check retaining walls for cracks, bulges and leaning.  Check all surfaces for damage or deterioration.
 Check all landscaping; trim all bushes and trees.  Check caulking at all joints.
 Check all out-buildings, porches and patios.  Treat or paint worn or exposed wood components.
 Check for proper grading and drainage throughout property.  Check condition of masonry chimneys and vents.
 Check lawn sprinkler system operation.
 Check all equipment in preparation of pool opening.

ROOFS

PORCH AND PATIO

 Check for loose, damaged or missing roofing.  Check all wooden supports and railing components.
 Check fascia and soffit for signs of leaks/moisture build-up.  Check flooring for wear or damage.
 Check all flashings for fit and seals.  Apply preservative to wood decking and components.
 Check television antenna or satellite dish mounting.  Seal patios at foundation.
 Check and clean all gutters (eavestroughs) and downspouts.
 Clean fungi or algae from roof surfaces.

ELECTRICAL AND PLUMBING

INSECT INFESTATION

 Check condition of incoming service wire and supports.  Check for signs of termite, ant or other insect activity.
 Add or test ground-fault circuit-interrupters (GFCI).  Check for insect damage.
 De-winterize and check exterior faucets.  Arrange for treatment or repair.

FALL (INTERIOR)

HEATING/COOLING SYSTEMS

ATTIC

 Follow manufacturer instructions for HVAC systems.  Check ventilation openings for nests, or other blockage.
 Remove (or winterize) room air conditioners.  Check position and condition of insulation.
 Clean all elements of cooling system.
 Test and start humidifier.
 Change or clean heating system filter (regularly).
 Check condition of water heater.
 Check for HVAC or plumbing leaks.

FALL (EXTERIOR)

GROUNDS

EXTERIOR SURFACES

 Check window wells, dry wells and storm drains.  Check weather-tightness of all surfaces.
 Seal driveway cracks.  Check for finish or paint deterioration.
 Trim all trees.  Caulk and seal all joints.

FOUNDATION

PLUMBING

 Check (during rainstorm) for proper drainage from foundation.  Drain exterior water lines and open taps (in cold areas).
 Check and seal any cracks.  Insulate water lines that are subject to freezing.

ROOF

 Check for loose, damaged or missing roofing.
 Check soffit for signs of moisture build-up.
 Check condition of chimney.
 Check flashings for fit or poor seal.
 Check and clean all gutters (eavestroughs) and downspouts.

This information is provided for general guidance purposes only. Neither HMA Franchise Systems, Inc. nor the local HouseMaster® franchise warrants its accuracy and assumes no liability related to its use. Contact the local franchise office and/or qualified specialists for advice pertinent to your specific house or circumstances. © Copyright DBR 2009. Each HouseMaster franchise is an independently owned and operated business. HouseMaster is a registered trademark of DBR Franchising, LLC.

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HouseMaster® is a registered trademark of DBR Franchising, LLC. Each HouseMaster® Franchise is an Independently Owned and Operated Business. Not all services are available at every location. Site contents © 2012 DBR Franchising, LLC.