Spring Home Maintenance Checklist

Next steps (at a glance)

If you only do 3 things:

  1. Check for water damage from winter (roof, gutters, basement).

  2. Test systems that sat idle (AC, sump pump, exterior drainage).

  3. Address small issues before spring storms and summer heat arrive.

Urgency level: Low → Medium
(Becomes High if you find active leaks, moisture intrusion, or system failures.)

Short answer

Spring is the best time to catch winter damage and prepare for heavy rain and heat. A few focused checks now prevent many of the most expensive summer repairs.

This checklist is about prevention—not perfection.

Why spring maintenance matters

Winter stresses homes in quiet ways:

  • Freeze–thaw cycles loosen materials

  • Snow and ice push water where it shouldn’t go

  • Systems sit idle for months

Spring reveals what held up—and what didn’t.

Spring maintenance checklist (prioritized)

Water & moisture (highest priority)

  • Check gutters and downspouts for clogs or separation

  • Confirm water drains away from the foundation

  • Look for basement dampness or new stains

  • Test the sump pump with water

Water problems compound fast once rain increases.

Roof & exterior

  • Look for missing or damaged shingles from the ground

  • Check flashing around vents and chimneys

  • Inspect siding for cracks or gaps

  • Look for peeling paint or exposed wood

Exterior damage often starts small but spreads quickly.

HVAC & cooling

  • Replace or clean HVAC filters

  • Turn on the AC before hot weather hits

  • Listen for unusual noises or weak airflow

  • Clear debris from outdoor condenser units

Early testing avoids first-heatwave breakdowns.

Plumbing

  • Look under sinks for leaks or moisture

  • Check outdoor hose bibs for drips

  • Watch for slow drains after heavy use

  • Listen for running toilets

Small leaks become expensive when ignored.

Electrical & safety

  • Test smoke and carbon monoxide alarms

  • Reset any tripped GFCI outlets

  • Check exterior outlets for weather damage

  • Ensure the electrical panel area is dry and clear

Spring moisture increases electrical risk.

Appliances

  • Clean dishwasher and washing machine filters

  • Inspect hoses for bulging or cracks

  • Check dryer vent airflow outside

  • Listen for new or louder noises

Appliance leaks often appear after winter inactivity.

What usually gets skipped (but matters)

  • Downspout extensions draining too close to the foundation

  • Dryer vent airflow outside

  • Small foundation cracks that grow with moisture

  • AC issues discovered only during the first heat wave

These are common “we’ll get to it later” problems.

DIY-safe checks you can do

All checklist items above are homeowner-safe.

Avoid:

  • Roof climbing without training

  • Electrical panel work

  • Gas line adjustments

  • Structural repairs

Observation and testing are enough to decide next steps.

If you don’t want to call a professional yet but want to stay safe

Prioritize these:

  • Anything involving water movement or moisture

  • Systems you rely on daily (AC, sump pump)

  • Safety devices that fail testing

Document issues and monitor changes over a few weeks.

Common mistakes

  • Waiting until summer storms expose problems

  • Ignoring minor moisture or staining

  • Assuming systems will “just work” after winter

  • Doing cosmetic fixes instead of addressing causes

Spring is about catching problems early.

When to call a professional

Call a licensed professional if:

  • Water enters the home after rain

  • The AC won’t start or runs poorly

  • Gutters overflow or pull away

  • Electrical or safety devices fail testing

What to ask:

  • Whether the issue is seasonal or structural

  • Repair urgency vs monitoring

  • Preventive options

What to expect:
Spring inspections are usually less urgent—and less expensive—than emergency calls later.

Related guides

Disclaimer:
This is general information only. When in doubt, hire a licensed professional.