The First-Time Homeowner’s Guide to Property Maintenance

Buying a house is exciting until you realize there’s no landlord to call when something starts leaking, creaking, or breaking. Welcome to the thrilling and terrifying world of property maintenance, where you are the sole owner and landlord of the place.

Even if this is your first time owning a house, there’s no need to panic. You don’t have to become a home improvement and repair expert overnight. All you need is a solid checklist, a little consistency, and maybe a guide on what to keep an eye out for.

Let’s walk through the key maintenance tasks every first-time homeowner should know.

Roofing Repair

Your roof is the first line of defense between your cozy living room and the weather outside. If it starts to fail, you’re looking at water damage, mold, insulation issues, and a lot of regret.

Make roofing repair a priority if you notice:

• Missing or curling shingles
• Leaks or water stains in the attic or ceilings
• Sagging areas
• Debris buildup

Even if nothing seems to be wrong, annual inspections are a smart move. Catching issues early can save you thousands.

HVAC Maintenance

If you prefer comfortable breathing and temperature, your heating and cooling systems need your care.

Make sure to:

• Change filters every few months
• Get a professional service at least once a year
• Clean vents regularly
• Watch for weird smells or noises

A well-maintained HVAC system can lead to better air, lower bills, and fewer issues when the weather changes.

Gutter Cleaning

Letting your gutters clog with leaves and gunk can lead to way worse problems than getting a gutter cleaning beforehand. It can lead to:

• Foundation cracks
• Water damage
• Pest infestations

Aim to clean your gutters at least twice a year, especially during spring and fall. Do it more often if you have a lot of nearby trees or notice water spilling over the edge.

While it’s possible to do it yourself with some gloves, a ladder, and a YouTube tutorial, it’s best to leave the cleaning to the professionals and save yourself the trouble.

Plumbing Basics

A small leak today can turn into a big problem tomorrow. As a new homeowner, get familiar with:

• Where your main water shutoff valve is
• Signs of hidden leaks, including mold and smells
• Cleaning out drains and traps before they clog
• Keeping an eye on water pressure

A cheap plunger and a basic toolbox can save you a lot of stress, time, and money on basic plumbing issues before you have to call in a professional.

Yard and Exterior Maintenance

Even if you’re not going for a full renovation, basic yard and exterior maintenance is part of protecting your property.

You can consider:

• Mowing and trimming the grass
• Power washing siding and walkways
• Sealing cracks in driveways and patios
• Checking your foundation for issues like cracks or pooling water

Make sure the area is well-lit and visible in the dark.

Safety Systems

Your and your home’s safety is a must. Make sure to install and regularly test:

• Smoke detectors
• Carbon monoxide detectors
• Fire extinguishers
• Security lights or cameras

These systems not only protect you, but also keep insurance companies happy.