Just Because You Buy a New Home Doesn’t Mean You’re 100% Free of Home Maintenance

Just Because You Buy a New Home Doesn’t Mean You’re 100% Free of Home Maintenance

One of the pleasures of buying a newly built home is the freedom from joyless tasks like scraping old paint from your windowsills. But just because renovations and repairs are not required, that doesn’t mean you’re entirely off the hook for ensuring your new home stays in good condition. To keep your home looking fresh and operating at its optimal level of efficiency and safety, experts suggest keeping up with a handful of maintenance tasks.

Getting Organized

During your final walkthrough, your builder may provide a binder or digital files with appliance manuals and warranties. If not, moving in is the perfect time to compile this information. Apps like HomeZada or BrightNest can help track maintenance schedules and warranties. Consider a maintenance contract for your HVAC system to schedule biannual inspections and access discounted services.

Key Tips:

• Review warranties and appliance lifespans to plan for future replacements.
• Familiarize yourself with home systems (electrical, plumbing, HVAC).
• Schedule annual HVAC inspections, even if covered under warranty.

Exterior Maintenance Tasks

Conduct an annual inspection of your home’s exterior to catch issues early. Focus on these critical areas:

Gutter and Downspout Cleaning

Clean gutters and downspouts each fall to prevent clogs. Blockages can lead to ice dams in winter, causing interior water damage. Ensure downspouts direct water at least 5 feet away from your foundation.

Landscaping and Drainage

Maintain proper grading around your home to slope water away from the foundation. This prevents basement flooding and structural damage.

Dryer Vent Maintenance

Clean your exterior dryer vent annually to reduce fire hazards and improve dryer efficiency.

Interior Maintenance Tasks

Indoor maintenance focuses on preventing moisture damage, ensuring air quality, and prioritizing safety.

Sump Pump Checks

Test your sump pump yearly to ensure it’s functional during heavy rains or floods.

HVAC Filters

Replace HVAC filters monthly—mark your calendar or check when paying utility bills. Clean filters lower energy costs and improve air quality.

Water Heater Care

Drain one gallon of water from your water heater annually to remove sediment buildup, which can reduce capacity and efficiency.

Safety Devices

• Test smoke, carbon monoxide, and radon detectors twice yearly.
• Inspect GFCI outlets monthly to ensure they trip correctly.

Appliance Upkeep

• Vacuum refrigerator coils every 6 months for optimal performance.
• Inspect washing machine hoses for leaks or wear.

Final Tip for New Homeowners

Schedule a professional home inspection before your one-year warranty expires. This can uncover hidden issues your builder may address at no cost.