Spring is a good time to find winter damage before rain, heat, and increased outdoor use make it worse. A useful checklist starts with roof and drainage observations from safe locations, continues through water and heating/cooling systems, and finishes with doors, windows, and outdoor equipment. Not every repair must happen in one day; identify and prioritize risk first.
Inspect roof, gutters, and drainage from the ground
Look for displaced roofing, loose gutters, overflow marks, and downspouts discharging at the foundation. Use binoculars if helpful and hire height work when access is not safe; do not climb a wet roof for a visual inspection.
Look for leaks and moisture after winter
Check the basement, accessible attic, window frames, and areas under sinks. New stains, swollen material, or musty odor deserve source-finding and drying before paint or finishes cover them.
Prepare cooling before the first hot spell
Inspect the filter, clear grilles, and test air conditioning ahead of hot weather. If it does not cool, leaks water, hums without starting, or trips the circuit, arrange service before a heat wave.
Check doors, screens, and outdoor equipment
Repair screens, test weatherstripping, and inspect hoses, outdoor faucets, and tools before use. Clear debris around outdoor equipment without opening panels. Prioritize damaged cords, leaks, or loose fasteners before cosmetic tasks.
Sources
- U.S. Department of Energy — Energy Saver — Home maintenance and seasonal preparation for heating, cooling, and the building envelope.