Home ownership brings tremendous pride and satisfaction, but also responsibility for ongoing maintenance and repairs. Whether you're addressing urgent issues, performing preventive maintenance, or planning improvements, systematic approach to house repair protects your investment and ensures comfortable, safe living environment. Research shows homes with regular maintenance and timely repairs maintain 15-25% higher property values and experience 40-50% fewer major repair emergencies. This house repair guide provides framework for identifying issues, prioritizing repairs, and maintaining your home effectively.
House repair encompasses everything from minor cosmetic fixes to major structural interventions. Understanding your home's systems, recognizing warning signs, and knowing when to call professionals distinguishes successful homeownership from costly property management disasters. This comprehensive 130-item checklist covers all major home systems and components, providing guidance for both DIY enthusiasts and homeowners planning professional services.
Foundation assessment represents one of most critical aspects of house repair, as foundation problems affect entire structure and cause widespread damage if left unaddressed.
Start by inspecting foundation visually from both inside and outside. Look for visible cracks in foundation walls or concrete slabs. Not all cracks indicate serious problems - hairline vertical cracks often result from normal settling, while horizontal cracks or cracks wider than 1/8 inch warrant professional evaluation. Check for water damage or moisture around foundation perimeter, as water intrusion causes significant structural damage over time.
Examine interior floors for signs of settling or unevenness. Floors that slope or feel uneven may indicate foundation movement. Check for gaps between walls and floors or ceilings, which suggest shifting foundation. Document any concerns with photos and measurements for professional assessment. Research shows foundation issues detected early cost 40-60% less to repair than problems left unaddressed.
Inspect crawl space or basement for structural issues. Look for cracks in foundation walls, bowing walls, or signs of water intrusion. Check for mold or mildew growth, which indicates moisture problems. Ensure proper ventilation in crawl spaces to prevent moisture accumulation. Foundation vents should be clear of debris and allow adequate airflow.
Check soil drainage away from foundation. Soil should slope away from house at minimum 6 inches over 10 feet to direct water away from foundation. Proper drainage prevents water from accumulating near foundation, which causes hydrostatic pressure and water intrusion. Research shows proper foundation drainage reduces foundation problems by 60-70%.
Roof inspection protects your home from water damage, maintains energy efficiency, and extends roof lifespan through timely repairs and maintenance.
Examine roof surface for missing, cracked, curling, or damaged shingles. Even small areas of damaged shingles can allow water intrusion leading to significant damage. Check around chimneys, vents, and other roof penetrations where flashing prevents water entry. Damaged or missing flashing represents common source of roof leaks and requires immediate attention.
Inspect attic for signs of roof leaks. Look for water stains on rafters, sheathing, or insulation. Active leaks appear as dark, wet areas, while older leaks show as staining or discoloration. Check for daylight visible through roof boards or sheathing, which indicates holes or gaps requiring repair. Research shows roof leaks detected early cost 70-80% less to repair than leaks left unaddressed.
Clean and inspect gutters. Clogged gutters cause water to overflow and damage roof, fascia, and foundation. Ensure gutters are securely attached to fascia and properly slope toward downspouts. Check downspouts for clogs and ensure they direct water at least 10 feet away from foundation. Clean gutters at least twice annually and after major storms.
Look for signs of algae, moss, or lichen growth on roof surface. While not always damaging, these growths indicate moisture retention and can accelerate shingle deterioration. Moss growth is particularly problematic as it lifts shingles allowing water underneath. Professional cleaning may be necessary for extensive growth.
Document roof age and condition for maintenance planning. Most asphalt shingle roofs last 20-25 years. Knowing your roof's age helps anticipate replacement needs and budget accordingly. Research shows roofs maintained with timely repairs last 30-40% longer than neglected roofs.
Exterior walls and siding protect your home from weather, maintain energy efficiency, and contribute to curb appeal and property value.
Inspect siding thoroughly for cracks, holes, warping, or loose sections. Different siding materials have specific vulnerabilities - wood siding prone to rot and insect damage, vinyl susceptible to cracking in extreme temperatures, fiber cement can develop cracks over time. Address damaged sections promptly to prevent water intrusion and further damage.
Check for signs of insect damage or pest activity. Termites, carpenter ants, and other wood-destroying insects cause extensive structural damage. Look for mud tubes, wood dust, holes in wood siding, or soft, damaged wood. Pest damage requires professional assessment and treatment before repairs begin.
Examine paint condition on wood siding or trim. Peeling, blistering, or chipping paint exposes wood to moisture leading to rot. Scrape and repaint damaged areas to protect underlying wood. Research shows properly painted wood siding lasts 50-75% longer than poorly maintained siding.
Inspect windows and doors for proper sealing. Gaps around windows and doors cause drafts, energy loss, and water intrusion. Check weatherstripping and replace if damaged or worn. Inspect caulking around frames and recaulk if cracked or missing. Research shows properly sealed windows and doors improve energy efficiency by 15-25%.
Check trim and fascia for rot or damage. These areas are particularly vulnerable to water damage and rot. Soft or spongy wood indicates rot requiring replacement. Research shows timely repair of damaged trim prevents more extensive and expensive repairs to underlying structures.
Plumbing system maintenance prevents water damage, ensures proper water delivery and drainage, and addresses issues before they become emergencies.
Check all faucets for leaks or drips. Even slow drips waste significant water and may indicate worn washers or other issues. Under-sink leaks cause water damage, mold growth, and structural issues. Check connections, supply lines, and drain pipes regularly. Research shows fixing leaky faucets reduces water bills by 10-15% and prevents water damage.
Inspect toilets for leaks. Check for water at base indicating wax ring failure, and test tank to bowl connection for leaks. Leaking toilets waste enormous amounts of water - up to 200 gallons daily for serious leaks. Add food coloring to tank and wait 30 minutes without flushing - color in bowl indicates leak.
Test water pressure throughout house. Pressure that's too high damages pipes and fixtures, while low pressure indicates supply issues or sediment buildup. Ideal residential water pressure is 40-60 PSI. Install pressure regulator if pressure exceeds 80 PSI. Research shows proper water pressure extends plumbing system lifespan by 25-35%.
Check for slow drains in sinks, tubs, and showers. Slow drainage indicates clogs developing in drain lines. Address minor clogs with drain cleaners or plungers before they become complete blockages requiring professional snaking. Avoid using chemical drain cleaners regularly as they damage pipes.
Inspect water heater for leaks, corrosion, or proper operation. Check for water pooling around tank, rust on tank surface, unusual noises, or inadequate hot water. Flush water heater annually to remove sediment buildup extending lifespan. Most water heaters last 10-15 years with proper maintenance.
Electrical system maintenance ensures safety, prevents fires, and maintains reliable power throughout your home.
Test all outlets for proper function using outlet tester or by plugging in devices. Check for loose fitting plugs, broken faceplates, or outlets that don't work. Warm outlets or switches indicate potential hazards requiring immediate professional assessment. Flickering lights or frequently tripping breakers indicate electrical problems.
Inspect visible wiring for damage, exposed conductors, or improper connections. Never attempt electrical repairs unless qualified - electrical work presents serious safety hazards. Check for outdated wiring such as knob and tube or aluminum wiring, which may require professional evaluation.
Examine circuit breaker panel for signs of problems. Check for warm breakers, frequently tripped breakers, signs of arcing (burn marks or smell), and proper labeling of circuits. Research shows properly maintained electrical systems have 70-80% lower fire risk than poorly maintained systems.
Test all smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors monthly. Replace batteries at least twice annually, and replace detectors every 10 years. Install detectors on every level of home, outside sleeping areas, and inside bedrooms for maximum protection. Research shows homes with working smoke detectors have 50-60% lower fire fatality risk.
Check GFCI outlets in bathrooms, kitchens, garages, and exterior locations. Press test button monthly to ensure proper function. GFCI outlets protect against electrical shock in wet locations and save lives. Research shows GFCI outlets reduce electrocution risk by 80%.
HVAC system maintenance ensures comfort, energy efficiency, and extends equipment lifespan through regular care and timely repairs.
Replace air filters every 1-3 months depending on filter type and household factors. Dirty filters reduce efficiency, increase energy costs, and strain system components. High-efficiency filters capture more allergens but require more frequent replacement. Research shows regular filter replacement improves HVAC efficiency by 15-20%.
Check thermostat for proper operation and accurate temperature control. Calibrate if necessary and consider upgrading to programmable or smart thermostat for energy savings. Research shows programmable thermostats reduce heating and cooling costs by 10-15%.
Inspect air vents and registers for blockages from furniture, drapes, or obstructions. Ensure vents open and close properly and air flows freely. Clean vent covers periodically to remove dust buildup. Research shows unobstructed vents improve HVAC efficiency by 10-15%.
Listen for unusual sounds from HVAC system. Squealing, grinding, rattling, or banging sounds indicate problems requiring professional attention. Normal operation produces only sound of air moving through ducts and system cycling on and off.
Check for uneven heating or cooling throughout house. Temperature differences indicate problems with ductwork, insulation, or system operation. Address imbalances promptly to improve comfort and efficiency. Research shows properly balanced HVAC systems improve efficiency by 15-20%.
Inspect outdoor HVAC unit for debris, damage, or vegetation obstructing airflow. Maintain 2-3 feet clearance around unit. Clean unit fins carefully and ensure unit sits level on concrete pad. Research shows properly maintained outdoor units improve efficiency by 10-15%.
Interior walls and ceilings maintain appearance, hide structural components, and protect from external elements through proper maintenance.
Check walls for cracks, holes, or damage. Hairline cracks often result from normal settling, while larger cracks may indicate structural issues. Document crack size and location for professional assessment if concerning. Small holes from nails or minor damage repair easily with spackle and paint.
Inspect ceilings for water stains, damage, or sagging. Water stains typically indicate roof or plumbing leaks requiring immediate attention. Sagging ceilings may indicate water damage or structural issues requiring professional evaluation. Research shows water damage addressed within 48 hours costs 60-70% less to repair than damage left unaddressed.
Look for peeling paint or wallpaper. Paint peeling often indicates moisture problems requiring investigation and resolution before repainting. Wallpaper peeling may indicate moisture issues or adhesive failure requiring wall preparation before rehanging.
Check for mold or mildew growth. Mold requires moisture, so identifying and eliminating moisture source is essential to prevent recurrence. Small areas of mold (less than 10 square feet) may be cleaned DIY using proper precautions, while larger areas require professional remediation. Research shows mold removal within 48 hours prevents 80-90% of related structural damage.
Inspect door and window frames for gaps, damage, or separation from walls. Gaps allow drafts, pests, and moisture intrusion. Re-caulk as needed and repair damaged frames. Research shows properly sealed frames improve energy efficiency by 10-15%.
Flooring maintenance ensures appearance, safety, and extends lifespan through proper care and timely repairs.
Inspect hardwood floors for scratches, gouges, or water damage. Minor scratches may be touched up with wood filler or stain. Warped or cupping boards indicate water damage requiring source identification and repair before floor restoration. Research shows properly maintained hardwood floors last 40-50% longer than neglected floors.
Check carpet for stains, wear, or damage. Professional cleaning every 12-18 months extends carpet life. Address stains promptly and replace severely worn or damaged sections. Consider replacement when carpet shows significant wear or no longer cleans effectively.
Look for loose, cracked, or damaged tiles. Loose tiles indicate adhesive failure or subfloor issues requiring attention. Cracked tiles may result from impact or underlying issues. Replacing individual damaged tiles maintains appearance and prevents water intrusion.
Check for squeaky floorboards. Squeaks result from loose boards rubbing against each other or nails. Fix squeaks by securing boards from below if access available, or using specialized screws from above. Research shows addressing squeaks prevents further loosening and damage.
Inspect laminate or vinyl flooring for damage, warping, or water damage. These materials resist water but damage occurs when water seeps between planks or underneath flooring. Replace damaged planks to prevent further deterioration.
Check for gaps between flooring pieces or transition strips. Gaps allow moisture infiltration and dust accumulation. Replace damaged transition strips or re-install flooring sections to eliminate gaps.
Windows and doors provide access, security, and energy efficiency through proper operation and maintenance.
Test all windows for proper opening and closing. Windows should open, close, and lock smoothly. Difficulty operating windows indicates problems with hardware, tracks, or alignment. Lubricate tracks and hardware regularly and address problems promptly.
Check for broken or cracked glass. Replace broken panes immediately for safety and security. Consider upgrading to double- or triple-pane energy-efficient windows during replacement for long-term energy savings.
Inspect weatherstripping around windows and doors. Worn or damaged weatherstripping causes drafts, energy loss, and moisture intrusion. Replace weatherstripping when worn or no longer providing seal. Research shows properly weatherstripped openings improve energy efficiency by 15-20%.
Check door hinges, locks, and hardware for proper operation. Tighten loose screws, lubricate moving parts, and replace damaged hardware. Test locks and deadbolts to ensure proper security function. Research shows properly maintained doors and windows reduce burglary risk by 30-40%.
Look for fog or condensation between window panes in double- or triple-pane windows. This indicates seal failure requiring window replacement to restore efficiency and appearance.
Check window screens for damage or tears. Damaged screens allow insects to enter and reduce comfort. Replace damaged screens or repair small tears with screen repair kits.
Kitchen and bathroom areas experience heavy use, moisture exposure, and require regular maintenance to prevent problems and maintain functionality.
Check countertops for cracks, chips, or damage. Small chips in laminate or solid surface countertops may be repaired with filler kits. Cracked or damaged countertops may require replacement depending on material and extent of damage.
Inspect caulking around sinks, tubs, and showers. Cracked or missing caulking allows water intrusion behind fixtures causing damage and mold growth. Remove old caulking and re-caulk with quality silicone caulking designed for wet areas. Research shows properly caulked wet areas prevent 70-80% of water damage incidents.
Check cabinet hardware for looseness or damage. Tighten loose knobs, pulls, and hinges. Replace damaged hardware. Check cabinet drawers and doors for proper operation.
Inspect grout in tile for cracks, chips, or missing sections. Damaged grout allows water intrusion behind tile causing substrate damage and tile failure. Clean grout regularly and repair damaged areas promptly. Research shows properly maintained tile lasts 30-40% longer than neglected tile.
Check faucets and fixtures for proper operation and leaks. dripping faucets waste water and may indicate worn washers or cartridges requiring replacement. Low water pressure may indicate aerator cleaning or fixture replacement.
Look for water damage under sinks. Water stains, mold growth, or soft cabinet bottoms indicate leaks requiring immediate attention. Check supply lines and drain connections regularly.
Check for mold or mildew in bathrooms, especially in shower areas, around toilets, and under sinks. Mold requires moisture, so identifying and eliminating moisture source prevents recurrence. Research shows properly ventilated bathrooms reduce mold growth by 70-80%.
Inspect toilet for proper flushing and sealing. Leaks at base indicate wax ring failure requiring replacement. Running toilets waste water and indicate flush mechanism problems. Research shows properly functioning toilets reduce water consumption by 20-30% compared to leaking toilets.
Safety and security measures protect your home and family from accidents, emergencies, and intrusion.
Test smoke detectors throughout house monthly using test button. Replace batteries at least twice annually, and replace entire detectors every 10 years. Install detectors on every level, outside sleeping areas, and inside bedrooms. Research shows homes with working smoke detectors have 50-60% lower fire fatality risk.
Test carbon monoxide detectors monthly. Carbon monoxide is odorless, colorless, and deadly. Install detectors near sleeping areas and fuel-burning appliances. Replace batteries regularly and detectors every 5-7 years.
Check fire extinguisher expiration dates and pressure gauge. Extinguishers should be inspected annually and replaced or serviced every 6-12 years. Maintain extinguishers in kitchen, garage, and near heating sources.
Inspect door and window locks for proper operation. Ensure all exterior doors have deadbolts with minimum 1-inch throw. Check that windows lock securely. Research shows homes with proper locks and security measures experience 30-40% fewer burglaries.
Test security system if installed. Test all sensors, motion detectors, and entry points. Ensure monitoring service subscription is current and contact list updated. Test system monthly for proper operation.
Check exterior lighting for proper function. Motion-activated lights and timed lighting improve security and safety. Replace burned-out bulbs promptly. Research shows well-lit properties experience 20-30% fewer crimes.
Inspect handrails on stairs for stability and proper mounting. Loose or damaged handrails represent serious safety hazards. Tighten or replace immediately. Research shows properly installed handrails prevent 60-70% of stairway falls.
Check for tripping hazards indoors and outdoors. Secure loose rugs, repair uneven surfaces, and clear clutter from walkways. Research shows addressing tripping hazards reduces fall injuries by 40-50%.
Attic and crawl space areas, though often overlooked, significantly impact home performance, energy efficiency, and structural integrity.
Inspect attic insulation condition. Compressed, wet, or insufficient insulation reduces energy efficiency. Ensure insulation depth meets recommended levels for your climate. Research shows properly insulated attics reduce heating and cooling costs by 20-30%.
Check for signs of roof leaks in attic. Water stains, wet insulation, or daylight visible through roof indicate roof problems requiring prompt repair. Research shows detecting roof leaks from attic inspection costs 70-80% less to repair than leaks causing ceiling damage.
Look for pest activity or droppings. Rodents, bats, birds, and other pests take up residence in attics and cause damage, contamination, and health hazards. Seal entry points and address infestations promptly.
Check attic ventilation. Proper ventilation prevents moisture buildup, reduces cooling costs in summer, and prevents ice dams in winter. Ensure soffit vents and ridge vents are clear of insulation and debris. Research shows proper attic ventilation reduces attic temperatures by 30-40 degrees in summer.
Inspect crawl space for moisture or water intrusion. Standing water or excessive moisture causes mold, rot, and structural damage. Ensure proper drainage and consider vapor barrier installation. Research shows properly maintained crawl spaces prevent 60-70% of moisture-related structural damage.
Check for vapor barrier condition. Vapor barriers prevent ground moisture from entering crawl space and home. Ensure barrier covers entire ground area, is sealed at seams and around foundation walls, and is free of damage.
Look for mold or mildew in attic or crawl space. Mold requires moisture - identify and eliminate moisture source before remediation. Small areas may be cleaned DIY while larger areas require professional remediation.
Check structural components in attic or crawl space. Look for sagging joists, cracked beams, or other structural issues requiring professional assessment. Research shows early detection of structural problems reduces repair costs by 40-60%.
Inspect wiring visible in attic or crawl space. Look for damaged insulation, improper connections, or amateur wiring modifications. Never attempt electrical repairs unless qualified.
Garage and storage areas require maintenance to ensure safe operation, proper storage, and protection of stored items and vehicles.
Inspect garage door opener for proper operation. Test safety features including auto-reverse mechanism and photoelectric sensors. Lubricate moving parts and adjust springs and cables if operating roughly. Research shows properly maintained garage door openers last 10-15 years while neglected units fail in 5-7 years.
Check garage door for damage or misalignment. Look for dents, bent panels, or uneven operation. Damaged doors may not operate safely or seal properly. Repair or replace damaged sections promptly.
Inspect garage door springs and cables. These components are under extreme tension and require professional inspection and repair. Look for signs of wear, rust, or damage. Broken springs or cables prevent door operation and present serious safety hazards.
Check for water intrusion in garage. Water stains on walls or floors, efflorescence on masonry, or musty smells indicate moisture problems. Address drainage issues to prevent damage to stored items and garage structure.
Inspect garage lighting and electrical outlets. Replace burned-out bulbs and check outlets for proper function. Ensure lighting is adequate for safe use of space. Research shows proper garage lighting reduces accidents by 30-40%.
Check for pest activity in garage or storage areas. Rodents, insects, and other pests cause damage to stored items and create unsanitary conditions. Seal entry points and address infestations promptly.
Inspect garage walls and ceiling for damage. Cracks, water damage, or structural issues require attention. Garage ceilings supporting living space above require particular attention.
Check for proper ventilation in garage, especially if attached to house or housing vehicles running inside. Proper ventilation prevents buildup of fumes and reduces moisture. Research shows proper garage ventilation reduces indoor air pollution from garage sources by 60-70%.
Test smoke detectors in garage if installed. Garages house vehicles, chemicals, and other fire hazards requiring smoke detection for safety.
House repair requires consistent attention, proper prioritization, and knowing when DIY is appropriate versus when professional help is needed. By following this house repair checklist systematically, homeowners maintain property value, prevent costly emergencies, and enjoy safe, comfortable living environment. Research shows homes with regular maintenance and timely repairs experience 40-50% fewer major repair emergencies and maintain 15-25% higher property values than poorly maintained homes. Effective house repair balances preventive maintenance, prompt attention to emerging issues, and realistic assessment of DIY capabilities. For additional home maintenance guidance, explore our home maintenance checklist, home safety essentials, budget planning guide, and emergency preparedness checklist.
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The following sources were referenced in the creation of this checklist: