Congratulations on your new home. Regular upkeep protects your investment and prevents small problems from becoming expensive ones. Here’s a simple schedule to follow.
Your first month
- Change the locks, or rekey them.
- Find the main water shutoff, the electrical panel, and the gas shutoff, and label them.
- Test every smoke and carbon monoxide detector.
- Go back through your inspection report and schedule any repairs it flagged.
- Set up a folder for your deed or co-op documents, warranties, manuals, and receipts.
Every month
- Test smoke and CO detectors.
- Check under sinks and around toilets for leaks.
- Clean the range hood filter and the garbage disposal.
Every season
- Fall: service the boiler or furnace before heating season, clean gutters, and seal drafty windows and doors.
- Winter: shut off and drain outdoor spigots, keep pipes in unheated areas from freezing, and clear snow and ice from sidewalks. NYC property owners must clear their sidewalks within set hours after snow stops.
- Spring: inspect the roof and flashing, check the basement for water, and clean gutters again.
- Summer: service air conditioners, clean dryer vents, and check caulking in bathrooms and the kitchen.
Every year
- Replace detector batteries (unless they’re sealed 10-year units).
- Flush the water heater to clear sediment.
- Review your homeowners or HO-6 insurance coverage.
- Check that your property tax exemptions, such as STAR, are still applied.
Condo and co-op owners
Your building handles the roof, the structure, and shared systems, but you’re usually responsible for everything inside your unit. Check your bylaws or proprietary lease, and get board approval before renovations.
Rental units you own
If your property has tenants, you’re also responsible for heat, hot water, and repairs under the housing code. See our Landlord Resources.