Home Maintenance Checklist for September
Following an annual maintenance routine helps you to avoid costly repairs and keep your home a happy, healthy, and safe place to be.
Homeownership comes with a significant responsibility that some people don’t understand when they decide to become homeowners. Home Maintenance is an ongoing, vital part of homeownership. As reported by the National Association of REALTORS®, nearly one in five people said they regretted buying a house because of the chore of maintaining it.[1]
While tidying up messes and washing dishes are a daily chore, there are much larger, important tasks to perform annually. Home maintenance includes surveying and diagnosing what needs attention, and then repairing the problem or hiring a professional who can do it for you.
The consequences of forgoing home maintenance can be devastating. Homeowners reported consequences like water damage, surface damage, mold, structural damage, freeze damage, pest infestation, and fire hazards, not to mention the consequence reported by nearly half of respondents: the additional cost to fix the problem.
The Reward for Home Maintenance
In addition to well-documented cost savings (as small problems are much easier to repair than large ones), you’ll minimize safety hazards and health risks, increase (or at least maintain) your home’s value, and keep your home looking great!
Setting a Month-Based Schedule
Because homes need constant maintenance, a month-based schedule is the best way to prioritize tasks.
September Home Maintenance Checklist
With cooler days ahead, September is the time to consider air quality, heating elements, and cold-weather prep.
What to look for:
- Is there dust & mold build-up in the vents and exhaust fans? You may want to add certain areas to a regular cleaning regimen and install a dehumidifying option.
- Are there areas in the home that need storage solutions? With back-to-school season upon us and scarf weather drawing near, it’s a good time to consider where items are naturally piling up and what storage solutions could exist. (Inexpensive storage options area always tied with school supply sales.)
- Does the lawn need to be patched? The weeds are beginning to die back but the frost hasn’t come to our region yet, so this is the time to start considering next year’s lawn. You may decide to aerate the soil, dethatch stubborn areas, and lay grass seed.
- Does any of the lawn equipment need servicing? Clean blades and remove batteries before storing any of these items away.
When to Call a Professional:
- Roof Inspection, Shingle Repair and New Roof Installation
- Boiler/Furnace/HVAC Inspection
- Chimney Cleaning
- Pest Control
September Home Maintenance - Inside Tasks
- Inspect and clean exhaust fans and vents.
- Replace air filters.
- Clean and reseal windows.
- Touch up paint.
- Ensure all appliances are operational.
September Home Maintenance - Outside Tasks
- Shingle repair or roof replacement.
- Clean siding and reaffix slats.
- Fix or replace broken cement, pavers, or boards on walkways and entryways
- Lawn care and lawn equipment maintenance
September Home Maintenance – Final Thoughts
September is the best time to shop for appliances and other major home goods because next year’s models are rolling out. Think large appliances like dish washers, washing machines, refrigerators, grills and air purifiers and small appliances like coffee makers, blenders, food processors, and Bluetooth speakers. Usually, you can also find good deals on college-related items like laptops, inexpensive storage, bedding, office furniture and supplies, as well as mattresses and patio furniture.
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