Easy Guide to Summer Home Maintenance

The term maintenance isn’t exactly inspiring. A seasonal to-do list around the house may not drum up excitement, but a little effort now can protect what you love most—your home. From the foundation to the roof, regular upkeep preserves your property’s value and prevents costly repairs down the road.

The good news? Home maintenance tasks are naturally spread throughout the year, creating home maintenance checklists by season. Summer’s home maintenance list is short, straightforward, and aimed to keep your home looking great, just in time for backyard barbecues and long evenings outdoors.

Summer Home Maintenance Checklists

Depending on your relationship with the property, your summer maintenance checklist will look a little different:

• Homeowners maintain the property for personal enjoyment, long-term function, or future sale.
• Tenants are responsible for basic upkeep outlined in their lease.
• Landlords handle major systems and property upkeep, especially when prepping a rental for new tenants.

While some responsibilities overlap, each role comes with unique tasks. Here’s how they break down.

General Summer Home Maintenance Chores

Whether you’re living in your home, renting it out, or preparing to sell, here’s how to keep things in top shape this summer.

• Window and screen cleaning and repair. After spring showers and winter storms, your windows need attention. Wash the glass and clean the screens to let summer light pour in. Homeowners should replace damaged or torn screens. Tenants can clean what’s there and should request replacements if needed.
• Reverse ceiling fans. Set your ceiling fans to spin counterclockwise in summer (when looking up at them). This creates a downdraft that helps cool the room more efficiently.
• Replace air filters. Before the A/C kicks into high gear to keep up with rising temps, swap out the old filters. It improves air quality and keeps your cooling system running efficiently.
• Clean pavement and decks. Dirt builds up more than you think. Use a pressure washer to freshen up the driveway and walkways. Don’t forget the deck and fence. They’ll be better after a rinse, too.
• Baseboards and floors. Mud and grime from spring rains often get tracked indoors. Give baseboards, tile grout, and carpeted areas a thorough cleaning. Consider a professional carpet cleaning for a fresh start.

Related: Which Repairs Are NOT Your Landlord’s Responsibility?

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Summer Home Maintenance for Homeowners and Landlords

While tenants handle routine upkeep, homeowners and landlords take on the larger tasks that protect the home’s structure, systems, and value. These projects go beyond surface cleaning and focus on prevention, safety, and long-term maintenance.

• Inspect the attic and basement. Check the attic for leaks, pests, or animal droppings that could pose health risks or indicate unwelcome guests. Seal entry points and clean up any messes. Then, inspect the basement for moisture, mold, or mildew that may have developed over spring.
• Clean gutters. ​​Leaves and debris from earlier seasons clog gutters and downspouts. Clear them out to prevent overflow or water damage. Sagging gutters may need repair or replacement.
• Make exterior repairs. Fix broken railings, cracked pavement, or loose tiles. These minor repairs prevent larger problems and make your property safer and more appealing. This step is especially important if you're preparing to sell or rent.
• Landscape. Even if you planted some flowers in the spring, look for more ways to make the property look loved and cared for. Perhaps just a pot of flowers by the front door is all you’ll need.
• Touch up exterior paint. Summer sun fades and chips exterior paint. Refresh high-visibility areas, like trim, shutters, or the front door. For homes going on the market soon, a more thorough touch-up can dramatically improve curb appeal and first impressions.
• Pest proof. In warm months, bugs are out in full force. Landlords should schedule regular pest control, especially in high-risk areas. 

Tip for landlords: Even if tenants handle day-to-day upkeep, it’s on you to tackle the bigger stuff. Regularly check in or have your property manager assess wear and tear, like determining whether the deck survived the winter intact or if it needs repair.

Let your love for your property fuel your motivation to complete these summer home maintenance services. While they may seem tedious, especially on paper, they’re key to keeping your home looking its best, regardless of whether your goal is to sell, rent, or enjoy the space yourself.