Homeowners Exterior Maintenance Responsibilities

Homeowners are typically responsible for the maintenance of their home's exterior to ensure it remains in good condition, maintains curb appeal, and complies with local regulations and HOA requirements.

While specific responsibilities may vary based on location, neighborhood, and HOA rules, here are the general exterior maintenance tasks homeowners should keep up with:

1.  Roof Maintenance 

• Check for missing or damaged shingles, leaks, or cracks.
• Remove leaves, branches, or other debris that may accumulate on the roof.
• Ensure roof flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights is in good condition, and clean gutters regularly.

2. Exterior Walls and Siding 

• Look for cracks, holes, or signs of water damage in the siding or paint.
• Repaint or reseal the exterior surfaces as needed to protect against the elements and maintain appearance.
• Clean siding, particularly if it’s exposed to dirt, mold, or mildew.

3.  Windows and Doors 

• Inspect window and door frames for any gaps, cracks, or signs of water damage. Replace weatherstripping if necessary.
• Wash windows and clean tracks. Ensure doors and windows open and close properly.
• Inspect seals around windows and doors to ensure they are airtight, helping with energy efficiency.

4. Landscaping and Lawn Care 

• Regularly mow the lawn and trim edges to keep the yard neat.
• Remove weeds from flower beds, lawns, and walkways.
• Add mulch to flower beds, and prune trees or shrubs to prevent overgrowth.
• Collect fallen leaves and debris to keep the yard tidy and avoid clogging drains.

5. Driveways, Walkways, and Patios 

• Repair any cracks or damage in driveways, walkways, and patios.
• Sweep or pressure wash surfaces to maintain cleanliness and remove stains.

6.  Fencing and Gates 

• Check for loose, broken, or leaning fence posts and panels.
• Touch up or repaint wood fences to prevent weathering.
• Lubricate hinges and fix any issues with gates not opening or closing properly.

7. Outdoor Lighting 

• Regularly check and replace bulbs in outdoor lights for safety and security.
• Clean the exterior of light fixtures to keep them working efficiently.

8. Decks, Porches, and Patios 

• Check wooden decks for splinters or rotting and repair as needed.
• Power wash and reseal wood decks or patios to protect against weather damage.
• Ensure railings are secure and steps are in good condition.

9. Trash Cans and Storage Areas 

• Make sure trash cans are stored out of sight, either in the garage or a designated enclosure.
• Regularly wash trash bins to prevent odor buildup and pests.

10. Exterior Fixtures and Equipment 

• Clean and check any exterior appliances like air conditioning units, grills, or water heaters to ensure they are functioning correctly.
• If you have a sprinkler system, inspect it for leaks, damage, or clogged nozzles.

11. Pest Control 

• Look for signs of pests or rodents around the exterior of the home.
• Close any gaps around pipes, vents, or windows to prevent pests from entering the home.

12. Safety Features 

• Check outdoor steps and railings for stability, especially if the home has stairs or elevated platforms.
• Make sure any exterior security cameras or lighting are functioning.

Maintaining the exterior of your home helps protect your property value, ensures safety, and keeps your home looking its best. Keeping up with these tasks regularly can save you from costly repairs in the future.

Check out a few tips on maintaining the exterior of your home!