Annual Home Audit Checklist

Clean your HVAC system’s filters and air vents to prevent excess dust buildup. 

Inspect filters in your oven and furnace to make sure they are working properly and have no debris buildup. If needed, replace your filters. 

If you have a chimney, contact a qualified professional to inspect it before use. 

Inspect your home’s walls and ceilings for any cracks, leaks or other types of deterioration. Pay special attention to the attic or crawl space. Make repairs as needed. 

Repair damaged steps and tighten loose handrails in your stairwells. Consider adding slip-resistant padding or paint to your stairs if they are not carpeted. 

Check your home for signs of pests and call a certified pest control manager if you find any evidence. Signs could include droppings, nests and wood damage. 

Check windows, doors and screens to make sure they are properly installed. Watch for broken glass, cracks or chipped paint, and repair as needed. 

Consider switching from corded blinds to cordless blinds to reduce choking risks for pets or children, if applicable. 

Inspect your home’s foundation for any cracks, sinking or deterioration. Contact a qualified contractor for any serious concerns and be sure to make the necessary repairs as soon as you can. 

Clean out gutters, exterior vents and pipes to remove any debris. 

Check your roof for any missing shingles, dents, loose items or other damages. Make repairs and clean your roof as needed. 

Inspect your home’s siding for chipped paint, cracks, excess moisture or other damages. Make repairs and clean your siding as needed. 

Clear your driveway and any walkways in your yard of debris or other obstructions to help avoid slip and trip hazards. Be sure these areas are level and crack-free. 

Trim any tree branches that come close to your home or any other structures on your property. This can help prevent damage from these branches in the event of a storm. 

Consider installing exterior lighting to keep your yard well-lit when it gets dark and help avoid any potential slips or trips. 

If applicable, maintain any outdoor play equipment, such as play sets or trampolines, to help avoid safety hazards. Also, if applicable, keep your pool clean and covered when not in use and make sure access barriers and alarms are in working order. 

Ensure all fencing is sturdy and in good condition, and is secured with a locking gate. Make repairs as needed. 

Check all outdoor furniture, tools and appliances for any safety concerns. Repair or replace these items if needed, and store them in a safe, locked place, such as a shed or garage. 

If you have home security alarms, be sure they are in working order. Consider installing them if you have not already done so. Either way, be sure there are proper locks on all windows and doors, and install a sturdy deadbolt on each exterior door. 

Ensure that smoke alarms are properly installed in every bedroom, outside of sleeping areas and on every level of your home, including the basement. Test your smoke alarms each month for effectiveness and replace the batteries at least once a year. Replace the entire alarm every 10 years or in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. 

Make sure that carbon monoxide (CO) detectors are installed on every level of your home, including the basement. Test your CO detectors for effectiveness and replace their batteries if needed. Replace the entire alarm every seven years or in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. 

In areas of your home with an elevated fire risk, such as the kitchen and garage, make sure you place a portable fire extinguisher in an easy-to-access place. Be sure that every member of your household knows how to safely use a fire extinguisher. Inspect your extinguishers to be sure the pressure is adequate and all pieces are still intact. Replace your extinguishers when needed. 

Create a fire emergency escape plan that outlines different escape routes from different places in your house. Practice this plan with all members of your household so everyone is more prepared in the event of a fire. 

Consider installing a fire escape ladder near a window for each upstairs room in your house, and make sure all members of your household know how to use these ladders safely. 

Create a home emergency kit to be prepared for any potential disaster, and store it in a safe yet accessible place. This kit should include the following: 

Emergency documents (bank account numbers, insurance policies, etc.) 

Food and water 

First-aid supplies 

Extra clothes 

Flashlight and batteries 

Battery-powered radio 

Matches 

Electronic device chargers 

Sleeping bags 

Pliers (to help turn off utilities) 

Be sure that your house number is clearly visible from the street. This allows your home to be more easily identified and located in case of an emergency.