Commonly Missed Home Maintenance
HOME MAINTENANCE
Don't be a statistic! Avoid costly repairs by tackling these commonly overlooked home maintenance tasks.
Let’s be real—home maintenance isn’t exactly the most exciting part of homeownership. But neglecting routine tasks can lead to costly repairs that hit your wallet hard. Below are some of the most commonly overlooked home maintenance tasks, the cost of skipping them, and why they should be at the top of your to-do list.
1. Cleaning Your Gutters
Why It Matters: Gutters direct water away from your home, preventing water damage to your foundation, siding, and roof.
Risk If Ignored: Clogged gutters can lead to water overflow, causing foundation cracks, basement flooding, and roof damage.
Average Repair Cost:
Foundation repair: $4,000–$12,000
Roof damage: $500–$2,500
Water damage restoration: $3,000–$7,000
DIY Tip: Clean gutters at least twice a year (spring and fall) and check for loose or damaged sections.
2. Not Changing HVAC Filters
Why It Matters: Dirty filters reduce airflow and force your HVAC system to work harder, leading to higher energy bills and system failure.
Risk If Ignored: Overworked HVAC systems can break down, leading to expensive repairs or full replacements.
Average Repair Cost:
HVAC repair: $150–$1,500
Full HVAC replacement: $5,000–$12,000
DIY Tip: Change filters every 1-3 months, depending on pet dander, dust, and household allergens.
3. Skipping Water Heater Maintenance
Why It Matters: Sediment buildup in water heaters reduces efficiency and increases the risk of leaks and failure.
Risk If Ignored: A neglected water heater can burst, causing severe water damage and requiring a replacement.
Average Repair Cost:
Water heater replacement: $800–$2,500
Water damage restoration: $3,000–$7,000
DIY Tip: Drain and flush your water heater once a year to remove sediment buildup.
4. Ignoring Small Plumbing Leaks
Why It Matters: Even tiny leaks can lead to mold growth, structural damage, and high water bills.
Risk If Ignored: A small drip can turn into a major leak, causing extensive water damage.
Average Repair Cost:
Pipe leak repair: $150–$1,000
Mold remediation: $1,500–$6,000
DIY Tip: Regularly check under sinks, around toilets, and behind appliances for leaks and fix them promptly.
5. Forgetting to Seal Windows and Doors
Why It Matters: Gaps in window and door seals let in drafts, increasing energy bills and allowing moisture to seep in.
Risk If Ignored: Poor insulation leads to higher heating/cooling costs, and moisture intrusion can cause wood rot and mold.
Average Repair Cost:
Window replacement: $300–$1,200 per window
Door replacement: $500–$2,500
Mold removal: $1,500–$6,000
DIY Tip: Apply weather stripping and caulk around windows and doors annually.
6. Failing to Clean Dryer Vents
Why It Matters: Lint buildup in dryer vents is a major fire hazard and reduces your dryer's efficiency.
Risk If Ignored: Clogged vents can cause overheating, leading to dryer fires or breakdowns.
Average Repair Cost:
Fire damage restoration: $10,000+
Dryer repair/replacement: $150–$1,000
DIY Tip: Clean the lint trap after every use and vacuum the dryer vent at least once a year.
7. Not Checking for Roof Damage
Why It Matters: Small cracks, missing shingles, and leaks can quickly turn into expensive repairs.
Risk If Ignored: Water leaks can cause attic damage, mold growth, and structural issues.
Average Repair Cost:
Roof repair: $500–$3,000
Roof replacement: $10,000–$18,000
Water damage restoration: $3,000–$7,000
DIY Tip: Inspect your roof after storms and replace missing or damaged shingles ASAP.
8. Skipping Annual Pest Inspections
Why It Matters: Termites, rodents, and other pests can cause structural damage and health issues.
Risk If Ignored: A small pest problem can escalate into an infestation, leading to extensive damage.
Average Repair Cost:
Termite damage repair: $3,000–$8,000
Pest control treatment: $150–$1,500
DIY Tip: Schedule an annual pest inspection and seal entry points around your home.
9. Ignoring Your Sump Pump
Why It Matters: Sump pumps prevent basement flooding by directing water away from your home.
Risk If Ignored: If your sump pump fails during heavy rain, your basement can flood, causing thousands in damages.
Average Repair Cost:
Sump pump replacement: $500–$2,000
Water damage restoration: $3,000–$7,000
DIY Tip: Test your sump pump quarterly by pouring water into the pit to ensure it activates properly.
10. Forgetting to Test Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Why It Matters: These detectors are your first line of defense against house fires and carbon monoxide poisoning.
Risk If Ignored: A dead battery or faulty unit can mean the difference between safety and disaster.
Average Repair Cost:
Fire damage restoration: $10,000+
Medical costs for CO poisoning: Varies, but life-threatening
DIY Tip: Test alarms monthly and replace batteries every six months.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late!
The cost of neglecting home maintenance far outweighs the effort of simple, routine tasks. Use our monthly maintenance checklist and set reminders, or sign up below for our monthly email notifications each month to stay on top of your home’s upkeep to avoid costly repairs and keep everything running smoothly.