Owning and maintaining a home is much more than a spring clean and keeping up with mortgage payments. For many homeowners, the challenge lies in not knowing what yearly projects must be done, when they should be done, and how much they might cost.
This guide is designed to take the guesswork out of home maintenance by walking you through the essential annual inspections and projects that should be on every homeowner's to-do list. From roof checks to HVAC tune-ups, we'll outline key tasks and provide rough budget estimates, so you can plan and keep your home in top shape all year round. We also speak to top experts who explain the necessary steps and how best to budget.
Whether you're a new homeowner or a seasoned pro, this article will help you stay on top of maintenance, save money, and avoid costly surprises down the road.
How Much Does Home Maintenance Cost in 2024?
In 2024, homeowners can expect to spend around $3,136 on yearly maintenance. That works out to be roughly $261 a month. While it might not seem as excessive as some might say, this does not include any unforeseen repairs or damages that you may need to tackle. Instead, these are the annual check-ups, clean-ups, and tune-ups which, if left unattended, could result in costlier repairs or replacements later down the road.
Regular inspections and proactive maintenance can save money in the long run. Staying ahead of small issues before they become big problems is crucial.
Breakdown of Annual Routine Home Maintenance Costs
HVAC Maintenance
Average cost to hire a professional: $200
Investing in this yearly service ensures your home stays comfortable year-round and can save you money on energy bills. An annual HVAC service, typically costing around $200, includes a comprehensive inspection and tune-up by a professional technician. During this maintenance visit, the technician will clean or replace filters, check for any refrigerant leaks, inspect electrical connections, and ensure the system's components, like the blower and condenser coils, are in good working order.
Roof Inspection and Maintenance
Average cost to hire a professional: $230
Hiring a professional to carry out a roof inspection is essential home maintenance to make sure structural integrity and safety are upheld. An inspector will thoroughly assess all aspects of the roof, inside and out. They will check for leaks, mold growth, cracks, and any other signs of damage. This preventative annual measure can help avoid much costlier repairs if something goes unnoticed.
Regular inspection and cleaning of the roof can prevent leaks and water damage, which can lead to significant repair costs if neglected.
Water Heater Maintenance
Average cost to hire a professional: $175
Regular water heater maintenance is essential for ensuring efficient performance, extending it's lifespan, and preventing unexpected breakdowns. An annual water heater maintenance check, typically costing around an average of $175, involves a professional inspecting the unit for signs of wear, sediment buildup, and potential leaks. This service often includes flushing the tank to remove sediment that can reduce efficiency, checking the anode rod to prevent corrosion, and ensuring the thermostat and heating elements are functioning correctly.
Tree Trimming
Average cost to hire a professional: $450
While most landscaping maintenance tasks can be carried out DIY, tree trimming is often best left to the professionals. Often overlooked as a necessary home maintenance task, overgrown or unhealthy trees can pose serious risks to your property, from damaging roofs and power lines to creating hazards during storms. Also, overgrown trees can be a violation of HOA laws.
Weatherstripping
Average cost to hire a professional: $350
Weatherstripping your home plays a crucial role in sealing gaps around doors and windows, preventing drafts, reducing energy loss, and keeping your home comfortable year-round. It might not be essential to replace it every year, but it is wise to inspect it annually, make repairs where necessary, and renew it if it has worn down.
Gutter Cleaning
Average cost to hire a professional: $300
Now we know it’s possible to clean out your gutters yourself, but hiring a professional to come by before winter and summer seasons will make sure everything is in top working order. It’ll cost around $150 for each visit. Pros have tools that can make sure your gutters are fully cleared out, flushing downspouts in the process. They can also spot potential issues, such as sagging, leaks, or even potential roof damage. If you live in a two-story home, hiring a professional is a much safer option.
Don't forget about gutters and downspouts and keeping them clean prevents water damage to your foundation.
Appliance Maintenance
Average cost to hire a professional: $200
Regular yearly maintenance of appliances can be the difference between them fulfilling their lifespan or having breakdown issues earlier on. This maintenance typically includes cleaning internal components, checking for wear and tear, testing electrical connections, and ensuring that each appliance operates efficiently.
Window Cleaning
Average cost to hire a professional: $310
The build-up of dirt and grime on windows can reduce their lifespan, as well as their clarity. While cleaning now and again is useful, hiring a professional window cleaning service annually ensures they remain spotless and in good condition, enhancing both the appearance of your home and the amount of natural light it receives. It not only boosts your home's curb appeal but also helps to detect and prevent potential issues like damaged seals or frame deterioration.
Chimney Inspection and Cleaning
Average cost to hire a professional: $175
A chimney clean and inspection keeps it working properly. However, it is also essential for the safety of your fireplace or wood-burning stove. A professional will thoroughly clean the chimney, removing creosote buildup, soot, and debris that can pose a fire hazard. The inspection process includes checking the chimney structure, flue, and chimney cap for any signs of damage or blockages that could stop proper ventilation.
Pest Control
Average cost to hire a professional: $223
Depending on where you live in the country will determine the type of pest control your home needs, which can also affect the cost. On average, you can expect to pay around $223 for pest control, which could drop if you keep up with regular inspections and treatments. The service typically includes both preventative treatments and targeted solutions to address any current infestations. By investing in regular pest control, you can prevent structural damage, protect your family’s health from the risks pests can carry, and maintain a comfortable living environment.
Lawn Care
Average cost to hire a professional: $130
Another possible DIY project if you’re looking to cut down on costs, lawn care can be tricky depending on your local climate and the size of your lawn. A professional lawn expert will charge roughly $130 for an annual checkup and treatment, including fertilization, aeration, and weed control, as well as recommendations for watering and mowing practices. Regular inspections allow problems to be identified and addressed early, ensuring your lawn remains lush and green throughout the year.
Less Frequent Maintenance Tasks
Average cost to hire a professional annually: $393
When it comes to budgeting each year for home maintenance, you have to consider the tasks that experts recommend carrying out every 3 years or so. Therefore we have taken an average of 3 of these important tasks: septic tank cleaning ($450), sump pump maintenance ($200), and air duct cleaning ($530). By taking the average cost of these, you get a clearer idea of the money home maintenance costs each year.
Experts Say on Home Maintenance Budgeting
The most common home maintenance budgeting approach is the 1% rule. It calls for setting aside at least 1% (and as much as 4%) of your home value each year. This should include the unforeseen circumstances that you can’t plan for. One report found that 78% of homeowners had to pay for unexpected repairs in 2023. So it would be wise for homeowners to not only budget for the maintenance tasks listed above but also for the unexpected.
Mark Pierce, Founder & CEO of Wyoming Trust & LLC Attorney, advises: “For budgeting unforeseen repairs, I'd suggest having an emergency fund solely for maintenance issues. Save incrementally from monthly income, which will accumulate over time, easing the shock of unexpected expenditures.”
When asked whether the 1% rule of thumb is worth sticking by, Ethan Keller, President of Dominion, says that “it also depends on the home requirements and how old the home is. So, 1% is a good start, but rising it to 3% is the safe stop.”
While this guide gives you a good general overview of what you need to budget for, it’s worth considering the age of your home, the location, and any features that may be nearing the end of their lifespan.