ADU Maintenance Guide
Keep your ADU in top condition with our comprehensive maintenance guide
Seasonal Maintenance Guide
Spring Maintenance
Exterior Tasks
- Inspect roof for winter damage
- Clean gutters and downspouts
- Check exterior paint and siding
- Test outdoor lighting
- Inspect foundation for cracks
Interior Tasks
- Deep clean all rooms
- Check smoke detectors
- Test HVAC system
- Inspect windows and screens
- Check for water damage
Summer Maintenance
Exterior Tasks
- Check irrigation systems
- Maintain drought-resistant landscaping
- Inspect for pest issues
- Clean outdoor spaces
- Check exterior caulking
Interior Tasks
- Service air conditioning
- Check for air leaks
- Clean dryer vents
- Inspect plumbing
- Test ceiling fans
Fall Maintenance
Exterior Tasks
- Clean gutters again
- Inspect roof and chimney
- Store outdoor furniture
- Trim trees and bushes
- Check exterior drainage
Interior Tasks
- Service heating system
- Check weatherstripping
- Inspect insulation
- Test carbon monoxide detectors
- Clean fireplace and chimney
Winter Maintenance
Exterior Tasks
- Check for ice dams
- Clear snow from walkways
- Protect pipes from freezing
- Monitor roof load
- Check outdoor lighting
Interior Tasks
- Monitor humidity levels
- Check for drafts
- Inspect attic ventilation
- Test emergency systems
- Clean HVAC filters
Systems & Components Maintenance
Plumbing System
Monthly Tasks
- Check for leaks
- Clean drain strainers
- Test water pressure
- Inspect caulking
Annual Tasks
- Flush water heater
- Inspect pipe insulation
- Clean aerators
- Check shut-off valves
Common Issues
- Low water pressure
- Dripping faucets
- Slow drains
- Running toilets
Electrical System
Monthly Tasks
- Test GFCI outlets
- Check for loose outlets
- Inspect visible wiring
- Test smoke detectors
Annual Tasks
- Professional inspection
- Clean light fixtures
- Check circuit breakers
- Update safety equipment
Warning Signs
- Flickering lights
- Hot outlets
- Tripping breakers
- Buzzing sounds
HVAC System
Monthly Tasks
- Change air filters
- Clean vents
- Check thermostat
- Listen for unusual noises
Annual Tasks
- Professional tune-up
- Clean ductwork
- Check refrigerant levels
- Inspect heat exchanger
Efficiency Tips
- Regular filter changes
- Seal duct leaks
- Clean outdoor unit
- Maintain clearances
Preventive Maintenance
Moisture Control
- Monitor humidity levels (30-50%)
- Use bathroom fans during showers
- Clean gutters regularly
- Check for water stains
- Maintain proper ventilation
Pest Prevention
- Seal entry points
- Keep food sealed
- Remove standing water
- Trim vegetation near walls
- Regular inspections
Energy Efficiency
- Seal air leaks
- Maintain insulation
- Clean HVAC components
- Use LED lighting
- Check appliance efficiency
Emergency Preparedness
Earthquake Safety
- Secure heavy furniture
- Install automatic gas shutoff
- Keep emergency supplies
- Know utility locations
- Have evacuation plan
Fire Safety
- Working smoke detectors
- Fire extinguishers
- Clear escape routes
- Emergency contacts list
- Regular drills
Flood Prevention
- Maintain drainage
- Install backflow valves
- Elevate utilities
- Waterproof basement
- Emergency pump ready
Landscaping Maintenance
Drought-Resistant Design
- Native plant selection
- Mulch application
- Efficient irrigation
- Soil management
- Water conservation
Hardscape Care
- Clean pathways
- Repair cracks
- Maintain drainage
- Check lighting
- Seal surfaces
Safety Features
- Clear walkways
- Proper lighting
- Secure fencing
- Trip hazard removal
- Emergency access
Maintenance Checklist
Monthly Tasks
- Test smoke detectors
- Clean HVAC filters
- Check plumbing for leaks
- Inspect outdoor lighting
- Clean drains
- Check door/window locks
- Monitor humidity levels
- Inspect fire extinguishers
Quarterly Tasks
- Deep clean all rooms
- Check caulking/weatherstripping
- Inspect roof and gutters
- Test GFCI outlets
- Clean outdoor spaces
- Check foundation vents
- Inspect insulation
- Service HVAC system
Annual Tasks
- Professional HVAC service
- Chimney inspection
- Roof inspection
- Pest inspection
- Drain water heater
- Check structural elements
- Update emergency supplies
- Review insurance coverage
Need Professional Maintenance Help?
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