Home Maintenance Guide

Keep your Florida home in top condition with our comprehensive maintenance schedule

Regular maintenance is key to protecting your investment and preventing costly repairs. This guide provides a comprehensive schedule tailored specifically for homes in Southwest Florida's unique climate.

Monthly Maintenance Tasks

Interior

  • ✓ Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
  • ✓ Check and replace HVAC filters
  • ✓ Run water in unused fixtures
  • ✓ Check under sinks for leaks
  • ✓ Test GFCI outlets
  • ✓ Clean garbage disposal

Exterior

  • ✓ Check irrigation system
  • ✓ Inspect pool equipment (if applicable)
  • ✓ Clear debris from gutters
  • ✓ Check outdoor lighting
  • ✓ Inspect for pest activity
  • ✓ Test garage door safety features

Seasonal Maintenance Schedule

local_floristSpring (March - May)

Prepare for summer heat and humidity

  • • Service AC system before summer
  • • Check and clean ceiling fans
  • • Pressure wash exterior surfaces
  • • Inspect and repair caulking
  • • Check irrigation coverage
  • • Fertilize lawn and plants
  • • Clean dryer vents
  • • Test hurricane shutters

wb_sunnySummer (June - August)

Hurricane season preparation

  • • Trim trees and shrubs
  • • Stock hurricane supplies
  • • Check roof for damage
  • • Clean and test sump pump
  • • Inspect weather stripping
  • • Service generator
  • • Review insurance policies
  • • Document belongings

parkFall (September - November)

Post-hurricane season recovery

  • • Inspect for storm damage
  • • Clean gutters thoroughly
  • • Check window and door seals
  • • Service heating system
  • • Adjust irrigation schedule
  • • Treat for fall pests
  • • Reseal driveway/pavers
  • • Test outdoor outlets

ac_unitWinter (December - February)

Cooler, drier weather maintenance

  • • Deep clean interior
  • • Service water heater
  • • Check attic ventilation
  • • Inspect fireplace (if applicable)
  • • Paint interior rooms
  • • Organize garage/storage
  • • Plan major renovations
  • • Schedule annual inspections

Annual Maintenance Checklist

homeStructure

  • □ Professional roof inspection
  • □ Termite inspection
  • □ Foundation check
  • □ Exterior paint touch-up
  • □ Deck/patio maintenance
  • □ Window cleaning

buildSystems

  • □ HVAC professional service
  • □ Plumbing inspection
  • □ Electrical panel check
  • □ Water heater flush
  • □ Septic service (if applicable)
  • □ Pool equipment service

securitySafety

  • □ Replace smoke detector batteries
  • □ Test emergency systems
  • □ Update emergency kit
  • □ Review evacuation plan
  • □ Check fire extinguishers
  • □ Update important documents

Florida-Specific Maintenance

Humidity Control

Florida's high humidity requires special attention to prevent mold and mildew:

  • • Keep indoor humidity between 30-50% using dehumidifiers
  • • Ensure proper ventilation in bathrooms and kitchens
  • • Check and clean AC drain lines monthly
  • • Inspect attic and crawl spaces for moisture

Pest Prevention

Year-round warm weather means constant vigilance against pests:

  • • Seal cracks and entry points quarterly
  • • Maintain 18" clearance between landscaping and home
  • • Remove standing water weekly
  • • Schedule quarterly pest control treatments

Salt Air Protection

Coastal properties need extra care to combat salt corrosion:

  • • Rinse exterior surfaces monthly with fresh water
  • • Apply protective coatings to metal surfaces
  • • Lubricate hinges and locks quarterly
  • • Inspect and maintain exterior paint annually

Keep a Maintenance Log

Maintaining detailed records helps track warranty periods, identify patterns, and provides valuable documentation for insurance claims or resale.

What to Track:

  • • Date of service/repair
  • • Description of work performed
  • • Contractor/technician name
  • • Cost and payment method
  • • Warranty information
  • • Before/after photos

Important Documents:

  • • Equipment manuals
  • • Warranty certificates
  • • Service contracts
  • • Paint colors and finishes
  • • Material specifications
  • • Emergency contact numbers

Guy Carrington Warranty Support

For homes built or renovated by Guy Carrington Construction, we provide comprehensive warranty support and maintenance guidance.

1-Year Warranty

Workmanship and materials

2-Year Systems

Plumbing, electrical, HVAC

10-Year Structural

Foundation and framing

Need Professional Maintenance?

Our maintenance team can help keep your property in perfect condition year-round.

Schedule Maintenance Service