Maintenance Calendar (Home Systems)
Two views of the same data. Use whichever fits: View 1 if you’re setting up calendar reminders, View 2 if you’re standing in October wondering what needs to happen before winter.
Every entry links to the component note, which carries the full procedure, cost, and DIY-vs-pro line. This file is navigation, not instructions.
View 1 — By Cadence
Monthly
Electrical & safety
- afci (Home Systems) — press TEST on every AFCI breaker; note date on panel door
- gfci-outlets (Home Systems) — press TEST on every GFCI outlet; confirm RESET restores
- wiring-circuits (Home Systems) — see gfci-outlets (Home Systems), afci (Home Systems), smoke-co-detectors (Home Systems) for the specific monthly test procedures for each device type
- electrical-panel (Home Systems) — walk-by sensory check: smell, sound, touch, look
- ev-charger (Home Systems) — cable and connector visual check; check status indicator
- smoke-co-detectors (Home Systems) — press and hold 5 sec; verify interconnect chain
- fire-extinguishers (Home Systems) — gauge in green zone, pin intact, accessible
- alarm-system (Home Systems) — arm/trigger/disarm test; confirm monitoring station received signal; check panel for fault indicators
- fire-sprinkler (Home Systems) — visual check of all heads: corrosion, drips, damage, clearance, hangings
- solar-pv (Home Systems) — check inverter app: generation vs expected, any fault codes
Heating, cooling, ventilation
- hvac-filters (Home Systems) — pull and visual check; replace if grey or opaque (1-inch filters: replace every 1–3 months)
- heating-system (Home Systems) — check air filter; 5-minute visual/smell/sound check at furnace or heat pump
- cooling-ac (Home Systems) — visual check: outdoor unit clear of debris and vegetation, 60 cm clearance on all sides
- ventilation (Home Systems) — run bathroom fans; tissue-paper airflow check
- humidifier-dehumidifier (Home Systems) — read hygrometer; confirm 40–50% RH; clean portable humidifier tank every 3–7 days during use; clean portable dehumidifier filter every 2 weeks during use
- ceiling-fans (Home Systems) — dust blades (every 1–3 months; more often in kitchen or dusty space)
Gas & fireplace
- fireplace-by-fuel (Home Systems) — press test button on CO detector nearest the fireplace (wood or gas)
- gas-appliance-venting (Home Systems) — test CO detectors
- gas-lines (Home Systems) — no routine task; act immediately on any gas smell
Plumbing
- drain-system (Home Systems) — hot water + enzyme treatment down kitchen drain
- garbage-disposal (Home Systems) — baking soda + vinegar cleaning flush
- toilet (Home Systems) — no monthly task (annual); watch for base rocking or moisture
- floors (Home Systems) — sweep or vacuum; immediate spot-dry of any spills; check expansion gaps, soft spots, squeaks near fixtures
Garage & home security
- garage-door (Home Systems) — auto-reverse test (2×4) + photo-eye test (broom handle)
- garage-opener (Home Systems) — auto-reverse board test + photo-eye lens wipe and LED check
Appliances
- dishwasher (Home Systems) — clean filter; run empty cycle with dishwasher cleaner or white vinegar
- microwave (Home Systems) — wash OTR grease filter; wipe interior walls and waveguide cover
- oven-stove (Home Systems) — clean stovetop and burners; visual check for combustibles
- range-hood (Home Systems) — clean metal mesh filter; wipe interior canopy and fan housing
- freezer (Home Systems) — temperature check: confirm at or below −18°C
- washing-machine (Home Systems) — clean door seal + run drum-clean cycle + check/drain pump filter
Smart home & network
- doorbell (Home Systems) — check battery level in app; check for firmware updates
- locks-keys (Home Systems) — check smart lock battery via app; replace when low
Vehicles
- vehicle-oil-fluids (Home Systems) — oil dipstick check: level and colour on a rag
- vehicle-tires (Home Systems) — pressure check (cold tires, door-jamb placard value)
- vehicle-brakes (Home Systems) — listen for squeal or grinding on last few stops before parking
Quarterly (Every 3 Months)
- ventilation (Home Systems) — clean HRV/ERV filters: wash, air-dry, reinstall
- hvac-filters (Home Systems) — 4-inch media filters: visual check (replace every 6–12 months)
- dryer-vent-duct (Home Systems) — check exterior termination flap: opens freely, no screen, no nesting
- pest-prevention (Home Systems) — food storage and moisture check: drips, gutters, pet food, compost
- security-cameras (Home Systems) — check and apply firmware updates on all cameras and NVR
- wifi-router (Home Systems) — check firmware version; apply available updates
- central-vacuum (Home Systems) — clean or replace filter (every 3–6 months; this is the most critical task)
- wine-fridge (Home Systems) — condenser coil cleaning (every 3–6 months; more frequent in dusty environment)
- instant-hot-water (Home Systems) — inspect under-sink fittings for moisture (every 3–6 months)
- vehicle-scheduled-service (Home Systems) — see the note for km-based intervals; roughly every 5,000–10,000 km or 6 months
- vehicle-battery (Home Systems) — visual terminal check for corrosion (every 6 months; tracked here as mid-year prompt)
Semi-Annual (Twice a Year)
Spring and fall recurring tasks
- garage-door (Home Systems) — lubricate springs, hinges, rollers, bearing plates; inspect bottom seal; visual check of cables and rollers
- garage-opener (Home Systems) — lubricate drive (chain/rail), rollers, hinges; test door balance; replace remote batteries; clean photo-eye lenses
- thermostat (Home Systems) — seasonal mode switch and schedule check (April and October)
- ceiling-fans (Home Systems) — flip direction switch for the season
- heating-system (Home Systems) — clear outdoor heat pump unit of debris; check refrigerant lines
- smart-devices (Home Systems) — smart thermostat schedule and geofencing review
- ducts (Home Systems) — balance dampers for the upcoming season; mark positions
Safety
- smoke-co-detectors (Home Systems) — vacuum dust from alarm openings with soft-brush attachment
- evacuation-plan (Home Systems) — fire escape drill + smoke/CO detector test (spring DST change + fall)
Plumbing
- water-heater (Home Systems) — T&P valve test (every 6–12 months)
- shutoff-valves (Home Systems) — exercise every fixture angle stop and in-suite main: one full open-close cycle
- sump-pump-sewage-ejector (Home Systems) — pump test with bucket of water; battery backup test (every 3–6 months)
- supply-lines (Home Systems) — inspect all supply lines; exercise all shutoff valves
- garbage-disposal (Home Systems) — leak inspection at all three connection points; dry and check cabinet interior
- washing-machine (Home Systems) — inspect fill hoses and drain hose connection
- dishwasher (Home Systems) — inspect and wipe door gasket; paper-test the seal
Kitchen appliances
- refrigerator (Home Systems) — inspect supply line and connections; replace water filter; test door gasket; check drip pan
- freezer (Home Systems) — gasket/door seal inspection (dollar-bill test); petroleum jelly if seal stiff
- microwave (Home Systems) — replace OTR charcoal filter (ductless/recirculating units only)
- oven-stove (Home Systems) — clean oven interior (every 3–6 months)
- instant-hot-water (Home Systems) — replace filter cartridge (every 6–8 months)
- wine-fridge (Home Systems) — door gasket inspection + carbon filter check
Smart home
- smart-devices (Home Systems) — firmware and account audit; remove orphaned devices (every 6–12 months)
Vehicles
- vehicle-oil-fluids (Home Systems) — all fluid levels and under-hood visual; swap windshield washer fluid seasonally
- vehicle-tires (Home Systems) — seasonal swap: toonie tread depth test, sidewall inspection, DOT date check (twice yearly)
- vehicle-registration-insurance (Home Systems) — annual review at renewal; odometer photo if eligible
Annual
Exterior & roofline
- gutters-drainage (Home Systems) — inspect all downspout discharge points; confirm ≥1.8 m from foundation; pro inspection of hangers and seams (every 5 years)
- roof (Home Systems) — spring and fall ground-level inspections + attic check
- soffits-eaves-fascia (Home Systems) — spring and fall roofline inspections; check and clear soffit vents
- siding (Home Systems) — spring soft-wash and four-wall inspection; fall caulk touch-up
- exterior-paint (Home Systems) — spring visual inspection of all four elevations; photograph peeling, mildew, or caulk gaps
- deck-patio (Home Systems) — structural inspection: wobble, probe, post bases, ledger, guard
- fence (Home Systems) — post push-test inspection + gate hardware check + visual scan; lubricate hinges and latch
- grading (Home Systems) — fall perimeter grading inspection; spring window-well clearing
- driveway-walkway (Home Systems) — late summer: asphalt crack inspection and fill; visual inspection for drainage and trip hazards
HVAC & fireplace
- heating-system (Home Systems) — licensed gas fitter or HVAC tech service (September–October, before heating season)
- chimney-flue (Home Systems) — WETT sweep + Level 1 inspection (spring preferred for booking)
- damper-cap-spark-arrestor (Home Systems) — WETT-certified sweep + Level 1 inspection (August–September preferred)
- fireplace-by-fuel (Home Systems) — wood: WETT sweep + inspection; gas: licensed gas fitter service (late summer before heating season); electric: vent clean, cord check, glass wipe
- gas-appliance-venting (Home Systems) — licensed gas fitter inspection of every gas appliance; venting check and CO draft test
- gas-lines (Home Systems) — book gas appliance servicing; request visual inspection of all visible piping and flex connectors; outdoor spring walk of underground line runs
- condensate-drain (Home Systems) — confirm HVAC tech inspects and flushes condensate drain at annual tune-up
- hvac-filters (Home Systems) — at annual furnace tune-up: confirm sizing, MERV compatibility, and coil inspection
- ventilation (Home Systems) — book HVAC pro for HRV core cleaning, condensate drain, and airflow balancing
Plumbing
- water-heater (Home Systems) — flush + visual check of base, fittings, and venting (gas)
- drain-system (Home Systems) — flush every floor drain and rarely-used fixture; inspect under-sink traps
- dryer (Home Systems) — professional exhaust duct cleaning; gas dryer: licensed contractor services gas connection and burner
- dryer-vent-duct (Home Systems) — professional duct cleaning
- backflow-preventer (Home Systems) — BCWWA-certified test; confirm results filed with municipality
- irrigation (Home Systems) — backflow preventer annual test by certified tester
- toilet (Home Systems) — dye test (flapper) + visual inspection of base + check supply line and shutoff
Safety & security
- smoke-co-detectors (Home Systems) — replace backup batteries in hardwired units; check manufacture dates; flag any units hitting 10 years within next 12 months
- fire-extinguishers (Home Systems) — professional inspection and ASTTBC tag
- alarm-system (Home Systems) — replace panel backup battery; renew municipal alarm permit; review user codes
- evacuation-plan (Home Systems) — rotate emergency kit water and food; check medication expiry; update document copies in go-bag
- radon (Home Systems) — check ASD fan manometer (30 seconds); confirm fan is running
- locks-keys (Home Systems) — lubricate all exterior cylinders with graphite powder; test deadbolt throw; check strike plate
Grounds & landscaping
- trees (Home Systems) — fall windstorm walkover (crown, base, root plate, lean) + early spring walkover before leaf-out
- retaining-walls (Home Systems) — comprehensive spring inspection with dated photos
- pest-insects (Home Systems) — September pantry check: rotate dry goods, replace pantry-moth traps
- pest-prevention (Home Systems) — spring gate: entry-point audit + sealing; fall gate: re-audit, re-seal gaps, second perimeter treatment
- pest-rodents (Home Systems) — fall exterior exclusion audit; replace worn door sweeps and vent screens
Structural
- attic (Home Systems) — full attic inspection (fall, September–October)
- crawlspace (Home Systems) — enter and inspect: water, vapour barrier, wood condition, pest activity, vent screens (ideally spring)
- caulking-seals (Home Systems) — spring inspection: exterior perimeter + interior wet areas
- foundation (Home Systems) — spring visual inspection: interior and exterior perimeter; re-photograph all known cracks
- foundation-drainage-waterproofing (Home Systems) — September sump pump test; early November foundation perimeter walk
- insulation (Home Systems) — fall attic and crawlspace visual check: depth, moisture, pest signs
- windows (Home Systems) — fall: clear weep holes + inspect perimeter caulking + test weatherstripping; visual check after any major storm
- doors (Home Systems) — autumn inspection: weatherstripping compression, door sweep, sill and frame base; clean and lubricate patio door track
- interior-walls (Home Systems) — wall scan with oblique light; photograph and date any new crack or stain
- ceilings (Home Systems) — visual inspection of all ceilings in good light for rings, cracks, or bowing
- stairs-railings (Home Systems) — guard/handrail load test: push every post, every guard run, check baluster gaps
- trim-molding (Home Systems) — walk all baseboards and casing; re-caulk any gaps; touch up paint
Interior surfaces
- paint-finishes (Home Systems) — seasonal wipe-down of kitchen and bathroom walls; touch up chips and scuffs (also: high-traffic spaces every 2–3 years, main rooms 5–7 years)
- floors (Home Systems) — check grout integrity on tile; inspect under dishwasher and fridge for moisture; assess hardwood finish
Smart home & network
- wifi-router (Home Systems) — verify all smart devices are still on the guest/IoT network; review connected-devices list for unknowns
- av-system (Home Systems) — compressed air on vents, reseat all connections, verify surge protector indicator
- central-vacuum (Home Systems) — inspect inlet gaskets at each wall inlet
Appliances
- dishwasher (Home Systems) — under-cabinet inspection: paper-towel test at supply fittings, check cabinet floor for moisture
- refrigerator (Home Systems) — clean condenser coils (every 6–12 months; monthly if you have pets)
- freezer (Home Systems) — condenser coil cleaning
- trash-compactor (Home Systems) — check drawer rails; inspect power cord; verify key-switch engagement
- wine-fridge (Home Systems) — ventilation clearance check; wipe down interior; temperature check
Records & finances
- records-documents (Home Systems) — review appliance warranties; update strata documents; confirm backup sync; cross-check insurance limits
- strata-bylaws-fees-governance (Home Systems) — read AGM package; review budget, CRF, deductible, bylaw changes
- strata-common-property-systems (Home Systems) — confirm personal policy loss-assessment limit still matches building deductible
- utilities-accounts (Home Systems) — utility and ISP rate review; pull bills, compare rates, renegotiate ISP if promotional pricing expired
- irrigation-backflow (Home Systems) — reactivate slowly in spring; inspect for freeze damage; schedule annual test
Vehicles
- vehicle-brakes (Home Systems) — ask shop to inspect pad thickness and rotor condition at tire rotation (every 10,000–15,000 km)
- vehicle-scheduled-service (Home Systems) — confirm with owner’s manual; cabin air filter, engine air filter, tire rotation and balance (roughly every 20,000–30,000 km or annually)
Every 2–5 Years
- gutters-drainage (Home Systems) — pro inspection of hangers, seams, and fascia board condition (every 5 years)
- grading (Home Systems) — professional drainage eye: confirm perimeter drain still flowing (every 5 years)
- generator-transfer-switch (Home Systems) — licensed electrician inspects all transfer switch connections and terminals (every 5 years)
- radon (Home Systems) — long-term retest with a kit, even if previously low (every 5 years; also after major renovation)
- chimney-flue (Home Systems) — Level 2 camera inspection to confirm liner integrity (every 5 years)
- propane (Home Systems) — replace hose and regulator assembly regardless of appearance (every 5–7 years)
- trees (Home Systems) — formal arborist assessment of mature trees (every 3–5 years)
- siding (Home Systems) — full caulk replacement at all penetrations (every 3–5 years)
- driveway-walkway (Home Systems) — sealcoat asphalt; reseal concrete; top up paver joint sand (every 2–3 years)
- exterior-paint (Home Systems) — power-wash all surfaces; treat mildew (every 1–2 years or when mildew appears)
- fence (Home Systems) — clean and re-stain/seal cedar or wood fence; check fasteners for rust (every 2–3 years)
- deck-patio (Home Systems) — PT wood: clean and reseal (every 1–2 years); cedar: clean and restain (every 2–3 years)
- hardscape (Home Systems) — asphalt reseal; polymeric sand top-up in paver joints; concrete reseal (every 3–5 years)
- pest-termites-wdo (Home Systems) — licensed pro WDO inspection for detached wood-frame homes (every 3–5 years)
- security-cameras (Home Systems) — annual coverage audit (angles, blind spots, night vision, neighbour privacy)
- crawlspace (Home Systems) — humidity monitoring with a hygrometer left in place for a week to catch seasonal peak (every 2–5 years if no permanent sensor)
- foundation-drainage-waterproofing (Home Systems) — CCTV camera inspection of perimeter drain via cleanout ports (every 3–7 years)
- water-heater (Home Systems) — anode rod inspection and replacement (every 1–3 years)
- washing-machine (Home Systems) — replace fill hoses: rubber EPDM — replace on sight regardless of age; braided stainless — every 5 years or if the mesh is damaged
- supply-lines (Home Systems) — replace any rubber washing machine hose immediately; replace any line 5–8 years old
- garage-opener (Home Systems) — check chain/belt tension and adjust; check all mounting hardware for loose bolts (every 1–2 years)
- av-system (Home Systems) — replace surge protector regardless of indicator status (every 3–5 years)
- solar-pv (Home Systems) — clean panels if in a moss-prone location: North Shore, Burnaby Mountain, areas with heavy tree cover (every 6–12 months)
- wifi-router (Home Systems) — at 5 years, assess whether router still receives firmware updates; plan replacement if not
- instant-hot-water (Home Systems) — vinegar flush/descale (every 1–2 years in Metro Vancouver)
- water-filtration (Home Systems) — replace sediment pre-filter every 3–6 months; carbon cartridges every 6–12 months; RO membrane every 2–3 years
- water-softener (Home Systems) — annual brine tank clean and resin check; resin test strip after 5–10 years
- floors (Home Systems) — carpet professional steam clean (every 12–18 months); tile regrout (every 10–15 years); natural stone reseal annually
- paint-finishes (Home Systems) — high-traffic spaces every 2–3 years; main rooms every 5–7 years; ceilings and trim every 7–10 years
- irrigation-backflow (Home Systems) — at 10–15 years, assess whether rebuild or full replacement makes more sense at next test interval
- vehicle-brakes (Home Systems) — brake fluid flush (every 2 years for DOT 3, every 2–3 years for DOT 4)
- vehicle-battery (Home Systems) — load test at shop starting at battery age 3 (every 2–3 years after that)
- vehicle-scheduled-service (Home Systems) — spark plugs, coolant flush, transmission fluid service (every 3–5 years or 48,000–90,000 km)
Lifecycle & Replacement Horizons
These are “plan ahead” markers, not maintenance tasks. Get quotes before you need them urgently.
10-year horizons
- gfci-outlets (Home Systems) — proactive replacement of GFCI outlets in bathroom, exterior, and laundry locations (7–10 years in humid environments)
- smoke-co-detectors (Home Systems) — replace the full unit at 10 years manufacture date; CO alarms at 7 years
- wiring-circuits (Home Systems) — replace smoke detectors at 10 years; CO alarms at 7–10 years per device rating
- water-heater (Home Systems) — at 10 years, flip from “monitor” to “plan proactive replacement”
- propane (Home Systems) — cylinder recertification or exchange at 10 years (legal requirement; check collar stamp)
- garage-door (Home Systems) — at 7–10 years: professional spring inspection; consider high-cycle spring upgrade
- garage-opener (Home Systems) — at 10–12 years: evaluate replacement; multiple repairs make it increasingly cost-effective
- dryer (Home Systems) — at 10 years: shift from “monitor” to “plan proactive replacement”; apply the 50% rule
- sump-pump-sewage-ejector (Home Systems) — at 8–10 years: replacement planning (replace before failure)
- dishwasher (Home Systems) — at 5–10 years: replace supply line proactively; replace now if rubber or unbraided polymer
- refrigerator (Home Systems) — at 5–7 years on a plastic supply line: replace with braided stainless
- freezer (Home Systems) — at 12 years: reassess condition; major repair at this age tilts toward replacement
- microwave (Home Systems) — at 8 years: budget for replacement; start comparing models now
- garbage-disposal (Home Systems) — at 8–10 years: plan proactive replacement
- trash-compactor (Home Systems) — at 8 years: compare repair cost vs replacement
- instant-hot-water (Home Systems) — at 7–8 years: evaluate tank replacement proactively (quiet flood risk in strata near 10 years)
- central-vacuum (Home Systems) — at 15–20 years: shift to “budget for power unit replacement”
- vehicle-scheduled-service (Home Systems) — timing belt + water pump + tensioners (every 100,000–150,000 km or 7–10 years; interference engines only — the biggest single maintenance spend)
- vehicle-battery (Home Systems) — at 4–5 years: plan proactive replacement
- vehicle-tires (Home Systems) — at 6 years from DOT manufacture date: replace regardless of tread
15–25-year horizons
- roof (Home Systems) — at 15 years (asphalt shingles): commission professional roofer inspection; at 20 years or on any hard-fail sign: begin replacement planning
- heating-system (Home Systems) — at 15 years (gas furnace): shift to “plan proactive replacement”; get quotes before failure; compare heat-pump rebate options
- electrical-panel (Home Systems) — at 40 years, or on any home purchase: schedule a panel inspection by a licensed electrician (not a home inspector)
- garage-door (Home Systems) — at 15–20 years: shift from “repair as needed” to “plan full replacement”
- fence (Home Systems) — at 15 years (pressure-treated) / 20 years (cedar): flip from “maintain” to “plan replacement”
- driveway-walkway (Home Systems) — at 15–20 years (asphalt) / 25+ years (concrete): get contractor assessment; plan proactive resurfacing before base failure
- solar-pv (Home Systems) — at year 10–15: professional inverter assessment; at year 20–25: full system review vs re-array
- siding (Home Systems) — at 30 years (any material): full professional building envelope assessment; plan re-cladding proactively
- exterior-paint (Home Systems) — wood siding: full repaint every 5–8 years; stucco every 7–10 years; fibre cement every 10–12 years
- foundation-drainage-waterproofing (Home Systems) — sump pump replacement every 7–10 years as lifecycle item regardless of test results
- toilet (Home Systems) — at 8–10 years (or at toilet replacement): proactive supply line replacement
- washing-machine (Home Systems) — leave door ajar after every load; when leaving 48h+, shut supply valves
- generator-transfer-switch (Home Systems) — at 20+ years: licensed electrician inspects transfer switch connections
- retaining-walls (Home Systems) — timber walls: plan proactive replacement at 12–15 years even if wall appears intact above grade
- soffits-eaves-fascia (Home Systems) — wood only: repaint or reseal every 4–7 years
View 2 — By Season (Metro Vancouver Climate)
Spring (March–May)
The wet-season-is-ending audit
- roof (Home Systems) — full ground-level inspection + attic check after winter rain season; clear moss debris from eave zone
- gutters-drainage (Home Systems) — spring clean (March–April): clears pine needles and winter debris; inspect all downspout discharge points
- soffits-eaves-fascia (Home Systems) — full biannual roofline inspection; check and clear soffit vents; look for winter frost or ice dam staining
- grading (Home Systems) — clear window-well bottoms of debris; check for settlement troughs from winter freeze-thaw
- exterior-paint (Home Systems) — visual inspection of all four elevations; photograph peeling, mildew, caulk gaps
- foundation (Home Systems) — full visual inspection after the wet season; re-photograph all known cracks
- crawlspace (Home Systems) — enter and inspect: water, vapour barrier, wood condition, pest activity, vent screens
- attic (Home Systems) — check accessible sections; look for frost staining or signs of ice dams
- caulking-seals (Home Systems) — exterior perimeter + interior wet-area inspection (April–May)
- windows (Home Systems) — clear weep holes; inspect perimeter caulking; check interior sills for staining
Irrigation start-up
- irrigation (Home Systems) — April/early May: spring startup; slow-open system, walk all zones, set controller to current restriction schedule
- irrigation-backflow (Home Systems) — reactivate slowly; inspect for freeze damage; book annual test
- hose-bibs-spigots (Home Systems) — re-open slowly; visual check for freeze damage; vacuum breaker check
- backflow-preventer (Home Systems) — visual check of all hose bib vacuum breakers; replace any cracked or dripping units
HVAC prep for cooling season
- cooling-ac (Home Systems) — April/May: rinse outdoor condenser coil; flush condensate drain; book professional tune-up
- condensate-drain (Home Systems) — April/May: flush line with vinegar; drop algae tablet in drain pan; test float safety switch
- chimney-flue (Home Systems) — WETT sweep + Level 1 inspection (spring preferred for booking availability)
Landscaping & exterior
- pest-insects (Home Systems) — April/May: exterior perimeter and eave inspection for ant trails and wasp nest starts; check wood-meets-foundation contacts for frass
- pest-prevention (Home Systems) — March/April spring gate: full entry-point audit + sealing; first exterior perimeter treatment
- pest-termites-wdo (Home Systems) — annual owner walk-through WDO inspection: crawl space, foundation perimeter, attic, under-sink
- trees (Home Systems) — early spring (March/April) walkover before leaf-out; water young trees twice weekly during dry spells starting June
- retaining-walls (Home Systems) — comprehensive spring inspection with dated photos
- lawn (Home Systems) — resume mowing when grass actively growing and soil firm (March/April); weekly cuts at 7–9 cm from April–June
- hardscape (Home Systems) — spring walkthrough: drainage slope check, lippage, joint condition, crack inventory
- driveway-walkway (Home Systems) — spring visual inspection for drainage and trip hazards
Records & finance
- water-heater (Home Systems) — annual flush + visual check of base, fittings, and venting
- shutoff-valves (Home Systems) — exercise every fixture angle stop and in-suite main
- supply-lines (Home Systems) — inspect all supply lines; replace any 5–8 years old
- records-documents (Home Systems) — post-tax season: review appliance warranties, update strata docs, confirm backup sync
- smoke-co-detectors (Home Systems) — spring: replace backup batteries; check manufacture dates; annual check
- evacuation-plan (Home Systems) — spring DST change: fire escape drill + smoke/CO test; rotate emergency kit
Summer (June–August)
Peak irrigation & watering restrictions
- irrigation (Home Systems) — May 1–October 15: stay current on Metro Vancouver restriction stage; monthly zone walk while running; check for broken heads, ponding, misting
- lawn (Home Systems) — July/August: mow every 7–10 days; raise height to 9–10 cm; grass slows during dry restriction period
Exterior vegetation and pest management
- pest-prevention (Home Systems) — July/August: vegetation check; prune branches back in contact with building; check for early wasp nests before they grow large
- pest-insects (Home Systems) — July/August: monitor wasp activity at entry points; call pro in-season if nest larger than early-spring size
Roofline: under heavy tree cover
- gutters-drainage (Home Systems) — July/August: add a third cleaning pass under heavy tree canopy (conifer needle load year-round)
- solar-pv (Home Systems) — if in a moss-prone location: panel cleaning
Heating prep: book before fall rush
- heating-system (Home Systems) — book the fall HVAC service appointment in summer; fall books fast
- chimney-flue (Home Systems) — August/September: WETT sweep + Level 1 inspection (before first fire season); book early
- damper-cap-spark-arrestor (Home Systems) — August/September: WETT sweep + Level 1 inspection; book early
- fireplace-by-fuel (Home Systems) — book late-summer service (wood: WETT; gas: licensed gas fitter) before heating season
Smart home
- smart-devices (Home Systems) — firmware and account audit; remove orphaned devices
Fall (September–November)
This is the highest-stakes maintenance block of the BC year. Do it all.
Roof and roofline
- roof (Home Systems) — September/October: ground-level inspection before rain season; clear debris from valleys and eaves; book roofer promptly if repairs needed before winter
- gutters-drainage (Home Systems) — late October/November: clean gutters after deciduous leaf drop, before winter rain ramps up; pro-clean if two-storey or heavy canopy
- soffits-eaves-fascia (Home Systems) — second roofline inspection; confirm no pest nesting at vents or soffit gaps over summer
Winterization: water systems
- hose-bibs-spigots (Home Systems) — late October: disconnect hose + winterize (standard bib: close isolation valve + open bib to drain)
- irrigation (Home Systems) — September: book the fall blowout appointment; complete by mid-October before first hard frost
- irrigation-backflow (Home Systems) — October: winterize: shut upstream valve, crack test cocks, set ball valves to 45°, insulate if exposed, arrange system blow-out with irrigation contractor
- backflow-preventer (Home Systems) — before winter: confirm irrigation PVB or RPZ is blown out and drained
- sump-pump-sewage-ejector (Home Systems) — September: pump test with bucket of water; battery backup test
Heating and combustion
- heating-system (Home Systems) — September/October: licensed gas fitter or HVAC tech service before heating season
- gas-appliance-venting (Home Systems) — August/September: book annual licensed gas fitter inspection of all gas appliances; confirm venting check and CO draft test
- gas-lines (Home Systems) — fall before heating season: book gas appliance servicing; request visual inspection of all visible piping and flex connectors
- attic (Home Systems) — September/October: full attic inspection
- insulation (Home Systems) — fall: attic and crawlspace visual check for depth, moisture, pest signs
Pest fall gate
- pest-prevention (Home Systems) — September/October: full entry-point re-audit; re-seal any gaps that opened over summer; move or elevate firewood; second perimeter treatment before rodent indoor migration
- pest-rodents (Home Systems) — September/October: exterior exclusion audit; replace worn door sweeps and vent screens
- pest-insects (Home Systems) — September: pantry check (rotate dry goods, replace pantry-moth traps); September/October: seal new cracks or soffit gaps before overwintering migration
Foundation perimeter
- grading (Home Systems) — full perimeter grading inspection (string-line check, siding gap, downspout discharge, window-well rims) before rainy season
- foundation-drainage-waterproofing (Home Systems) — early November (first atmospheric river): foundation perimeter walk; efflorescence check; window-well debris clearing
- pest-termites-wdo (Home Systems) — autumn: clean gutters, check grading, confirm no new wood-soil contact after landscaping
Exterior
- siding (Home Systems) — fall before rainy season: touch up any failed caulk found in spring; clear organic debris from siding and gutter drain areas
- doors (Home Systems) — autumn inspection: weatherstripping compression, door sweep, sill and frame base; clean and lubricate patio door track
- windows (Home Systems) — before the rainy season: clear weep holes, inspect perimeter caulking, test weatherstripping
- deck-patio (Home Systems) — structural inspection (annually)
- trim-molding (Home Systems) — fall before heating season: walk all baseboards and casing; re-caulk gaps; touch up paint
- driveway-walkway (Home Systems) — late summer/fall: asphalt crack inspection and fill
Vehicles: winter prep
- vehicle-tires (Home Systems) — by late September: schedule winter tire swap appointment (books up fast in Metro Vancouver)
- vehicle-registration-insurance (Home Systems) — at renewal: review coverage; photograph odometer if eligible
Safety drills
- evacuation-plan (Home Systems) — fall DST change: fire escape drill + smoke/CO test; check emergency kit
- thermostat (Home Systems) — October: seasonal mode switch; replace batteries if applicable
Generator
- generator-transfer-switch (Home Systems) — September/before outage season: portable generator test-run + fuel rotation; standby generator professional service
Records
- strata-bylaws-fees-governance (Home Systems) — before AGM: read AGM package; review budget, CRF, deductible, bylaw changes
- strata-common-property-systems (Home Systems) — before AGM: read depreciation report; review strata insurance certificate for water-damage deductible
Winter (December–February)
The quiet season — monitor, don’t ignore
- heating-system (Home Systems) — visual/smell/sound check at furnace or heat pump monthly; confirm filter was replaced in fall
- hvac-filters (Home Systems) — monthly pull and visual check; during wildfire smoke season (even off-season events) check every 2 weeks
- humidifier-dehumidifier (Home Systems) — read hygrometer monthly; confirm 40–50% RH; operate whole-home humidifier; clean portable humidifier tank every 3–7 days
- attic (Home Systems) — during cold snaps: if accessible and safe, check for frost on sheathing or ice dams at eaves
- crawlspace (Home Systems) — after every major rain event or atmospheric river: quick check for standing water
- foundation-drainage-waterproofing (Home Systems) — after heavy rain: foundation perimeter walk; window-well debris clearing
- radon (Home Systems) — October–April is the prime testing window; deploy long-term test kit if never tested or >5 years since last test
- windows (Home Systems) — visual check after any significant storm; look for new perimeter caulk cracks at interior sills
- fireplace-by-fuel (Home Systems) — each use (wood): visual check of firebox; confirm Metro Vancouver burn ban status; each fire: damper open before lighting; damper closed 12–24 hours after
- damper-cap-spark-arrestor (Home Systems) — before every fire: damper open check (2 minutes, every time)
Vehicles
- vehicle-tires (Home Systems) — monthly pressure check (pressure drops in cold air: ~1 PSI per 6°C temperature drop)
- vehicle-battery (Home Systems) — if car sits unused 4+ weeks: connect trickle charger or disconnect negative terminal
Anytime / Event-Driven
After a storm (wind or heavy rain)
- roof (Home Systems) — quick ground-level check for missing or lifted shingles
- gutters-drainage (Home Systems) — walk-around check for overflow staining and sections that shifted
- fence (Home Systems) — after >70 km/h gusts: quick inspection for panel shifts or posts that moved
- retaining-walls (Home Systems) — after significant rainfall: weep holes clear, no new cracking, no movement
- trees (Home Systems) — seasonal walkover after first fall windstorm (typically October/November)
- foundation (Home Systems) — after unusually wet winter or seismic event: spot check; don’t wait for annual cycle
- ceilings (Home Systems) — after every heavy rain event: visual check for new staining or blistering near exterior walls and skylights
After a gas event or earthquake
- gas-meter-shutoff (Home Systems) — after any earthquake: call FortisBC before using gas appliances; wait for FortisBC or licensed contractor to restore
- chimney-flue (Home Systems) — after any significant earthquake: Level 2 inspection (clay tile liners crack from seismic movement)
- evacuation-plan (Home Systems) — after any earthquake: inspect furniture straps and water heater strap; check kit
On move-in
- electrical-panel (Home Systems) — label every circuit
- afci (Home Systems) — inventory which circuits have AFCI breakers; note any bedroom or living-area circuits that do not
- gfci-outlets (Home Systems) — GFCI map and test
- outlets-lighting (Home Systems) — GFCI map + test; LED/dimmer compatibility check; locate and test every outlet
- smoke-co-detectors (Home Systems) — test all alarms; check manufacture dates
- alarm-system (Home Systems) — register alarm permit; confirm monitoring account is in your name; update all user codes; test every sensor
- locks-keys (Home Systems) — rekey all exterior cylinders; upgrade strike plate screws to 3-inch; document key copies issued
- gas-meter-shutoff (Home Systems) — locate the meter, photograph the valve, note the wrench location, brief all household members
- gas-lines (Home Systems) — install combination CO + natural gas detectors near appliance areas; locate gas meter shutoff; confirm CSST bonding status
- water-heater (Home Systems) — confirm age; if approaching 10 years, begin planning proactive replacement
- supply-lines (Home Systems) — know where your in-suite main shutoff is; replace any rubber washing machine hose immediately
- shutoff-valves (Home Systems) — locate and document the in-suite main immediately
- toilet (Home Systems) — dye test immediately; note age of supply line
- refrigerator (Home Systems) — locate water supply shutoff valve; confirm it works; check supply line material
- hose-bibs-spigots (Home Systems) — locate and confirm all hose bib isolation valves work
- garage-door (Home Systems) — confirm auto-reverse and photo-eye tests pass
- garage-opener (Home Systems) — change keypad code; shorten or shield emergency release cord; confirm rolling-code remotes
- strata-common-property-systems (Home Systems) — get strata plan, registered bylaws, Form B, and most recent depreciation report
- records-documents (Home Systems) — build the vault, photograph all appliance labels, file all seller documents and strata records
- radon (Home Systems) — deploy long-term test kit if never tested (ideally October–April; leave 3–12 months)
- crawlspace (Home Systems) — radon long-term test
- irrigation-backflow (Home Systems) — confirm existing backflow preventer assembly and its test date
After any renovation or trade work
- pest-rodents (Home Systems) — re-inspect and seal every penetration the trade opened before closing up
- pest-prevention (Home Systems) — re-inspect every penetration opened; re-seal before pests establish
- attic (Home Systems) — after any HVAC or plumbing work: confirm no new penetrations were left unsealed in the ceiling plane
- ventilation (Home Systems) — after any renovation near HVAC ducts: verify duct connections intact; exhaust terminations exit to outside, not attic
- alarm-system (Home Systems) — notify monitoring station before work that may disturb sensors; re-test all zones after work
- fire-sprinkler (Home Systems) — before any renovation or trades work near ceilings: notify strata manager; ensure trades understand head clearance rules
Smell of gas
- gas-lines (Home Systems) — leave immediately; call 1-800-663-9911 from outside
Water event (appliance leak, toilet overflow, pipe burst)
- ceilings (Home Systems) — after appliance overflow or plumbing event in a unit above: visual check within 24–48 hours
- floors (Home Systems) — 24-hour response: start drying, monitor 48–72 hours, check subfloor
- interior-walls (Home Systems) — inspect nearest wall surface within 24–48 hours; soft drywall or staining within 72 hours = moisture in the cavity
- trim-molding (Home Systems) — inspect baseboards in affected rooms within 24 hours
- strata-common-property-systems (Home Systems) — document everything; notify strata in writing within 24 hours; call insurance broker the same day
How to Use This
Set these as recurring reminders. Monthly items work well as a first-of-month 5-minute checklist. Annual items slot into two anchors: spring (April/May) and fall (September/October).
The fall block is the highest-stakes. Metro Vancouver’s wet season starts in earnest in November. The September/October window is when to: service the furnace, complete all winterization, clean gutters, seal pest entry points, and inspect the roof and attic. Miss that window and you’re reacting in November rain.
The spring block closes the loop. Post-wet-season inspection catches whatever winter opened up: foundation, roof, grading, gutters, and irrigation start-up.
For lifecycle items, the replacement horizons above are plan-ahead markers, not emergencies. The goal is to get quotes and pre-apply for rebates before a failure forces an emergency decision. Emergency replacements cost more and eliminate rebate eligibility (water heaters, heat pumps).
Vehicles live here too. The vehicle notes are component notes like everything else — the calendar above captures them by km-based interval and seasonal swap, which are the two practical anchors.
What This Is NOT
This calendar aggregates cadences extracted from component notes. It is not a substitute for those notes. Each entry above links to the note that carries the full procedure, cost estimate, DIY-vs-pro line, and BC-specific regulatory context.
When a task is listed here, the how lives in the component note. When in doubt, follow the note.