Logo
August 2, 2023

Home Maintenance Checklist for August

Dog in construction gear and maintenance tools

Following an annual maintenance routine helps you to avoid costly repairs and keep your home a happy, healthy, and safe place to be.

Home maintenance August checklist

Homeownership comes with a significant responsibility that some people don’t understand when they decide to become homeowners. Home Maintenance is an ongoing, vital part of homeownership. As reported by the National Association of REALTORS®, nearly one in five people said they regretted buying a house because of the chore of maintaining it.[1]


While tidying up messes and washing dishes are a daily chore, there are much larger, important tasks to perform annually. Home maintenance includes surveying and diagnosing what needs attention, and then repairing the problem or hiring a professional who can do it for you.


The consequences of forgoing home maintenance can be devastating. Homeowners reported consequences like water damage, surface damage, mold, structural damage, freeze damage, pest infestation, and fire hazards, not to mention the consequence reported by nearly half of respondents: the additional cost to fix the problem.


The Reward for Home Maintenance

In addition to well-documented cost savings (as small problems are much easier to repair than large ones), you’ll minimize safety hazards and health risks, increase (or at least maintain) your home’s value, and keep your home looking great!


Setting a Month-Based Schedule

Because of the enormity of the task, the only way to truly stay on top of home maintenance is a month-based schedule for what to accomplish inside and outside the home.

home maintenance August checklist infographic 2

August Home Maintenance Responsibilities

As days grow shorter and autumn approaches, this is the time to begin preparing your home for the changing weather, both inside and out.


What to Look for in August:

  • Signs of Water Damage, inside and outside the home
  • Damage to the Foundation, like large cracks in concrete
  • Clogged Drains and Broken, Disconnected, or Clogged Rain Gutters
  • Leaky faucets
  • High or low water pressure (Why Should You Check the Water Pressure in Your Home?)
  • Potential future painting projects


Hold off on performing any large-scale painting projects, especially if you plan to do them yourself. Paint supplies go on sale this month, usually because the high humidity is not ideal for painting. Stock up on supplies now and wait for cooler, drier weather in the fall.

home maintenance August checklist 3

Call a Professional:

  • If you see significant water damage or leakage, especially if leaks are near electrical wiring
  • To inspect your water heater
  • To schedule a roof inspection for September
home maintenance August checklist 4

What to do Inside the Home:

  • Deep clean the carpets.
  • Empty and clean the refrigerator.
  • Tighten or replace faucet washers.
  • Clean the washer and dryer.


When it comes to the carpets, you’re probably vacuuming regularly, but nothing beats a deep clean. Machines that are made to shampoo carpets can be rented at most home improvement stores for relatively inexpensive, and they are well worth the rental price. Since it’s also peak pet shedding season, you may decide to wait until your furry friend stops shedding as much, but don’t wait too long.

home maintenance August checklist 5

What to do Outside the Home:

Sweep out the shed and/or garage while lawn furniture, sporting equipment and toys are still outside.


Organize the outdoor storage areas and donate or sell unused items.


Weed and edge the garden beds.

home maintenance August checklist 6

Final Thought for Homeowners

Keep a record of all maintenance checks and repairs, on a calendar or in a notebook that you can easily reference as needed. When home maintenance tasks are weighing on you, you can feel inspired by the growing record of homeownership wins you’ve had. The record is more than just a point of pride, though. As a ledger, it helps you remember what you’ve updated, repaired and replaced for future reference. If you decide to sell your home, this ledger (especially with receipts!) can help to boost the home’s value.

You may be interested in:

A magnifying glass , pen , and a model house are on a wooden table representing a chart.
March 28, 2025
The Market Outlook from the REALTORS® Confidence Index for sellers increased compared to last month.
A homeowners association document is sitting on a wooden table next to a pen and a book.
March 28, 2025
In many housing markets, homeowners associations (HOAs) and other community associations can be a part of the homebuying (and owning) experience. Here’s what prospective buyers should know:
A woman is kneeling down in front of a house holding a sign that says home for sale.
March 28, 2025
Once you decide to sell your home, your agent will work with you to determine the best strategy to reach potential buyers and attract strong offers. Here are some considerations when marketing your home:
A wooden house with the words property tax written on it
March 28, 2025
Wherever you buy a home in the United States, property taxes are a reality of homeownership. An agent who is a REALTOR® can help connect you with a tax expert in your area, but here are the basics:
A man is holding a sold sign in front of a house.
March 28, 2025
When your home is on the market, you may receive offers from multiple interested buyers. Offers can vary greatly, and you will need to determine which one is best for you. Here's what sellers should know:
A cardboard box with the words moving day written on it
April 1, 2024
As spring approaches, many homeowners gearing up to sell their homes face the daunting task of moving. However, with some innovative strategies and the right supplies, you can make the process smoother and more efficient. Here are five tips tailored specifically for home sellers embarking on a spring move:
A magnifying glass is sitting on top of a table next to two small houses.
April 1, 2024
As spring approaches and the real estate market begins to bloom, homeowners gearing up to sell their homes are undoubtedly eager to secure the best offer possible. The key to achieving this lies in understanding how real estate agents value properties and determine listing prices. Here's a glimpse into the process:
A family stands in front of a house for sale sign
April 1, 2024
Before making the decision to buy a home, it’s important to plan for all the costs you’ll be responsible for. While you’re saving for the down payment for your new home, don’t forget you’ll need to prepare for closing costs too.
a boy is sitting on a man 's shoulders looking at a house.
March 19, 2024
As the spring market approaches, prospective home sellers are gearing up to showcase their properties in the best possible light. One of the most crucial aspects of attracting potential buyers is curb appeal – the first impression your home makes from the street. Here's your comprehensive guide to preparing your home for the spring market and maximizing its curb appeal:
Show More
Share by: