New Home Maintenance Your First Year

Normal Settlement

All new homes settle. Expect hairline cracks in drywall (especially at corners of doors and windows), minor gaps where trim meets walls, and some sticking doors during seasonal humidity changes. These are normal and are typically addressed in your builder's warranty walk at 11 months. Log them as they appear rather than calling your builder for each one.

Monthly Tasks

Some maintenance tasks need attention every month.

• Check and replace HVAC filters (every 1–3 months depending on filter type)
• Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
• Run water in unused bathrooms to prevent P-trap dry-out
• Inspect for evidence of pests, especially during fall move-in season
• Check for water stains on ceilings after significant rain

Spring Tasks

After Virginia's cold season ends, spring is the right time to inspect winter's effects.

• Walk the exterior — check siding, caulk, and trim for winter damage
• Inspect the roof from the ground with binoculars — check for missing or lifted shingles
• Clean gutters and downspouts
• Check grading around the foundation — soil settles; regrade to direct water away
• Inspect window and door caulking — recaulk any gaps
• Have HVAC serviced before cooling season
• Inspect deck or screen porch for any fastener movement or board gaps

Fall Tasks

Fall preparation protects your home through Virginia winters.

• Clean gutters after leaf fall
• Have chimney swept and inspected before first fire
• Drain and winterize any exterior hose connections
• Locate your main water shutoff and ensure you know how to use it
• Have HVAC serviced before heating season
• Check attic insulation and ventilation
• Caulk any gaps around windows, doors, or penetrations

The 11-Month Builder Walk

Most new home warranties include a walk at approximately 11 months — before the one-year warranty period expires. Use the months leading up to this walk to document anything you want addressed: hairline cracks, sticking doors, minor trim gaps, drainage observations. This is your formal opportunity to have warranty items corrected at no cost.