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Just like we need regular checkups at the doctor’s office, our home also benefits from seasonal checkups. This ensures that everything is running smoothly and helps prevent unexpected breakdowns, costs, or even safety risks. It also helps you keep on top of necessary upgrades, repairs, cleaning, and occasional tasks like replacing filters.
With milder weather, early spring is an opportune time of the year to schedule home maintenance checks for some of the most important aspects of your property. Andriy Boyko, a professional handyman, general contractor, and mason at AO Handy in New Berlin, Wisconsin, emphasizes the importance of springtime inspections. “After winter has done its worst, spring is the perfect time to take stock of your home’s condition…and catch small issues before they become big headaches,” he says. “Whether it’s making sure your AC won’t fail on the hottest day or spotting a missing shingle before a summer thunderstorm hits, the time and money you invest now will pay off in comfort, safety, and long-term savings.”
Here you’ll learn why you should check your lawn and garden, HVAC system, and roof during the spring season, what’s involved with these critical inspections, and who you should hire to help.
1. Lawn and Garden
Spring is an ideal time for you or a professional lawn care company to check on your garden and landscaping before the summer heat waves and either droughts or storms arrive, depending on where you live. With the last freeze in the rearview mirror, evaluate what outdoor landscaping projects you are ready to start, such as planting new shrubs and flowers, seeding new grass, or building raised garden beds. Prepare for the coming season by trimming trees and shrubs, taking actions to control mosquitos and other pests, and inspecting lawn care tools and equipment.
It’s also helpful to bring in a professional to conduct a thorough lawn and garden checkup. TruGreen’s lawn care plans, for example, involve a lawn assessment to ensure the right services are provided for a healthy lawn. This includes:
- Testing the soil to determine whether amendments are needed.
- Identifying grass type and the presence of weeds or pests.
- Analyzing sun exposure and local climate.
- Recommendations for mowing, aerating, watering, and other regular maintenance tasks.
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2. HVAC System
Every spring, Jordan Fleming, seasoned HVAC and plumbing professional at That HVAC Guy in Wyndmoor, Pennsylvania, reminds homeowners that their HVAC system hasn’t just been sitting quietly—it’s been collecting dust, dealing with moisture, and in some cases, even housing small critters. “When temperatures rise and the AC kicks on for the first time, those hidden issues can suddenly turn into no-cool calls, high energy bills, or worse—total system failure,” he says. “A spring checkup is your chance to catch problems early, clean things up, and make sure your system is actually ready for the hotter months ahead.”
Fleming and Boyko agree on the best approach to a spring HVAC inspection should include the following:
- Change air filters (ideally every 1 to 3 months).
- Clean vents and ductwork.
- Inspect refrigerant levels.
- Check the thermostat for accuracy.
- Test the cooling function before you actually need it.
- Clean the outdoor AC condenser unit; remove leaves, debris, and dirt that may have accumulated.
- Inspect wiring, capacitors, and other electrical components.
- Flush the drain line.
“This is a hands-on tune-up to get your system operating cleanly, efficiently, and safely before the heat kicks in, cutting down on wasted energy and unnecessary strain on the grid,” says Fleming. These checkups should always be done by a licensed HVAC contractor who works in the field. A homeowner or handyman can usually change filters per the unit’s instructions. A handyman also can clean HVAC vents as part of broader home maintenance, adds Boyko. Expect to pay $250 to $400 for an HVAC inspection.
3. Roofing
Spring is also a great time to check on your roof and catch problems early. “Winter can be brutal on your roof, with snow, ice, and wind often causing damage that isn’t visible from the ground,” says Boyko. If ignored, minor roof issues can lead to leaks, water damage, mold, and expensive structural problems.
A thorough roof checkup involves the following steps:
- Visually inspect shingles or tiles to look for curling, cracking, or missing pieces.
- Check flashing and seals around vents, chimneys, and skylights.
- Look inside the attic for signs of leaks or water stains.
- Check for animal nesting or insect activity.
- Inspect gutters to clear debris and ensure downspouts are draining properly.
It’s important to hire a licensed roofing contractor and/or gutter specialist for this spring checkup, which typically costs in the range of $120 to $321. It is not a good idea to try and do a DIY roof inspection, as it can be dangerous and even illegal in your area. A trained professional will have the right equipment and know exactly what to look for to ensure your roof is in good shape for the coming months.
Bonus: Trees and Shrubs
Have you inspected your trees lately? Though it’s not a requirement every year, it’s a good idea to check the trees and shrubs on your property for pests, disease, and other problems every few years. It’s an important measure in preventing potential damage caused by dying trees falling on nearby structures.
TruGreen’s tree and shrub care plan entails a certified specialist coming out to your property to assess trees and shrubs to make sure foliage and bark are protected against insects and disease. Problem areas will be identified based on the type and condition of your trees and shrubs. The visit will result in a tailored treatment plan with options like protective horticultural oil treatments and nutrients for root fertilization.
