Your Home, Maintained
Everything you need to protect your investment — seasonal checklists, inspection guides, warranty info, and maintenance cost estimates. Built for Northern Virginia homeowners.
Seasonal Maintenance
Track your home maintenance by season. Check off tasks as you complete them — your progress is saved automatically.
What to Look For
Know the warning signs for every major system in your home. Each guide includes lifespan estimates, replacement costs, and expert tips.
Warranty Reference
Typical warranty coverage for major home components. Keep your documentation organized to protect your investment.
| Component | Typical Warranty | Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Roof (shingles) | 25–50 years manufacturer | Keep installation receipt and warranty card. Most warranties are voided by improper ventilation. |
| HVAC System | 5–10 years parts, 1–2 years labor | Register within 60 days of installation for full warranty. Annual maintenance may be required to keep warranty valid. |
| Water Heater | 6–12 years | Longer warranty = thicker anode rod = longer life. Check anode rod every 2–3 years. |
| Appliances | 1–2 years manufacturer | Extended warranties rarely pay off except on refrigerators. Keep receipts digitally. |
| Windows | 10–20 years (glass seal) | Foggy windows = failed seal. Many manufacturers cover seal failure for 10–20 years. |
| Siding (Vinyl) | Lifetime (prorated) | "Lifetime" means original owner only. Check if warranty transfers on sale. |
| Garage Door Opener | 3–5 years | Chains last longer than belts but are noisier. Replace opener every 10–15 years. |
| Home Warranty Plan | 1 year (renewable) | Covers unexpected breakdowns of major systems. Typical cost: $400–600/year with $75–125 service call fee. |
Maintenance Cost Estimates
Budget for regular home maintenance. These estimates reflect typical costs in Northern Virginia as of 2026.
Annual Maintenance Total
Rule of thumb: 1–3% of home value per year
HVAC Tune-Up (2x/year)
Spring AC + Fall heating inspection
Lawn Care (annual)
DIY vs. full-service. Includes mowing, fertilizing, aeration
Pest Control (annual)
Quarterly treatments. Termite bond: $200–400/year
Gutter Cleaning (2x/year)
More if you have 3+ stories or many trees
Chimney Inspection
Required annually if you burn wood. Cleaning: $150–350
Septic Pumping (every 3–5 years)
Not applicable if on municipal sewer
The 1% Rule
Budget at least 1% of your home's value per year for maintenance. For a $600,000 NoVA home, that's $6,000/year or $500/month. Older homes (20+ years) should budget 2–3%.
Emergency Quick Reference
Gas Leak
Evacuate immediately. Don't flip switches. Call 911 then gas company from outside.
Water Main Break
Find main shutoff valve (usually near front of house). Turn clockwise to close. Call plumber.
Power Outage
Check breaker panel first. If neighborhood-wide, report to Dominion Energy: 1-866-366-4357.
Furnace Failure (Winter)
Check thermostat batteries, filter, and breaker. Open faucets to drip. Call HVAC company.
Roof Leak
Place buckets, move valuables. Cover from outside with tarp if safe. Call roofer for emergency service.
Sewer Backup
Stop using water. Don't flush. Call plumber immediately. May need sewer line camera inspection.
Need Help With Your Home?
Whether you're maintaining, buying, or selling — we're here to help. Our team knows Northern Virginia inside and out.