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5 minute read Published on Aug 23, 2026 by BrokerLink Communications
A lot of people end up doing their home maintenance just before the summer. That’s usually when problems start to stand out more, now that the snow has been replaced by warm weather.
But you don’t have to stress yourself out by trying to deal with everything all at once. It’s usually enough to just focus on the few things that can cause a lot of damage if they’re ignored. Then you can get to the other things when you have more time.
If you’re short on time, it can help to start with the things that are most likely to cause damage, like water problems or safety issues, if they’re ignored. Here’s your quick summer home maintenance checklist:
Checking the roof for signs of damage
Cleaning out the gutters and downspouts
Cleaning the air conditioner and changing the filter
Testing the sump pump and backwater valve
Checking the grading around the foundation
Checking weather-stripping around doors and windows
Trimming tree branches that hang over the roof or touch the siding
Checking decks, steps and railings for loose boards
Clearing lint and debris from the dryer vent and exterior exhaust vents
Checking driveways and paths for cracks or trip hazards
Checking for pest entry points like damaged screens or gaps under fences
Walk around the outside of your home and look up. See if you can spot any loose or damaged shingles, or if any are missing. If you notice any areas that sag or dip, that could point to an issue underneath. Worn or curling shingles could mean the attic is holding too much heat or moisture, which could mean there’s mould.
Next, you’ll want to clean gutters. Leaves and debris can build up over time and block water flow, pushing water toward the roofline and foundation. This can lead to water getting inside and ice dam issues in the winter. You’ll want to check that the:
Gutters are firmly attached and not pulling away from the roofline
Downspouts are clear and direct water away from the foundation
If you do notice any signs of damage, you may want to call a licensed roofer before you try to repair it. Not only can working on a roof without the right training be very dangerous, but you could also cause more damage than there was originally.
Water is still one of the most common causes of damage in a home, especially after heavy summer rain, which is something the Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) and the Government of Canada have been pointing out for years. Here's what you should know:
Water should drain away from the house, not collect beside it. After a storm, take note of any areas that stay wet or muddy longer than the rest of the yard. While you’re at it, take a look at any outdoor hoses and faucets and check for leaks or cracking.
Pour water into the pit and make sure it turns on and drains properly. If there is a backup pump or battery, check if that’s working properly as well. These can be the difference between a wet basement and a flooded one during a big downpour.
Damp smells, staining or moisture along the walls are often early signs of a problem. These are usually easier to deal with when they are caught early, before the damage spreads.
Air conditioners (AC) usually get the most use in the summer, so this is when problems are more likely to show up. Make sure to do the following:
When the filter gets dirty, airflow tends to drop and your central air or window air conditioner(s) have to work harder to cool the house. You may need to clean or replace it every one to three months.
Grass, leaves and debris can build up around the AC unit and restrict airflow. You can gently hose down the coil exterior to clean it — don’t power wash it. If you also clear some space around the unit, it can make a noticeable difference.
Inside the house, make sure vents aren’t blocked by any furniture or rugs. Dust off your ceiling fans and switch them to reverse. Not only does this help circulate air, but it can also take some pressure off the air conditioner.
And if the system sounds unusual or seems to be struggling to blow cool air, you may want to call in a licensed HVAC professional to check it out.
For the deck, walk across it and the steps slowly, and try to notice how they feel under your feet. You want to look for any loose boards, soft spots or wobbly railings. Nails or screws that have worked their way up can also injure someone, so you’ll want to fix those, too. As for walkways and driveways, just like how you see more cracks and potholes in the road in the spring, freeze-thaw cycles can leave uneven surfaces or cracks behind in concrete and stone that could cause someone to trip and fall.
Branches, shrubs and piles of debris can offer pests a cooler place to live or hide. Cleaning up wood or leaf piles and trimming shrubs, while also removing any standing water, can help prevent that. Applying outdoor bug spray around the outside of your home can also help keep pests from getting inside. If you notice any droppings or chewed materials, they’ve already found their way inside your home, so you’ll also want to check for things like:
Torn window screens
Gaps around window and door frames
Broken or uncovered vents
Small cracks in the foundation
Contact a licensed pest control professional if you think you have an infestation.
Lint and dirt can build up in vents and filters over time and restrict airflow, increasing wear on appliances and raising the risk of a fire. So make sure the dryer vent and kitchen exhaust filters are clear, and their exterior flaps open properly.
This is also a good time to test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors and replace the batteries if needed.
Regular home maintenance can help reduce risk, but it can’t prevent everything. Insurance is there for when things go wrong. Our BrokerLink insurance advisors can help you review your home insurance before storm season picks up. We’ll walk through your coverage with you and help you decide what makes sense for your home, whether it’s a house, cottage or seasonal property. Reach out today to get started!
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