Most of the country plans maintenance around freezing winters. Here the calendar is set by fall winds, winter rain and summer heat.
Late summer and fall (August to November)
Fire season and Santa Ana winds.
- Clear dry vegetation and maintain defensible space. See wildfire home hardening.
- Clean gutters and roof valleys of leaves before the first rain.
- Check that vents have intact metal mesh.
- Service the furnace before the first cold nights.
- Test the garage door opener’s battery backup.
Winter (December to March)
Rainy season, when roof and drainage problems show up.
- Walk the property during a rain to see where water goes.
- Look in the attic after the first storm for new stains.
- Keep area drains and downspouts clear.
- Check slopes and retaining walls for erosion.
Spring (April to June)
Repair season.
- Fix anything the rain revealed.
- Touch up exterior paint and caulking.
- Treat wood decks and fences.
- Service the air conditioner and clean the condenser coil.
- Inspect for termite swarms, often seen in spring and late summer.
Summer (June to August)
Heat and water use.
- Replace HVAC filters more often.
- Adjust irrigation to avoid overwatering near the foundation.
- Check pool barriers, gates and alarms.
- Look at attic ventilation if upstairs rooms are hard to cool.
Every month
Test smoke and CO alarms, check under sinks, and run water in unused bathrooms.