Best Seasonal Checklist for House Sitters

As a house sitter it is good to prepare for housesits in all seasons. Use our seasonal checklist for house sitters to help you adopt particular safety measures and keep the property and pets safe where you are housesitting. Read on to learn more.

Best Seasonal Checklist for House Sitters

cleaning is on the checklist for house sitters — Cleaning is an essential element on the checklist for house sitters

Image credit: Towfiqu barbhuiya

Being a great house sitter ensures that more housesits will head your way in the future, and keeping a house in exceptional shape takes more than the occasional deep clean or lawn mow once in a while. As the seasons change, so do the needs of a home, and understanding what is required as part of seasonal upkeep helps you avoid problems that can become big headaches while winning the “house sitter of the year” award in the owner’s eyes.

The home improvement market is expected to steadily grow in the next years, going over $600 billion in 2027. A good seasonal maintenance is key to keeping those costs down, using the seasonal checklist for house sitters helps.

Keeping pipes from freezing in winter or ensuring gutters don’t overflow with autumn leaves makes your stay more comfortable and ensures you hand back a home that’s as good as (or better than) you found it. Here are some maintenance considerations for every season.

Summer Checklist for House Sitters

Summer’s rising temperatures, humidity, and relentless sunshine lead to a number of maintenance requirements, such as:

Servicing Cooling Systems
- Clean or replace air filters
- Check for leaks and ensure the drainage system is clear. Make
- Consider scheduling a professional HVAC tune-up to avoid any mid-summer breakdowns
Inspecting Plumbing
- Look for cracks or leaks in outdoor pipes and faucets caused by sun exposure
- Check for hidden leaks under sinks and around valves indoors
Tidying Air Vents and Filters
- Clear out dust, debris, and potential pests from vents
- Consider using a professional for a deep clean if necessary
Maintaining Outdoor Spaces
- Water and trim plants regularly
- Clean outdoor furniture and protect it from fading with covers or placing in a safe storage space
Inspecting Safety Devices
- Check smoke detectors and fire extinguishers to ensure they’re in working order

Autumn Checklist for House Sitters

As the leaves turn golden and the air grows crisp, it’s time to prep a home for the colder months ahead. Make note of these recommended actions on the checklist for house sitters, to help protect the home against changing and inclement weather:

Clearing Rain Gutters
- Remove leaves and debris to prevent clogs and avoid water damage
- Clean gutters weekly or bi-weekly during peak leaf-fall season
Deep Cleaning Garbage Disposal
- Flush with hot water, baking soda, and vinegar to remove buildup and odours
- Rinse with boiling water to ensure smooth operation
Inspecting Gas Appliances
- Check stovetops for blockages and clean thoroughly
- Arrange a professional service to inspect gas pipes for leaks or damage
Prepping the Fireplace and Chimney
- Clean the fireplace thoroughly
- If the chimney isn’t capped, have it inspected for bird nests or debris
Raking Fallen Leaves
- Clear leaves weekly to keep the yard tidy and prevent mold growth
- Use a rake or leaf blower for efficiency
Servicing Heating Systems
- Schedule a tune-up for the water heater and furnace to ensure they’re ready for winter

Winter Checklist for House Sitters

Winter is the time to ensure the home you’re looking after stays warm and safe by giving a little time to these very important maintenance tasks:

Inspecting and Insulating Water Pipes
- Protect exposed pipes with insulation to prevent freezing and bursting
- If you’re away, let a tap drip slightly to keep water flowing
Checking Ceilings and Walls for Dampness
- Look for water stains or wet patches caused by leaks or melting snow
- Address issues immediately to prevent structural damage
Cleaning Gutters and Downspouts
- Remove leaves, snow, and ice dams to prevent water damage
- Use calcium chloride for stubborn ice buildup
Improving Ventilation
- Open windows briefly or use fans to circulate fresh air, especially in basements and attics
Performing a Pest Inspection
- Check common entry points like vents, garages, and pantries for pests seeking warmth
Testing Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
- Replace batteries and confirm detectors are fully functional, especially when using heating systems
Adjusting Refrigerator Settings
- Prevent overcooling or frosting by fine-tuning the temperature or scheduling a service if needed
Keeping the Yard Tidy
- Regularly rake leaves, clear pathways, and shovel snow to maintain safety and keep the garden in top shape

Spring Checklist for House Sitters

Spring is the perfect time to combine deep cleaning with these essential home maintenance tasks:

Touching Up Paintwork
- Inspect walls, doors, and furniture for chipped paint
- A quick touch-up can prevent further peeling and keep the home looking fresh
Draining and Cleaning the Water Heater
- Flush out sediment and debris that accumulated over winter to extend the heater’s lifespan
Inspecting Basements and Attics
- Check for signs of mould, dampness, or pests – pay attention to corners, ceilings, and hidden areas
Servicing Dehumidifiers
- Clean and replace air filters to improve efficiency and reduce allergens as spring pollen emerges
Cleaning and Service Air Conditioners
- Dust filters and vents to prepare the system for warmer days and reduce airborne irritants
Deep Cleaning Appliances
- Garbage disposals, dishwashers, and other frequently used appliances need attention (Use vinegar and baking soda for natural, effective cleaning)
Maintaining the Garden
- Trim hedges, remove weeds, fertilize plants, and refresh the yard by mowing the lawn and cleaning up debris

Find your next housesit with HouseSit Match

Housesitters don’t spend a dime on accommodation during their assignment, making for a very affordable travel option, but as we don’t limit the number of applications for each house sit, homeowners have a lot of choices. Your glowing reviews will help you find more housesits and extra touches, like the maintenance tips above, which will help you get to the top of the list. Join the HouseSit Match community of housesitters and find your next housesit, and the one after that, and the one after that, with ease!