The 12-Month Rental Property Maintenance Calendar (Protect Your Cash Flow)

Why a maintenance calendar matters

Preventive maintenance costs far less than emergency repairs. A simple month-by-month routine increases NOI, keeps tenants longer, and helps you budget CapEx years ahead.

How to use this calendar

• Batch tasks by season.

• Assign each task to “DIY,” “Handyman,” or “Licensed Pro.”

• Track dates, receipts, and photos in a central system.

Pro tip: Use HomeZada to create recurring tasks, store invoices, and attach photos for every property. You’ll also get reminders and an exportable history when you sell or refinance.

Month-by-Month Plan

January – Safety & Heating

• Test/replace smoke & CO detector batteries; verify expiration dates on devices.

• Inspect furnace filters; replace MERV-rated filters as needed.

• Check crawl spaces and attics for condensation or pests.

• Record: filter size, detector model, last replacement date (HomeZada → “Assets” → “Equipment”).

February – Plumbing Prep

• Inspect under-sink traps for slow leaks.

• Test GFCI outlets.

• Flush 1–2 gallons from water heater to remove sediment (tank models).

• Tip: Create a “Leak Log” in HomeZada with photos and receipts.

March – Exterior & Roof

• Clean gutters/downspouts; confirm drainage slope away from foundation.

• Inspect shingles, flashing, and soft spots; schedule spot repairs.

• Power-wash mildew on siding, decks, and walkways.

April – Cooling & Landscaping

• Service HVAC (refrigerant check, coil cleaning).

• Trim vegetation 12–18″ from siding and AC condenser.

• Plant low-maintenance ground cover in high-erosion areas.

May – Moisture Defense

• Re-caulk wet areas (tub, shower, sinks).

• Seal gaps around windows/doors; check weatherstripping.

• Test sump pump and French drains after a hose test.

June – Safety & Pest

• Test/replace fire extinguishers (and confirm tenants know location).

• Schedule quarterly pest control in warm climates.

• HomeZada: set a Quarterly Pest recurring task and attach invoices.

July – Mid-Year Walkthrough

• Do a friendly “filter + battery drop-off” visit (great tenant touchpoint).

• Check for unauthorized pets/occupants (follow lease and local laws).

• Inspect attic temps & ventilation; add baffles if needed.

August – Water & Irrigation

• Inspect irrigation heads and timer; fix overspray onto the house.

• Check water pressure (goal: ~55–65 PSI) with a cheap gauge.

• Flush the water heater again in hard-water markets.

September – Envelope & Weather

• Repaint/spot-seal exterior wood; check fence posts.

• Test garage door auto-reverse safety.

• Order chimney sweep if using a fireplace.

October – Heating & Drafts

• Full furnace tune-up, replace filters, inspect flue/vent pipes.

• Add door sweeps and window film kits for drafty units.

• HomeZada: upload the HVAC service report to keep warranty proof.

November – Winterize

• Drain hose bibs or add freeze covers; insulate exposed pipes.

• Store outdoor furniture; service snow gear (where applicable).

• Check attic insulation depth (R-values per climate zone).

December – Annual Audit

• Export HomeZada task history for the year; tag anything that became CapEx.

• Update your 3-year CapEx plan (roof, HVAC, water heater, exterior paint).

• Schedule next year’s tasks before the holidays.

Get organized in 10 minutes: Set up your property, add equipment (HVAC, water heater), and create the tasks above as recurring reminders with HomeZada. Start here.