Home Maintenance Checklist: A Simple Home Reset to Start 2026

January 9, 2026

The start of a new year is the perfect time for a home reset.

If your house feels a little cluttered, overdue for maintenance, or full of small things you keep meaning to fix - you’re not alone. January is when many homeowners look for simple home projects that make their space feel calmer, safer, and more organized.

To help you start the year off right, our expert handyman team put together this January home maintenance checklist - focused on quick wins, preventative care, and easy upgrades that often get overlooked.

Your New Year Home Reset Checklist

These are small projects, but together they can make a big difference in how your home feels all year long.

1. Clean your dryer vent

Improves dryer efficiency, shortens drying time, and reduces fire risk - a must for family homes.

2. Test smoke and carbon monoxide alarms

A quick check (and battery swap if needed) helps protect your home and loved ones.

3. Anchor furniture and TVs

Especially important for earthquake preparedness and child safety - and often forgotten.

4. Clean out gutters and downspouts

Prevents water damage, roof issues, and foundation problems before rainy season hits.

5. Refresh caulking in kitchens and bathrooms

Keeps moisture out, prevents leaks, and instantly makes spaces look cleaner.

6. Add garage or pantry shelving

One of the fastest ways to reduce clutter and make daily life feel more organized.

7. Tune up the garbage disposal

Clearing buildup early helps prevent clogs, odors, and surprise plumbing issues later.

8. Touch up baseboards and walls

Small paint and repair fixes can completely refresh a room.

9. Update house numbers

An easy curb-appeal upgrade - and important for emergency visibility.

10. Clear slow drains

Addresses buildup before it turns into leaks or backups.

Why January Home Maintenance Matters

Many homeowners wait until something breaks - but preventative home maintenance is one of the best ways to save time, money, and stress.

January is ideal because:

  • Schedules are lighter after the holidays
  • Small issues haven’t turned into big repairs yet
  • It sets your home up to run smoothly for the rest of the year

A few hours of maintenance now can prevent months of frustration later.

A Smarter Way to Stay On Top of Home Projects

Over 3,000 families choose Honey Homes because they don’t want to manage a running list of home tasks in their heads.

Instead, they have:

  • A dedicated, trusted handyman
  • Someone who already knows their home
  • Help tackling maintenance, repairs, and seasonal projects throughout the year

No scrambling. No guesswork. Just steady progress.

Start the Year with a Lighter Home

You don’t need a full renovation to feel refreshed.
Sometimes, a few smart updates and maintenance checks are all it takes to make your home feel calmer and more put together.

Whether you tackle one project or all ten, your future self will thank you.

Here’s to a smoother, more organized start to 2026. Book a walk-thru and meet with your local team today.

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