A New Year’s Checklist for Your Home’s Health and Safety

The New Year is the perfect time to start fresh—and not just with personal resolutions. Your home deserves a little TLC too. After all, it’s where you spend most of your time, and ensuring it’s safe and healthy is a resolution worth keeping. To help you kick off the year right, we’ve put together a room-by-room checklist to make sure your home is disaster-ready and free from hidden risks like mold, electrical issues, and water damage.

Let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into your New Year’s home health and safety inspection!

The Kitchen: Clean, Clear, and Safe

The heart of the home deserves a little extra attention. Start here:

Inspect Under the Sink: Check for leaks or signs of water damage under your sink. Even a slow drip can lead to mold growth over time.
Clean the Range Hood and Vent: Grease buildup can be a fire hazard. Wipe down the range hood and ensure the vent is free of blockages.
Check Appliances: Inspect water lines for your dishwasher and fridge. Replace any that show signs of wear or cracks to prevent leaks.

The Bathroom: Stop Moisture in Its Tracks

Bathrooms are prime territory for water damage and mold growth. Keep them in check with these steps:

Look for Leaks: Check around toilets, sinks, and tubs for leaks or loose fittings.
Inspect Grout and Caulking: Cracked or missing grout and caulking can let water seep behind tiles, leading to hidden mold. Reseal as needed.
Turn on the Fan: Ensure your bathroom fan is working properly to reduce moisture buildup after showers.

Bedrooms: Breathe Easy

Your bedroom should be a sanctuary, so let’s ensure it’s as safe and healthy as possible.

Check Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Replace batteries in all detectors and test them to make sure they’re functioning.
Look for Mold: Inspect windowsills and corners for condensation or signs of mold. Proper insulation and ventilation can help prevent this issue.
Inspect Electrical Outlets: If you’re using extension cords or power strips, ensure they’re not overloaded. Consider upgrading to surge protectors for added safety.

The Living Room: Comfort Meets Safety

This space is all about relaxing, but don’t let hidden hazards lurk beneath the surface.

Fireplace Maintenance: If you have a fireplace, have it inspected and cleaned annually to prevent chimney fires.
Check Cords and Plugs: Look for frayed cords or loose plugs, as they can be fire hazards. Replace any damaged items.
Test Emergency Exits: Make sure windows and doors open easily in case of an emergency.

The Basement: Your Home’s Foundation

The basement is often where hidden issues like water damage and mold start. Make it a priority on your checklist.

Inspect for Water Damage: Look for signs of moisture on walls and floors. If you notice any musty odors, that could indicate hidden mold.
Test Your Sump Pump: If you have a sump pump, make sure it’s functioning properly to prevent flooding during heavy rains or snowmelt.
Check HVAC Systems: Replace filters and inspect your furnace for any signs of wear or leaks.

The Exterior: Your First Line of Defense

Don’t forget about the outside of your home—it plays a big role in keeping the inside safe.

Clean Gutters and Downspouts: Ensure water is draining away from your home to prevent leaks and foundation damage.
Inspect the Roof: Look for missing or damaged shingles that could let water seep in.
Disconnect Garden Hoses: If you haven’t already, remove garden hoses from outdoor faucets to prevent freezing and bursting pipes.

Bonus Tips: Stay Ahead of Potential Disasters

Create an Emergency Kit: Include essentials like water, flashlights, batteries, and a first-aid kit.
Review Your Insurance Policy: Make sure your coverage includes fire, flood, and water damage.
Schedule Professional Inspections: Bring in experts to check for hidden issues like asbestos, mold, or structural damage.

A Safe Start to the New Year

Taking the time to inspect your home now can save you from costly repairs and stressful disasters down the road. By following this checklist, you’ll be setting yourself—and your home—up for a safe and worry-free year ahead.

If you discover any issues during your inspection, don’t hesitate to reach out to Ultrawest Restoration. From water damage to mold remediation and everything in between, our team is here to help you protect what matters most. Here’s to a healthy, happy, and safe home in 2025!