Monthly Home Safety Checklist

A quick 10–15 minute walkthrough each month prevents most home safety failures. Alarms stay working, hazards get caught early, and you avoid the “I should’ve fixed that” problems that only show up after something breaks.

For seasonal-level tasks, also review the Seasonal Home Safety Checklist.

1. Test Detectors and Alarms

• [ ] Test every smoke alarm
• [ ] Test carbon monoxide alarms
• [ ] Verify no alarms are chirping (low battery warning)
• [ ] Check expiration dates on detectors

2. Check Doors, Locks, and Entry Points

• [ ] Ensure all exterior doors latch securely
• [ ] Confirm deadbolts fully extend into the frame
• [ ] Test garage-to-house door for proper closing
• [ ] Check window latches are still tight and functional

3. Walk the Home for Electrical Hazards

• [ ] Inspect cords for fraying or pinching
• [ ] Verify no outlets feel warm to the touch
• [ ] Test GFCIs in bathrooms, kitchen, and garage
• [ ] Look for overloaded power strips

4. Verify Lighting and Visibility

• [ ] Replace burned-out bulbs at doors and walkways
• [ ] Confirm motion lights activate correctly
• [ ] Check house numbers for nighttime visibility
• [ ] Walk the yard at night to spot dark areas

5. Inspect Fire Safety Items

• [ ] Confirm fire extinguishers are charged and accessible
• [ ] Clear clutter away from stoves and heaters
• [ ] Make sure exits are not blocked by storage
• [ ] Verify space heaters (if used) have 3 feet of clearance

6. Security System and Cameras

• [ ] Check camera angles and confirm they still record
• [ ] Clean camera lenses for clear footage
• [ ] Confirm sensors on windows/doors still show as closed
• [ ] Update firmware if prompted

7. Kitchen and Appliance Safety

• [ ] Inspect stove area for grease buildup
• [ ] Confirm dryer lint trap and vent are clean
• [ ] Check under sinks for leaks or moisture
• [ ] Run water briefly at unused sinks to prevent traps from drying

8. Interior Walkthrough

• [ ] Look for new cracks, leaks, stains, or soft spots on walls or ceilings
• [ ] Verify stair handrails are solid
• [ ] Remove trip hazards like loose rugs or cords
• [ ] Ensure windows open and close smoothly

9. Exterior Quick Check

• [ ] Walk the perimeter for damaged siding or loose boards
• [ ] Inspect fences and gates
• [ ] Look for new gaps around doors or windows
• [ ] Confirm gutters aren’t overflowing or blocked

10. Emergency and Supplies Review

• [ ] Check expiration dates on emergency kit supplies
• [ ] Replace expired batteries or medications
• [ ] Review and update emergency contacts list
• [ ] Top off water and long-term food items if needed

Ten minutes a month keeps your home from turning into a problem factory. The small stuff you catch here prevents the big stuff you don’t want to deal with later.