The Handyman's 2026 Home Maintenance Checklist for Salt Lake Valley
Fresh year, fresh start! As we kick off 2026, there's no better time to tackle that home maintenance list you've been putting off. Whether you're managing rental properties in Herriman, maintaining your family home in Sandy, or overseeing multiple units in West Valley City, a solid maintenance plan keeps small issues from becoming expensive disasters.
As a licensed B100 General Contractor serving the entire Salt Lake Valley, we've seen what happens when homeowners skip their yearly maintenance check-ins. Spoiler alert: it's never pretty (or cheap). That's why we've created this comprehensive 2026 maintenance checklist specifically designed for our unique Utah climate and seasonal challenges.
Why January is Perfect for Home Maintenance Planning
Utah winters are tough on homes. Between temperature swings, snow loads, and those brutal inversion days, your property takes a beating. January gives you a chance to assess winter damage before it gets worse and plan spring repairs while contractors' schedules are lighter.
Plus, starting the year with a solid maintenance plan means you're being proactive instead of reactive. Trust us: calling a Salt Lake handyman for an emergency repair costs way more than scheduled maintenance.
Your 2026 Home Maintenance Checklist
Exterior Inspection & Winter Damage Assessment
❏ Check Your Roof for Snow Load Issues
With Utah's unpredictable snowfall, your roof needs attention. Look for sagging, missing shingles, or ice dam formation. If you're in Magna or West Valley City where older homes are common, pay special attention to gutters pulling away from the roofline.
❏ Inspect Siding and Exterior Paint
Temperature fluctuations cause expansion and contraction that can crack paint and damage siding. Walk around your property and note any areas where moisture might penetrate. This is especially important for homes in Riverton and Herriman, where newer construction might be experiencing settling issues.
❏ Test Exterior Lights and Electrical
Those holiday lights might have revealed some electrical issues. Check all exterior outlets, fixtures, and ensure your main electrical panel is properly labeled. Minor electrical concerns caught early prevent major problems down the road.
❏ Examine Decks, Patios, and Outdoor Structures
Snow and ice are hard on outdoor living spaces. Check for loose railings, damaged boards, or structural issues. Deck railing failing during a New Year's party: not the kind of excitement you want!
Interior Systems Check
❏ Test All GFCI Outlets
Press the test and reset buttons on bathroom, kitchen, garage, and outdoor outlets. These safety features save lives, but they need regular testing to work properly.
❏ Replace HVAC Filters
Utah's air quality means your filters work overtime. Mark your calendar to change them every 90 days minimum, more frequently during high pollution or construction periods.
❏ Check Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Test all units and replace batteries. With forced-air heating systems running constantly in Salt Lake Valley homes, carbon monoxide safety isn't optional.
❏ Inspect Plumbing for Winter Damage
Look for signs of frozen pipes: water stains, reduced water pressure, or unusual sounds. Check under sinks, in basements, and near exterior walls. A small leak caught early saves thousands in water damage repairs.
The "Stop It Before It Starts" Interior List
❏ Address Drafty Doors and Windows
Utah heating bills are no joke. Check weatherstripping, caulking, and window seals. Even small drafts waste energy and money. This is particularly important for older homes in Sandy and Magna where original windows might need attention.
❏ Tighten Loose Handrails and Stairs
With winter ice and slippery conditions, secure handrails aren't just convenience: they're safety. Check both interior and exterior railings for loose connections or wobbly posts.
❏ Fix Dripping Faucets and Small Leaks
That "minor" drip can waste 3,000+ gallons per year and indicate bigger plumbing issues. Plus, excess moisture in Utah Valley homes can lead to mold problems in our dry climate when humidity gets trapped indoors.
❏ Investigate Squeaky or Uneven Floors
Squeaks often indicate loose subflooring or structural movement. While annoying, they can signal issues that need professional attention before they worsen.
Safety and Security Updates
❏ Review Home Security Systems
Update codes, test cameras, and ensure all entry points are properly monitored. With longer winter nights, security becomes even more important.
❏ Check Emergency Supplies
Utah weather can change quickly. Verify your emergency kit includes flashlights, batteries, water, and basic tools. Keep contact information for local contractors handy for emergency repairs.
❏ Inspect Fire Safety Equipment
Beyond smoke detectors, check fire extinguishers, escape routes, and ensure everyone in your household knows the plan.
Seasonal Prep for Spring
❏ Plan Major Projects Early
Spring is prime time for Utah construction and remodeling. Get quotes now for projects like deck replacement, siding repair, or bathroom remodels. Contractors book up fast when good weather returns.
❏ Schedule Professional Inspections
Plan annual HVAC servicing, chimney cleaning, and roof inspections for early spring. Catching issues before the busy season means better service and pricing.
❏ Research Contractors and Get Licenses Verified
If you're planning major work, now is the time to research. Verify contractors are properly licensed and insured. Your Handyman Pros carries full B100 General Contractor licensing, which covers everything from electrical and plumbing to major renovations.
Don't Go It Alone: When to Call the Pros
Some maintenance tasks are perfect DIY projects, but others require professional expertise. As licensed general contractors serving Salt Lake, Davis, Wasatch, Summit, and Tooele counties, we handle everything from minor repairs to complete home remodels.
Call a professional for:
Electrical issues beyond simple outlet testing
Plumbing problems that involve main lines or significant leaks
Structural concerns with decks, stairs, or load-bearing elements
Roof repairs or major exterior work
Any project requiring permits or inspections
Make 2026 Your Year of Smart Home Maintenance
Here's the thing about home maintenance: small actions now prevent big expenses later. A $50 caulking job today prevents a $5,000 water damage repair next year. A quick handrail tightening prevents a costly injury lawsuit.
Whether you're a homeowner in Herriman planning your first major renovation, a landlord in West Valley City maintaining multiple properties, or a property manager overseeing rentals throughout the Salt Lake Valley, this checklist keeps you ahead of problems.
Your Next Steps
Start with a walkthrough of your property using this checklist. Make notes of items that need attention, and prioritize by safety and potential damage. Some tasks you can handle yourself, others need professional help.
Remember, Your Handyman Pros isn't just about emergency repairs. We offer project management for major remodels, skilled trades services for electrical and plumbing work, and tailored solutions for any size project. From minor maintenance to complete home transformations, we're your licensed, insured partner for keeping Salt Lake Valley properties in top condition.
Ready to tackle your 2026 home maintenance? Print this checklist, grab a cup of coffee, and start planning. Your future self (and your wallet) will thank you when small issues stay small and your home stays safe, comfortable, and valuable all year long.
Need help with any items on this list? Our team is standing by to help homeowners throughout Salt Lake Valley start the new year right. Because the best time to fix something is before it breaks: and 2026 is the perfect year to stay ahead of the game.
