🏡 Year-End Home Safety Check: Simple Tasks That Prevent Big Problems

A practical checklist to close out the year safely

As the year comes to an end, winter conditions put extra stress on your home’s fire safety, electrical systems, and plumbing. A quick year-end safety check can help you catch small issues now—before they turn into costly emergencies during the coldest months.

Below is a simple checklist based on what inspectors commonly see during winter inspections.

🔥 Fire Safety Checklist

• ☐ Test smoke and carbon monoxide alarms on every level

• ☐ Replace batteries or note units that need replacement

• ☐ Keep at least 3 feet of clearance around furnaces and space heaters

• ☐ Plug space heaters directly into wall outlets only

• ☐ Clean dryer lint traps and check exterior vent flaps

• ☐ Inspect fireplaces for creosote buildup before regular use

⚡ Electrical Safety Checklist

• ☐ Look for warm, buzzing, or discolored outlets

• ☐ Avoid overloading outlets with holiday lighting

• ☐ Replace damaged or frayed extension cords

• ☐ Make sure GFCI outlets trip and reset properly

• ☐ Watch for frequently tripped breakers

• ☐ Keep electrical panels clear and accessible

💧 Plumbing & Winter Freeze Checklist

• ☐ Insulate exposed pipes in basements, garages, and crawl spaces

• ☐ Disconnect exterior hoses

• ☐ Confirm exterior hose bibs are shut off if possible

• ☐ Know the location of your main water shutoff

• ☐ Check under sinks for cold drafts or signs of leaking

• ☐ Make sure sump pump discharge lines are not frozen

🧭 Bonus Winter Safety Tasks

• ☐ Replace furnace filters

• ☐ Clear gutters and downspouts

• ☐ Check attic ventilation for signs of moisture or frost

• ☐ Remove storage from around water heaters and furnaces

A Safer Start to the New Year

These simple year-end tasks can help prevent fires, frozen pipes, electrical failures, and water damage during Chicago’s harsh winter months. A professional inspection adds another layer of protection by catching issues that aren’t always visible.

👉 Book your home inspection with City Home Inspectors online at www.cityhomeinspectors.com.