The Ultimate Coastal Home Maintenance Checklist

Owning a coastal home is a dream—but the ocean breeze, salt air, and seasonal storms bring unique maintenance challenges. Whether you live at the shore year-round or only during the summer, having a solid maintenance plan is essential to protecting your investment and keeping your property in pristine condition.

At Avalon Property Management, we’ve curated the ultimate coastal home maintenance checklist to help you safeguard your home against the elements and avoid costly repairs down the line.

🏠 Exterior Maintenance

1. Inspect and Maintain Siding & Trim

Salt air and wind can wear down siding, paint, and trim. Check for peeling paint, cracks, or warping and repaint or repair as needed.

2. Power Wash Surfaces

Decks, patios, walkways, and siding can build up salt and mildew. An annual soft wash or power wash helps preserve surfaces and prevent deterioration.

3. Roof & Gutter Inspection

Look for loose shingles, rust spots, and clogged gutters. Clean debris to ensure proper drainage, especially before storm season.

4. Window & Door Seals

Inspect and replace any worn weather stripping or seals to prevent drafts, leaks, and energy loss.

5. Check Fencing and Railings

Salt corrosion weakens metal and wood over time. Tighten loose parts, sand rust spots, and repaint or seal for protection.

🌿 Outdoor Areas

6. Maintain Landscaping

Trim shrubs and trees to prevent overgrowth and damage to siding or roofing. Remove invasive species that thrive in salty environments.

7. Prepare Irrigation Systems

Check for leaks, clogged heads, and proper water coverage. Drain outdoor plumbing lines before winter if you’re closing the home.

8. Outdoor Furniture Care

Rinse and clean teak, aluminum, or resin furniture regularly. Apply protective finishes to prevent fading and cracking.

9. Clean & Inspect Outdoor Showers

Make sure drains are clear and fittings are secure to avoid leaks into exterior walls.

🪛 Interior Maintenance

10. Check HVAC System

Salt air can corrode components. Have a professional perform seasonal tune-ups and replace air filters regularly.

11. Inspect Plumbing for Corrosion

Saltwater environments can be hard on pipes. Look for leaks, corrosion, and signs of water damage under sinks and around fixtures.

12. Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Always test alarms and replace batteries annually for safety.

13. Seal Attic and Basement Openings

Prevent moisture intrusion and pest entry by sealing gaps and cracks around vents and foundation openings.

14. Control Humidity Levels

Use dehumidifiers to prevent mold and mildew, especially in closed-up homes during the off-season.

🌀 Storm & Seasonal Preparation

15. Secure Outdoor Items

Before major storms, bring in or tie down outdoor furniture, umbrellas, and decor to prevent damage.

16. Close Storm Shutters or Install Hurricane Panels

Protect your windows and doors during hurricane season with properly fitted shutters or panels.

17. Winterize Your Home

If you close your coastal home for the winter, shut off water, drain pipes, unplug appliances, and set the thermostat to prevent freezing.

✔️ Bonus: Partner With a Local Property Management Team

Managing all these tasks can be overwhelming—especially if your coastal home is a secondary residence. That’s where Avalon Property Management comes in. Our Home Care Program ensures your property gets routine inspections, preventive maintenance, and quick response to any issues.

We take the worry out of coastal homeownership so you can focus on enjoying your time by the sea.

Ready for Peace of Mind?

If you want to schedule a seasonal inspection or learn more about our full-service property management, contact Avalon Property Management today. Let our experienced team protect your home like it’s our own.

[📞 609-741-6996] | [📧[jake@avalonpropertymgmt.com]