The holidays are a time for celebration, guests, and cozy moments at home — but they’re also one of the most common seasons for unexpected household disasters. From frozen pipes to kitchen fires, many emergencies can be prevented with a little preparation.
Follow this holiday home maintenance checklist to protect your property, your guests, and your peace of mind.
Inspect Your Plumbing Before Temperatures Drop
Cold weather puts extra stress on your plumbing system, increasing the risk of burst pipes and water damage.
- Check exposed pipes in basements, garages, and crawl spaces for insulation
- Disconnect outdoor hoses and shut off exterior water lines
- Look for slow leaks under sinks and around toilets
Pro Tip: If you’re traveling for the holidays, turn off your main water supply or have someone check your home every few days.
Learn how smart home devices can alert you to fire and water damage (even while you’re away) here: How Smart Home Devices Are Helping Prevent Fire and Water Damage
Test Heating Systems and Fireplaces
Your heating system works overtime during winter months, and neglected equipment can become a serious fire hazard.
- Schedule a professional HVAC inspection.
- Replace furnace filters.
- Have chimneys and fireplaces cleaned before use.
Pro Tip: Never leave space heaters unattended, and keep them at least three feet away from decorations, furniture, and curtains.
Want more on the most common causes of house fires? We’ve got you covered: The Most Common Fire Hazards in Modern Homes (and How to Prevent Them)
Check Electrical Systems and Holiday Decorations
Holiday lighting adds warmth and cheer — but faulty wiring can quickly lead to fires.
- Inspect extension cords and light strands for fraying or damage
- Avoid overloading outlets
- Use only indoor-rated lights inside your home
Pro Tip: Plug holiday decorations into surge protectors with automatic shut-off features for added safety.
If disaster strikes during the holiday, have an actionable plan in place. Learn more here: What to Do When Holiday Disasters Strike: A Quick Action Plan
Clean Gutters and Inspect the Roof
Snow and ice buildup can cause roof leaks and water intrusion if drainage is blocked.
- Clear leaves and debris from gutters
- Check for missing or damaged shingles
- Look for signs of previous water stains in the attic
Pro Tip: Proper gutter maintenance helps prevent ice dams, one of the leading causes of winter water damage.
For more common causes of residential water damage, read our article: Top 5 Causes of Residential Water Damage (and How to Prevent Them)
Prepare the Kitchen for Holiday Cooking
The kitchen sees more activity during the holidays than any other time of year — and that’s when fires are most likely.
- Clean grease from stovetops, ovens, and range hoods
- Keep flammable items away from cooking areas
- Never leave cooking food unattended
Pro Tip: Keep a fire extinguisher easily accessible and make sure everyone in the household knows where it is.
To understand why kitchen fires are more common during the holidays, check out our comprehensive guide: Why Kitchen Fires Spike During Thanksgiving — and What Homeowners Should Know
Check Smoke Detectors and Carbon Monoxide Alarms
With increased heating and cooking, functional alarms are essential.
- Test all smoke and CO detectors
- Replace batteries as needed
- Ensure alarms are installed on every level of your home
When Prevention Isn’t Enough, Call the Pros
Even with careful planning, emergencies can still happen. Water leaks, fires, and storm damage don’t wait for convenient times.
Ensure your peace of mind for the holidays and beyond by following this holiday home maintenance checklist. Reduce the risk of costly disasters and focus on what matters most — time with loved ones.
And if the unexpected happens, 24 Hour Flood Pros is available around the clock to handle fire and water damage quickly, professionally, and compassionately.
