Inspect basement

Short answer

Walk the basement perimeter with a flashlight once a year, checking walls, floor, and plumbing for cracks, water stains, efflorescence, mold, and pest droppings.

Priority: Medium
Difficulty: DIY
Time: 20 min
How often: Once a year

Why It Matters

Basements collect water from roof, drainage, and plumbing problems. Catching seepage, cracks, or pest activity early prevents mold, structural damage, and ruined storage.

Tools

Flashlight

How to Do It

Bring a flashlight and walk slowly along the perimeter of the basement, starting at one corner and working your way around.
Inspect the walls for cracks, whether hairline or wider, and note their location and orientation.
Look for water stains, white chalky deposits (efflorescence), or damp patches on walls and the floor, which indicate water intrusion.
Check for mold growth, particularly in corners, along the base of walls, and near any stored items.
Look for rodent or insect droppings, gnaw marks, or other signs of pest activity.
Examine visible plumbing pipes and joints for drips, corrosion, or moisture buildup.

Inspect attic Once a year
Inspect crawlspace Once a year
Lubricate door hinges and locks Once a year
Re-caulk tub and shower Once a year
Seal tile grout in showers and floors Once a year

Part Of

Interior

Last updated 23 September 2026

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