There’s nothing quite like owning your own home. Homeownership offers many perks, including your own space and the freedom to customize. However, along with these benefits comes the responsibility of upkeep and maintenance.
Whether it’s a leaky roof, broken appliances, or general maintenance, when you own your own home, there’s no landlord to call when things go wrong. That’s why planning ahead for home maintenance and repairs is one of the best things homeowners can do to avoid unnecessary stress and prevent their home's value from depreciating.
This comprehensive guide breaks down the most common home maintenance costs and the cost to replace major appliances like air conditioning units, furnaces, and water heaters. Keep reading to learn what expenses you should prepare for when purchasing your first home.
Average Home Maintenance Costs
Home maintenance should be completed regularly, but the frequency at which you should complete each task will vary. Some routine maintenance tasks like lawn mowing and HVAC filter replacement require monthly or biweekly attention. Others, like leaf removal and power washing, only need to be completed once or twice a year. Newer homes may also require less maintenance than older ones.
Here’s a breakdown of the most common home maintenance tasks needed to take care of a home, along with their average cost and the frequency at which you should complete them:
Lawn Mowing and Landscaping
Maintaining your lawn can be a significant part of home upkeep, especially during rainy months and the summer when your lawn grows more quickly. Lawn mowing alone can cost $36 to $105 per visit1 if you outsource the task to a professional. Additional lawn maintenance tasks include lawn fertilization, landscaping, and leaf removal. While these tasks can cost hundreds of dollars, you can also handle them yourself if you have the necessary equipment and time. Handling these tasks yourself is a great way to decrease your annual maintenance costs.
Gutter Cleaning
While it’s one of the more inconvenient home maintenance tasks, gutter cleaning is essential on a home with gutters. Clogged gutters can lead to expensive problems, including water damage and roof leaks. According to Angi, gutter cleaning can cost between $1192 and $234 per visit, depending on the size of your house and the buildup your gutters have accumulated. If you want to try your hand at DIY gutter cleaning3, wear proper safety equipment and work within safe ladder guidelines to ensure you don’t injure yourself.
Power washing
In recent years, power washing has become a popular side hustle, but it has always been essential to minimize the build-up of grime on the exterior of your home. Many power washing companies offer siding and driveway cleaning services, which can cost anywhere from $1005 to $4476 per cleaning.
Heating and Air Conditioning (HVAC) Maintenance
Your home’s heating and cooling system requires regular maintenance throughout the year to ensure it works smoothly. One of the most straightforward maintenance tasks you’ll need to complete is changing out your HVAC filters. New filters cost between $10 and $507 and should be replaced monthly or at least every four months, depending on the type of heating and cooling system you have.
You should also hire a professional to tune up your HVAC system at least once every year. During the visit, the HVAC technician will thoroughly inspect your furnace and air conditioning units and systems, and clean and check your ductwork for any flaws. The average HVAC tuneup costs between $75 and $2008, depending on the work needed.
Plumbing Maintenance
Plumbing repairs can get expensive quickly, so it’s essential to have your drain pipes and other parts of your home’s plumbing system inspected annually, especially if you own an older home. During a plumbing inspection, the company will check your home’s water pressure, locate and service any leaks, and inspect drain and sewer lines. Standard visual plumbing inspections can cost between $1009 and $300, while more intensive camera inspections might cost upwards of $1,100.
Average Home Repair Costs
Home repairs are an inevitable part of homeownership, but knowing what to expect financially can help you prepare for these expenses before they occur. From major features like your roof and furnace to more minor repairs like electrical outlets and switches, these costs can add up quickly.
One way to mitigate some of these expenses is by purchasing home insurance that covers certain repairs or replacements, such as those caused by accidents or natural disasters. However, it's important to note that not all repairs are covered under standard home insurance policies, and there may be exclusions depending on your policy. To avoid surprises, review your coverage and consider adding riders (sometimes called an add-on or floater policy)10 if needed.
Here’s a breakdown of the average costs for some common home repairs and replacements, along with the average lifespan of each item or appliance:
Roof Repairs
Roof repairs are one of the most significant expenses homeowners can endure. The average roof replacement costs between $6,000 and $50,00011, depending on the size and shape of your roof and the type of material you want to use. The type of material you choose will also dictate how long your home’s roof will last. Home roofs generally last 10 to 30 years when installed correctly and maintained properly.
Furnace Repairs
Most furnaces will last between 15 and 30 years, so replacing yours isn’t something you’ll have to do too often. However, if your furnace begins to fail, inadequately heat your house, emit strange noises, or produce inconsistent airflow, this could be a sign that it needs repairs or replacement. The average furnace replacement costs between $2,819 and $6,87812, and the best way to prolong the life of your furnace is through regular tune-ups and filter changes.
Air Conditioner Repairs
Home air conditioning is crucial for comfort, especially during the summer months. AC units typically last between 10-15 years before they need to be replaced. However, if you start to notice issues like a lack of cool air, odd sounds, or unpleasant odors, it might be time to consider repairs or replacement. The average home air conditioning unit costs between $3,906 and $8,01613 to replace (including installation).
Electrical Repairs
Electrical repairs can vary significantly in cost depending on the issue at hand. Simple outlet or light switch replacements may only cost you between $125 and $200 per unit14. However, more extensive issues like a faulty electrical panel or blown wiring can become expensive. Electrical problems can also be more dangerous than other home repairs, so if you notice any issues, it’s important to call a professional electrician immediately.
Finding and Maintaining Your Dream Home
Owning a home comes with the responsibility of regular maintenance and the possiblity of unexpected repairs. Being financially prepared is the key to managing these costs. From routine tasks like lawn care and HVAC tune-ups to more extensive repairs such as roof and furnace replacements, creating a maintenance budget to plan for these expenses can reduce stress and help keep your home in excellent condition.
As you consider your homeownership journey, finding the perfect home is is the place to start. Century Communities' Find Your Home feature can help you discover dream homes nationwide. Start your search today to find a new construction home that matches your budget, design preferences, and lifestyle.
Home Repairs FAQ
How much should I budget for home maintenance?
According to State Farm Insurance, the average homeowner should set aside at least 1% of their home's value to cover the annual cost of routine maintenance.
What is the average lifespan of a home AC unit?
The average home air conditioning unit lasts between 10 to 15 years.
What are the most common home maintenance costs?
The most common house maintenance costs include lawn care and landscaping, HVAC inspection and tuneups, plumbing inspections, and general upkeep.
