New Construction Home Maintenance: Your First-Year Plan

It's tempting to think a brand-new home needs no maintenance — everything is new, after all. But new construction has its own first-year priorities, and the biggest one is a window that closes: your builder warranty.

Why year one is different

A new home is still settling, its systems are brand-new (and occasionally have early defects), and you have warranty coverage you won't have later. Two jobs in year one:

1. Catch warranty issues before the coverage expires.
2. Start good routines so the home stays in great shape for decades.

Don't waste the builder warranty

Most builder warranties cover workmanship and materials for a limited window (often one year for many items). This is the time to be attentive, not relaxed:

• Watch for settling cracks in drywall and at corners — minor cracks are normal, but document them and report anything significant.
• Note any doors or windows that stick, leak air, or won't seal.
• Flag plumbing or electrical quirks early. See plumbing and electrical.
• Keep a punch list and submit items before the deadline, not after.

Anything that's a defect is the builder's cost while under warranty — and yours the day after it expires.

The first-year routine tasks

New systems still need routine care from day one:

• Change HVAC filters on schedule — construction dust makes early filters fill fast.
• Test smoke and CO alarms and learn the system.
• Learn your shutoffs — water and gas — before you ever need them.
• Establish grading and drainage. New lots often settle; make sure soil slopes away from the foundation. See exterior.
• Re-caulk as the home settles — gaps can open at tubs, counters, and exterior trim in the first year.

New landscaping needs attention too

A new build often comes with fresh sod, young plantings, and a new irrigation system. Young landscaping needs consistent watering to establish, and the irrigation system should be winterized properly in cold climates its first season.

Settling is normal — knowing the difference isn't obvious

Some settling is expected: tiny drywall cracks, nail pops, doors that need adjustment. What you're watching for is anything beyond cosmetic — large or widening cracks, sticking that worsens, or water appearing where it shouldn't. When in doubt, document it and ask while you're still under warranty.

Start your plan on move-in day

The habits you build in year one carry the home for decades. Set up a personalized schedule now so routine tasks never slip — even while everything still feels new.

Build your free Owner Tools for your new home — no login or address required — and pair it with the first 30 days guide.