What Every New Homeowner in North Texas Should Know About Home Maintenance

Buying a new home is exciting, but it also comes with responsibilities that many first-time homeowners do not expect. Even brand new homes need maintenance, inspections, and small adjustments to stay in top shape.

At Borrowed Husband Handyman Services, we work with homeowners in Frisco, Prosper, McKinney, Plano and surrounding North Texas areas to make sure new homes stay safe, functional and well maintained. Here are the most important maintenance items to expect and what to watch for in your first year.

Check Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Even new homes can have outdated or incorrectly installed smoke detectors. Inspectors recommend replacing batteries every year and replacing units every ten years. Make sure smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are installed in the right locations and are fully functional. This is an easy step that protects your family and prevents safety issues.

Inspect Doors and Cabinets

New homes often settle during the first year, which can cause doors to rub, stick or not close properly. Cabinets may become misaligned or loose. Checking door function, cabinet alignment and hardware early allows you to make adjustments before bigger problems occur. A small fix now prevents frustration and wear later.

Monitor Caulking and Seals

New construction caulking can shrink or crack as the home settles. Inspect areas around sinks, tubs, toilets, windows and exterior trim for gaps. Maintaining proper caulking prevents water intrusion, mold and damage to walls or flooring.

Replace HVAC Filters Regularly

Even if the HVAC system is brand new, filters should be replaced every three to four months. Clean filters keep your system efficient, improve air quality and protect your investment. It is one of the easiest things a homeowner can do to prevent future repairs.

Inspect the Dryer Vent

A clogged dryer vent is a fire hazard even in new homes. Check the vent annually for debris, proper connections and airflow. Addressing this early keeps your laundry safe and your home protected.

Watch for Minor Settling and Cracks

It is normal for new homes to experience minor settling during the first year. Keep an eye out for:

• small drywall cracks

• gaps around trim

• uneven door frames

These are usually cosmetic but catching them early makes repairs easier and prevents small issues from becoming larger problems.

Pay Attention to Gutter and Roof Drainage

Even brand new gutters can collect debris from nearby trees and winds. Inspect gutters in spring and fall to make sure water flows away from the foundation. Proper drainage protects your home from water damage and foundation problems.

Why New Home Maintenance Matters

Even though your home is new, preventative maintenance saves time, money and stress. Addressing small issues early keeps the home functioning correctly, avoids unnecessary repairs and protects your investment for the long term.

How Borrowed Husband Can Help

We offer handyman services and maintenance packages tailored to new homeowners. From smoke detector checks and HVAC filter replacement to caulking inspections, door and cabinet adjustments, and gutter cleaning, we help homeowners stay ahead of maintenance tasks. Bundled services make it easy to handle multiple items in one visit and keep your home in excellent condition.