March home maintenance checklist

• Open and check the backwater valve DIY
  If you have one, remove the cleanout cap and make sure the flap moves freely and nothing is stuck in it. A jammed valve can't stop a sewer backup in the spring storms. Waterproofing cost guide →
• Inspect the roof from the ground DIY
  Use binoculars or your phone's zoom. Look for missing, curled or lifted shingles and anything loose around the chimney or vents after winter winds. Roof cost guide →
• Reattach sagging eavestroughs DIY or pro
  Ice weight pulls eavestroughs away from the fascia. Look for sections that sag, pull away or leak at the joints, and fix them before April rain. Eavestrough cost guide →
• Test alarms when the clocks change DIY
  Clocks go forward on the second Sunday in March. Use it as your reminder to test every smoke and CO alarm and replace batteries in any that need them.
• Check caulking around windows and doors DIY
  On a sunny day, look for cracked or missing caulking on the outside of window and door frames. Gaps let in water as well as drafts. Windows and doors guide →
• See which rebates you qualify for Plan
  If you're planning a heat pump, insulation or new windows this year, check what rebates apply before you sign anything. Some need the work done by a participating contractor. Rebate quick-checker →

General guidance for typical GTA houses. Follow your equipment manufacturer's instructions, and call a licensed pro for gas, electrical and anything on a roof.