5 Smart Home Checks to Start the Year Strong

January might not feel like “home project season,” but it’s actually one of the best times to take stock of how your house is holding up. The holidays are over, the weather is still cool, and you’ve got a little breathing room before spring storms, summer heat, and the busy season hit again.

Whether you’ve been in your home for years or just moved in, a quick early-year checkup can help you catch small issues now — before they turn into major repairs later.

Here are five areas worth a closer look this month:

1. Roof & Attic: Look for Leaks or Insulation Gaps

Houston may not see snow, but winter storms and temperature swings still take a toll on your roof. In the attic, check for:

• Water stains on the ceiling or decking

• Signs of pest activity or nesting

• Uneven insulation or drafts

• Daylight coming in through roof seams or vents

Even small leaks can go unnoticed until spring rains arrive. Catching them now gives you time to repair, not panic.

2. Exterior & Foundation: Walk the Perimeter

A slow walk around the outside of your home can tell you a lot. Look for:

• Cracks along the foundation or brickwork

• Peeling paint or damaged siding

• Shifting steps or sagging gutters

• Water pooling near the base of your home

These may seem like cosmetic issues, but they can signal drainage problems or foundation movement — especially after months of weather changes.

3. Plumbing & Fixtures: Watch for Drips and Water Pressure Changes

The holidays often push plumbing systems harder than usual. Now’s the time to check for:

• Slow drains or toilets that keep running

• Faucet leaks or moisture under sinks

• Water heater issues or old supply lines

• Low water pressure in one area of the home

Small plumbing problems can quietly lead to water damage or mold if left unchecked.

4. Interior Walls & Ceilings: Spot the Early Signs

Interior cracks, stains, or bubbling paint may seem minor, but they often point to hidden problems:

• Settling or shifting in the foundation

• Moisture behind walls

• Inadequate ventilation or attic insulation

If anything looks “off,” even slightly, take a photo and keep an eye on it — or bring in a professional to check it out.

5. Electrical Panel & GFCIs: Easy to Forget, Important to Check

Homeowners rarely look at their electrical systems unless something goes wrong. But a quick check can prevent surprises:

• Reset and test GFCI outlets

• Note any flickering lights or tripped breakers

• Confirm nothing smells hot or looks scorched at the panel

• Make sure your smoke and CO detectors are working and up to date

Bonus: When to Call in a Professional

If your home is more than 10 years old, if you’ve had recent foundation work or water damage, or if you’re planning renovations this year, it might be time for a full inspection — not because something’s wrong, but because it’s smart to know what’s going on behind the walls.

At Fox Inspection Group, we help Houston homeowners catch the issues they can’t see — and avoid the stress and cost that come from being caught off guard.

Final Thought

A little attention now can make the rest of your year a whole lot easier. If your home hasn’t had a checkup in a while, or something doesn’t look quite right, we’re here to help.

Start strong. Fix what’s fixable. And give your house the same fresh start you’re giving everything else in 2026.