These are essential checks that should be performed every month, whether you're in residence or managing the property from abroad.

Exterior Inspection

Walk around your property and look for any visible issues. Check for:

• Roof tiles: Look for displaced, cracked, or missing tiles

• Walls: Inspect for cracks, dampness, or paint damage

• Gutters and downpipes: Ensure they're clear of debris and draining properly

• Windows and doors: Check seals and frames for wear or damage

• Garden and landscaping: Monitor plant health and irrigation systems

Interior Checks

Even if you're not using the property, these interior checks are crucial:

• Run all taps: Prevent pipe seals from drying out and check for leaks

• Flush toilets: Ensure mechanisms are working and no leaks are present

• Check under sinks: Look for moisture or signs of leaks

• Test all lights: Replace any burned-out bulbs

• Open windows briefly: Allow fresh air circulation to prevent mustiness and mold

• Check for pests: Look for signs of insects or rodents

Systems Check

• Test alarm systems: Ensure security systems are functioning properly

• Check air conditioning units: Run them briefly even in winter

• Inspect water heater: Check for leaks or unusual sounds

• Test pool equipment: If you have a pool, verify pumps and filters are working

Every three months, dedicate time to these more thorough checks and maintenance tasks.

Deep Cleaning

• Professional cleaning: Consider hiring cleaners for a thorough deep clean

• Ceiling fans and fixtures: Dust and clean all light fixtures and fans

• Appliances: Clean oven, refrigerator coils, and dishwasher filters

• Windows: Clean both inside and out, including frames and tracks

• Floors: Deep clean tiles, grout, and any carpeted areas

HVAC Systems

• Air conditioning service: Clean or replace filters

• Heating systems: Test and service before winter arrives

• Ventilation: Clean extractor fans in kitchens and bathrooms

Outdoor Maintenance

• Garden care: Prune plants, trees, and shrubs as needed

• Irrigation system: Check for leaks, broken sprinkler heads, or blocked lines

• Pool maintenance: Deep clean pool, check chemical levels, inspect equipment

• Outdoor furniture: Clean and inspect for wear or damage

• Barbecue area: Clean and service if applicable

Safety Checks

• Smoke detectors: Test and replace batteries

• Fire extinguishers: Check pressure gauges and expiration dates

• First aid kit: Restock any used items

• Emergency lighting: Test backup lights and torches

Twice a year—ideally in spring and autumn—tackle these important maintenance projects.

Spring Preparation (March-April)

Exterior

• Roof inspection: Professional inspection recommended after winter storms

• Paint touch-ups: Repair any weather damage to exterior paint

• Seal driveways and patios: Check for cracks and reseal if necessary

• Clean outdoor areas: Power wash terraces, patios, and exterior walls

• Prepare pool for summer: Full opening service if closed for winter

Interior

• Check for water damage: Inspect ceilings and walls for stains

• Service major appliances: Schedule professional maintenance

• Pest control: Consider preventive treatment before summer

• Deep clean soft furnishings: Curtains, cushions, and upholstery

Autumn Preparation (October-November)

Exterior

• Gutter cleaning: Remove leaves and debris before rainy season

• Tree trimming: Cut back overhanging branches that could cause storm damage

• Garden winterization: Protect sensitive plants

• Secure outdoor items: Store or secure furniture and decorations

• Pool winterization: If closing for winter, follow proper procedures

Interior

• Heating system service: Professional inspection and cleaning

• Check insulation: Inspect around doors and windows

• Prepare for storms: Check emergency supplies and battery-operated equipment

• Service fireplace: If applicable, have chimney cleaned and inspected

Once a year, these comprehensive checks and services are essential.

Professional Inspections

• Structural inspection: Professional assessment of foundation, walls, and roof

• Electrical system check: Licensed electrician inspection

• Plumbing inspection: Professional leak detection and pipe assessment

• Septic tank service: If applicable, schedule pumping and inspection

• Well maintenance: If you have a well, annual testing and servicing

Documentation and Compliance

• Property tax (IMI): Ensure annual property tax is paid on time

• Insurance review: Update property insurance and check coverage

• Utility contracts: Review and compare rates

• Permits and licenses: Renew any required permits (especially for rentals)

• Inventory update: Document any changes to property contents for insurance

Major Systems

• Boiler service: Annual professional servicing

• Swimming pool equipment: Comprehensive inspection and service

• Security system upgrade: Update if needed and test all components

• Solar panels: If installed, professional cleaning and inspection

Summer (June-September)

The hot, dry Algarve summer requires specific attention:

• Increase watering frequency: Gardens and potted plants need more water

• Monitor AC usage: Ensure systems are coping with demand

• Check water supply: Be aware of potential restrictions during dry periods

• Pool maintenance: More frequent testing and chemical balancing needed

• Sun damage prevention: Close shutters or blinds to protect interior furnishings

Winter (December-February)

While mild compared to northern Europe, Algarve winters still require preparation:

• Storm readiness: Secure outdoor items before forecasted storms

• Drainage check: Ensure water drains away from property

• Heating systems: Test and use periodically even in mild weather

• Humidity control: Prevent mold in unused properties

• Emergency preparedness: Have plans for power outages

While this checklist covers regular maintenance you can manage yourself, certain situations require professional intervention:

Immediate Action Required:

• Water leaks or flooding

• Electrical issues or power failures

• Structural cracks or movement

• Pest infestations

• Security system failures

• Major appliance breakdowns

Professional Assessment Needed:

• Persistent damp or mold

• Unusual sounds from plumbing or HVAC systems

• Roof damage

• Drainage problems

• Tree disease or instability

If you're managing your Algarve property from abroad, staying on top of this maintenance schedule can be challenging. Consider these realities:

Time Investment: Even with this checklist, you're looking at 5-10 hours of work monthly, plus travel time if you're not local.

Local Knowledge Required: Knowing which contractors to call, understanding local building regulations, and speaking Portuguese are significant advantages.

Emergency Response: When something goes wrong, being thousands of kilometers away adds stress and delays.

Seasonal Timing: Some maintenance tasks need to happen at specific times—difficult if your visits don't align with these needs.

Professional property management services like AlgarVilla Care handle all these maintenance tasks systematically:

• Regular scheduled inspections following comprehensive checklists

• Immediate emergency response when issues arise

• Established contractor relationships ensuring quality work at fair prices

• Detailed reporting with photos after every visit

• Proactive problem detection catching small issues before they become expensive repairs

• Seasonal preparation timed perfectly for Algarve weather patterns

• Complete documentation for insurance and resale purposes

For many property owners, the peace of mind and time savings far outweigh the management costs—especially when you consider the potential expense of one major problem caught too late.

AlgarVilla Care provides comprehensive property management services including all the maintenance tasks outlined in this checklist. With over 17 years of experience in the Algarve, we treat every property as if it were our own.

Our services include regular inspections, emergency response, maintenance coordination, utility management, and complete peace of mind for property owners living near or far.

Service Area: Golden Triangle, Loulé, Faro, Olhão, Vilamoura, and surrounding areas.

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