Spring maintenance Check List

Here’s a comprehensive Spring Maintenance Checklist tailored specifically for cottages on Georgian Bay — where winter ice, wind, moisture, and wildlife can take a toll.

Exterior Inspection

Roof & Chimney

☐ Inspecroofing for wind or ice damage and general aging
☐ Check flashing around vents and chimney
☐ Clear debris from valleys and eaves
☐ Inspect chimney cap and masonry (freeze–thaw cracks are common)

Foundation & Structure

☐ Look for cracks from frost heaving
☐ Check piers for spalling and shifting
☐ Inspect skirting and vent openings

Decks, Docks & Railings

☐ Inspect decking boards for rot or loose fasteners
☐ Tighten railing bolts
☐ Check stairs for decayed boards, including stringers and supports
☐ Inspect dock cribs, floats, and anchors (ice damage is common on Georgian Bay)
☐ Replace warped or cracked boards

Shoreline & Property Grounds

☐ Inspect retaining walls
☐ Clear fallen branches
☐ Check erosion areas
☐ Inspect boathouse structure
☐ Remove debris pushed up by ice
☐ Clean eavestroughs
Strong winds across Lake Huron can shift shoreline rocks significantly and break dock chains and connections

Septic System

☐ Inspect for winter ground shift
☐ Look for soggy areas (may indicate damage)
☐ Ensure vent stack is clear
☐ Schedule pump-out if needed
☐ Inspect pump and lines from cottage to septic tank

Water
System
Startup

If You Shut Down for Winter:

☐ Reinstall water pump (if removed)
☐ Reconnect pressure tank
☐ Check intake line from the bay or well
☐ Inspect for cracked fittings
☐ Prime pump before starting
☐ Turn on slowly and check for leaks

☐ Replace water filters

Hot Water Tank

☐ Inspect for leaks
☐ Flush sediment
☐ Confirm pressure relief valve works
☐ Fill tank completely prior to turning on heater

Interior Inspection

Electrical System

☐ Check main panel for moisture or rodent damage
☐ Inspect exterior outlets (especially dock power)
☐ Test GFCIs
☐ Replace corroded fixtures
☐ Inspect generator (common for off-grid cottages)

HVAC & Heating

☐ Clean wood stove and chimney
☐ Replace furnace filters
☐ Inspect propane lines for leaks
☐ Test carbon monoxide and smoke detectors

Safety Checks

☐ Replace batteries in all detectors
☐ Restock first aid kit
☐ Check fire extinguishers
☐ Inspect life jackets
☐ Confirm emergency boat equipment is ready

Before First Overnight Stay

☐ Confirm septic system, pumps and alarms
☐ Run water for several minutes
☐ Confirm hot water works
☐ Test appliances
☐ Check BBQ propane tank

☐ Set up outdoor furniture

Moisture & Mold & Wildlife Check

☐ Open windows to air out
☐ Check ceilings for leaks
☐ Inspect under sinks
☐ Look for mold around windows and corners
☐ Inspect cupboards and attic
☐ Check for chewed wiring
☐ Seal entry points

Windows & Doors

☐ Check seals and weather stripping
☐ Lubricate hinges
☐ Inspect screens for tears
☐ Look for cracked panes from winter contraction

Spring maintenance Check List

Exterior Inspection

Water System Startup

Interior Inspection

Water
System
Startup