The Christmas season is one of the most joyful times of the year, but it can also be one of the most stressful—especially when your home isn’t quite ready for guests, decorations, cooking, and winter weather. Whether you’re hosting family, preparing for travel, or simply wanting a cozy and safe space for the holidays, a little planning goes a long way. At Inspected Moore, we help homeowners make the most of every season, and Christmas is no exception.
Here’s how to get your home holiday-ready while avoiding unnecessary stress, chaos, and last-minute surprises.
- Start With a Winter Home Checkup
Before the decorations go up, it’s smart to look at your home the same way a home inspector would. This doesn’t mean you need to climb onto the roof or pull out a toolbag—just take a few minutes to look over the basics:
- Check exterior doors and windows for drafts and air leaks.
- Inspect gutters to ensure water is draining properly.
- Confirm your heating system is operating safely and efficiently.
- Look for signs of roof issues, like missing shingles or debris buildup.
If you’d prefer a professional evaluation, a seasonal home inspection from Inspected Moore helps identify small issues before they turn into bigger holiday problems.
- Safely Untangle the Christmas Lights
Lights bring the Christmas season to life, but they can also introduce safety risks when damaged, overloaded, or improperly installed.
Before decorating:
- Inspect each string for cracked bulbs or frayed wiring
- Replace indoor/outdoor lights as needed
- Be sure to use only UL approved lights
- Use outdoor-rated extension cords for exterior décor
- Avoid plugging too many items into one outlet
- Keep cords away from walkways and high-traffic areas
A safe home is a stress-free home—and nothing kills Christmas cheer like a tripped breaker (or worse, an electrical hazard).
- Declutter Before You Decorate
One of the simplest ways to reduce holiday stress is clearing space before adding holiday décor. Whether you’re bringing in a tree, hanging garland, or setting up extra seating, decluttering first prevents the home from feeling crowded or chaotic.
Focus on:
- Entryways
- Living rooms
- Dining areas
- Guest bedrooms
- Kitchen counters
A clean and organized home makes decorating easier—and keeps your home feeling peaceful throughout the season.
- Prepare the Kitchen for Holiday Cooking
The kitchen is the heart of the holidays, but it’s also one of the top places where homeowners feel the most stress.
Get ahead by:
- Make sure you have a fire extinguisher on hand that is rated properly and full
- Checking your oven temperature accuracy
- Cleaning your range hood filter
- Ensuring your GFCI outlets work properly
- Organizing spices and pantry items
- Creating fridge and freezer space for holiday meals
These small steps help keep big cooking days running smoothly.
- Get Guest-Ready Without the Last-Minute Rush
If you’re hosting Christmas guests, a few advance tasks can take the pressure off:
- Wash linens and stock guest rooms early
- Set out extra towels, toiletries, and blankets
- Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
- Ensure space heaters are safe—and never used with extension cords
- Make sure walkways and driveways are clear of ice
When the home is guest-ready ahead of time, you can simply enjoy the company without scrambling.
- Schedule a Holiday Season Home Inspection (Optional but Stress-Saving)
A professional home inspection isn’t just for home buyers. Many families schedule seasonal inspections to ensure their home is safe, efficient, and problem-free during the coldest months.
An inspection from Inspected Moore can identify:
- HVAC issues
- Attic ventilation problems
- Electrical hazards
- Insulation gaps
- Moisture concerns or leaks
- Safety issues around fireplaces and chimneys
Knowing everything is in good shape brings peace of mind—something every homeowner deserves during the holidays.
Final Thoughts: Make This Christmas the Most Relaxing One Yet
The Christmas season should be full of warmth, joy, and time with the people who matter most. By preparing your home early, addressing safety concerns, and staying organized, you can enjoy a peaceful and stress-free holiday.
For help getting your home in top shape this season, schedule your winter home inspection at Inspected Moore. A safer home is a happier holiday.
Visit us anytime at www.inspectedmoore.com for expert home inspection services and seasonal homeowner tips.