Doing a accuracy check for a lathe doesn't take long as long as there is nothing wrong, so I try to check it every time I start a new project. Although I may not do it ever time I try. If I find something off then I don't start until EVERYTHING is checked. This may take several hours, but fixing a problem on a build normally takes much longer and can get expensive.
I don't know if there is a normal time/schedule to check your machine, I would think it would depend on the quality of the lathe. If something stupid like leaving a chuck key in the chuck and turning the lathe on, I would Highly recommend a complete set up and
alignment check before any work is done.
J E CUSTOM