As the weather cools and the days get shorter, early fall is the ideal time to tackle important home maintenance tasks. Whether you're planning to sell soon, recently bought a home, or just want to keep things running smoothly, this fall checklist will help you prep your home for the colder months ahead — and prevent costly repairs down the road.
✅ 1. Clean Your Gutters & Downspouts
Falling leaves and debris can clog your gutters, causing water to back up and damage your roof or foundation. Clean them out and make sure water flows away from the home properly.
Pro Tip: Install gutter guards to reduce buildup and future maintenance.
✅ 2. Inspect Your Roof
Look for missing or damaged shingles, signs of leaks, or soft spots. Addressing small issues now can prevent major (and expensive) winter damage.
✅ 3. Seal Windows & Doors
Drafts are a top cause of energy loss in cooler months. Apply weatherstripping or caulk around windows and doors to keep warm air in — and lower your heating bills.
✅ 4. Schedule an HVAC Check-Up
Before you fire up the heat, have your furnace or heat pump serviced. A professional can ensure your system is running efficiently and safely.
Bonus Tip: Change your filters monthly for better air quality and system longevity.
✅ 5. Check Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Test your alarms and replace batteries. Heating systems, fireplaces, and closed windows increase the risk of indoor hazards during colder months.
✅ 6. Drain & Store Outdoor Hoses
Disconnect hoses and shut off outdoor water valves to prevent freezing and pipe damage.
✅ 7. Inspect the Chimney & Fireplace
If you plan to use your fireplace, schedule a chimney cleaning and inspection. Creosote buildup is a major fire hazard.
✅ 8. Reverse Ceiling Fans
Set your ceiling fans to spin clockwise at a low speed to circulate warm air back into the room — a simple trick to make your home feel cozier.
✅ 9. Fertilize the Lawn
Early fall is the best time to fertilize your lawn, reseed bare patches, and prepare your yard for a lush spring return.
✅ 10. Check Exterior Paint & Siding
Look for peeling paint or cracks in siding that could worsen with cold, wet weather. Touch-ups now can prevent moisture from getting in.
✅ 11. Clean & Store Outdoor Furniture
Give your patio furniture a good cleaning and store or cover it to extend its life.
✅ 12. Stock Up on Winter Supplies
Don’t wait for the first frost to realize you're out of salt or snow shovels. Early fall is a great time to check your inventory and prep for storms.
🍁 Final Thoughts
Tackling these simple home maintenance tasks in early fall can save you money, boost your home's value, and keep things running smoothly through the colder months.
If you're thinking about selling this fall or winter, a well-maintained home stands out in any market. Feel free to reach out — I'd be happy to offer personalized tips or a pre-listing walk-through.
Need help preparing your home for fall?
Let’s connect — I can recommend trusted local contractors and seasonal staging tips to make your home shine.
