It’s Fall! Time for a Property Checkup

As the leaves start to change colors and the air turns crisper, it's the perfect time to prepare your home for the upcoming fall season. Fall home maintenance is essential to keep your property in top shape, ensure energy efficiency, and create a warm and cozy atmosphere. In this blog post, we've put together a comprehensive fall home maintenance checklist to help you get your home ready for autumn.

**Exterior Home Maintenance:**

1. **Clean Gutters and Downspouts:** Remove debris and leaves from your gutters to prevent clogs, which can lead to water damage.

2. **Inspect Roof:** Check for missing or damaged shingles and arrange for repairs if necessary to avoid leaks during fall rains.

3. **Seal Cracks and Gaps:** Seal any gaps in the exterior of your home, including around windows and doors, to prevent drafts and heat loss.

4. **Trim Trees and Bushes:** Trim branches away from your home and clear dead vegetation from your yard to prevent potential hazards during storms.

5. **Store Outdoor Furniture:** Clean and store outdoor furniture and equipment to protect them from harsh weather.

**Interior Home Maintenance:**

6. **Heating System Inspection:** Schedule a professional inspection of your heating system to ensure it's in working order for the colder months.

7. **Check for Drafts:** Seal gaps around windows and doors with weatherstripping and consider using draft stoppers.

8. **Inspect Chimney and Fireplace:** If you have a fireplace, have it professionally inspected and cleaned to ensure safe use.

9. **Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors:** Ensure all detectors are working and replace batteries if needed.

10. **Reverse Ceiling Fans:** Change the direction of your ceiling fans to clockwise, which will help distribute warm air more effectively.

11. **Clean Air Ducts and Vents:** Have your air ducts and vents cleaned to improve air quality and heating efficiency.

**Yard and Lawn Maintenance:**

12. **Lawn Care:** Aerate your lawn, reseed any bare patches, and apply fertilizer to promote healthy growth.

13. **Rake Leaves:** Regularly rake and remove fallen leaves to prevent them from suffocating your grass and garden.

14. **Garden Prep:** Trim and cut back perennials, and plant fall bulbs for next year's blooms.

15. **Drain and Store Garden Hoses:** Disconnect hoses, drain water from them, and store them in a dry place.

**Safety and Security:**

16. **Check Exterior Lighting:** Ensure that outdoor lights, especially those near entrances, are functioning correctly for safety.

17. **Check Fire Extinguishers:** Make sure your fire extinguishers are in good condition and easily accessible.

18. **Emergency Kit:** Assemble or update your emergency kit, including essentials like flashlights, batteries, and non-perishable food.

**Seasonal Home Decor:**

19. **Decorate for Fall:** Add some cozy and inviting fall decorations like wreaths, pumpkins, and seasonal candles.

20. **Prepare for Holidays:** If you plan to host holiday gatherings, make a checklist for home decorations, table settings, and meal planning.

With this fall home maintenance checklist, you can ensure that your home is cozy, safe, and ready for the autumn season. Regular maintenance not only enhances your home's curb appeal but also contributes to its longevity and energy efficiency. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your tools, and get your home ready to embrace the beauty and warmth of fall. Happy autumn!