Fall Home Maintenance Tips to Keep Your Home in Top Shape

As the days get shorter and the temperatures begin to drop, fall is the perfect season to give your home some extra care. Preparing now not only keeps your home cozy and comfortable through the cooler months but also helps prevent costly repairs down the line. We’ve put together a complete fall home maintenance checklist, inside and out, so you can head into the season worry-free.

Exterior Maintenance

1. Clean Gutters and Downspouts

Falling leaves are beautiful, until they clog your gutters. Regularly clearing them prevents water damage, roof leaks, and foundation issues.

2. Check Windows and Doors

Inspect for cracks, drafts, or worn weather stripping. Adding caulking or replacing seals keeps your home warm and reduces energy bills.

3. Fertilize Your Lawn

Feeding your lawn in the fall helps it stay healthy through winter and bounce back lush and green in spring.

4. Trim Shrubs and Trees

Overhanging branches can cause damage during storms. Keep landscaping neat and clear to protect your roof and siding.

5. Inspect Dryer Vent

Lint buildup is a fire hazard. Clean and inspect the vent to ensure it’s working efficiently.

6. Check the Roof, Attic, and Crawlspace

Look for missing shingles, leaks, or signs of moisture. Early detection can save you from major water damage.

7. Remove Outdoor Hoses and Protect Faucets

Disconnect hoses, drain them, and insulate exterior pipes and faucets to prevent freezing and burst pipes.

Interior Maintenance

1. Test Smoke Detectors and Fire Extinguishers

With fireplaces and heaters in use, fall is a critical time to check safety devices. Replace batteries and ensure extinguishers are up-to-date.

2. Repair Windows and Doors

Loose or damaged frames let in drafts. Fixing them now improves energy efficiency and comfort.

3. Inspect HVAC Systems

Replace filters and schedule a professional tune-up if needed. A well-maintained system runs more efficiently and lasts longer.

4. Seal Drafts Around Windows and Doors

Add caulking or weather stripping to stop cold air from sneaking in and warm air from escaping.

5. Clean Air Ducts

Removing dust and debris improves air quality and system efficiency — especially helpful for allergy sufferers.

6. Inspect Plumbing

Ensure pipes are insulated and protected from colder temperatures to avoid bursts or leaks.

7. Clean Chimney and Fireplace

If you’re planning cozy nights by the fire, schedule a chimney sweep. This reduces the risk of fire hazards from soot and creosote buildup.

8. Deep Clean Baseboards and Hidden Spots

Fall is a great time for those “out of sight, out of mind” cleaning tasks. Baseboards, vents, and ceiling fans can all use extra attention.

9. Declutter and Donate

Before the holidays, go through closets and storage spaces. Donate clothes, household items, or anything you no longer use, you’ll head into the season lighter and more organized.

Fall is about creating a warm, welcoming home, but it’s also the ideal season to tackle maintenance that ensures your property stays safe and efficient. Whether it’s raking leaves outside or checking smoke detectors inside, these small steps add up to big savings and peace of mind.

Need help finding trusted professionals for HVAC, plumbing, or landscaping? We work with great local vendors and would be happy to connect you. Reach out anytime, your home deserves the best care all season long.