Your Fall Home Checklist

Is your idea of seasonal home maintenance switching out candle scents? We get it. Nothing says fall more than pumpkin spice. However, the reality is that your home is one of the biggest investments you have so doing regular maintenance is a must.

Following the natural flow of the seasons will help keep on top of the small stuff so your house will continue to serve you well for years to come. Remember you don’t have to kill your weekend to tackle these projects. You can break them up into mini sessions so you can quickly get back to what’s really important this season: watching football, planning your Halloween costume, and picking apples.

Here is a good checklist as we head into the (hopefully) cooler days of Fall:

Have the heating system serviced
Have your fireplace inspected and clean the fireplace flue before use
Clean lint buildup from the clothes dryer exhaust duct, damper, and space under the dryer to prevent fires
Repair or replace caulking and weather stripping around doors, windows, and mechanicals as needed to seal any cracks and gaps
Fertilize and re-seed the lawn
Remove leaves and debris from gutters and downspouts
Trim any tree limbs that are dangerously close to the roof of the house
Winterize pools, in-ground sprinkler systems, and other exterior plumbing in late fall
Clean the interior of major kitchen appliances prior so you are ready for the holidays

Plus, remember some items should be done monthly so be sure to add these to the list too:

Clean or replace your HVAC system filters
Inspect your shower, tub, and sink drains for debris and unclog if necessary
Clear the dishwasher drain and deep clean your dishwasher
Look for any signs of leaks around toilets and sinks
Check grout and caulking in the bathroom to help avoid potential seeping water damage
Clean the garbage disposal
Inspect and test your carbon monoxide and smoke detectors
Check electrical cords for wear and replace as needed