Fall isn’t just pumpkin spice season — it’s also the perfect time to give your home or rental property some TLC before winter hits. Whether you’re a homeowner or a landlord with multiple units, tackling preventative maintenance now can stop small problems from turning into big, expensive headaches later.
Here’s what you should be looking at this time of year:
1. Dryer Vent Cleaning
This one tops the list for a reason — clogged dryer vents are a leading cause of house fires. (link to our other blog) We recommend having them cleaned at least once a year, and fall is the perfect time.
2. Test Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Check that every smoke and CO detector works properly. Replace old batteries and make sure you have detectors in the right spots. This step is especially important if you own rental units.
3. Plumbing Spot Check
Look under sinks for leaks, check for dripping taps, and listen for running toilets. Even minor plumbing issues can lead to water damage, mold, and higher bills if ignored.
4. Gutter Cleaning & Downspouts
Leaves and debris pile up quickly. Clogged gutters don’t just cause water damage — in winter, leaking seams can create icy patches on walkways, putting tenants and visitors at risk for slips and falls. As winter approaches – clogged gutters can cause water/ice back up resulting in roof leaks.
5. Inspect Weather Stripping & Caulking
Drafts around windows, doors, and garage doors can send your heating bills soaring. Re-seal or replace worn weather stripping and inspect caulking on driveways and walkways to keep water from seeping in and freezing.
6. Prep Furnace & AC
Before the heat kicks on, replace your furnace filter — especially if your AC was running all summer. This improves efficiency, air quality, and lowers utility costs.
7. Tidy Up The Yard
Fallen leaves, branches, and other debris should be cleared away. Not only does it make the property look cared for, but it also reduces hazards and prevents blocked drainage.
Note: If you have a grade entrance door – be sure to check your drain for clogging to avoid water back up into your home
8. Outdoor Faucets & Hose Bibs
A dripping outdoor tap might seem harmless, but if temperatures drop, it can freeze, burst, and cause thousands in water damage. We highly recommend ensuring all outdoor taps are turned off and drained before the first of November to prevent freezing. If possible, upgrade to frost-free hose bibs to avoid burst pipes.
9. Uneven Concrete & Trip Hazards
Take a walk around your property and look for trip hazards or cracked concrete. Freeze-thaw cycles can make these worse, so tackling them now saves money and prevents accidents.
Taking time to knock out these fall maintenance tasks not only keeps your property safe and comfortable but also helps you avoid those surprise winter repair bills. A little attention now goes a long way in protecting your investment, whether it’s your family home or a rental property.
Let Us Handle It: Our Annual Preventative Inspection
Here’s where we tie it all together. For homeowners and landlords, our Annual Preventative Inspection gives you:
· A full walk-through of your property
· A checklist of any issues we find — big or small
· Recommendations for affordable fixes before they turn into major repairs
We don’t just look at the obvious — our years of experience mean we spot issues most people overlook. From a slow drip in a hidden basement pipe to early signs of mold, we’ll find it before it costs you.
Bottom line: Fall is the season to get proactive. A little maintenance now can save you thousands later — and we’re here to make sure nothing slips through the cracks.
Call us today to book your Annual Preventative Inspection and protect your investment before winter hits.