Fall Home Maintenance Checklist: Prevent Seasonal Risks and Protect Your Insurance Coverage
As the leaves change and cooler weather sets in, fall is the perfect season to prepare your home for the months ahead. Beyond keeping your property in good condition, regular upkeep helps prevent claims, reduces risks, and ensures your insurance coverage works as it should.
At Ebensburg Insurance, we know that small maintenance steps taken in October can save homeowners thousands down the road. Use this fall home maintenance checklist to keep your home safe, efficient, and protected this season.
1. Inspect Your Roof and Gutters
Fall storms, wind, and falling leaves can put your roof and gutters to the test.
Look for missing or damaged shingles.
Clear gutters and downspouts to prevent water backup.
Check for leaks around flashing and skylights.
Why it matters: Roof damage and clogged gutters are common causes of water damage, a top insurance claim for homeowners.
2. Seal Windows and Doors
Drafty windows and doors let heat escape, raising energy bills and creating condensation issues.
Re-caulk or add weather stripping around windows and doors.
Inspect for cracks or gaps that pests could enter.
Why it matters: Sealing up drafts prevents both structural damage and higher heating costs.
For additional guidance, the U.S. Department of Energy provides easy weatherization tips to improve your home’s energy efficiency.
3. Service Your Heating System and Chimney
As temperatures drop, your heating system and fireplace become essentials.
Have your furnace inspected and filters replaced.
Schedule a chimney cleaning to remove creosote buildup.
Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
Why it matters: Heating equipment is one of the top causes of house fires. Regular servicing helps protect your home and family.
The National Fire Protection Association offers great tips on preventing heating-related fires at home.
4. Clean Up the Yard and Outdoor Spaces
Don’t leave fall debris behind before winter arrives.
Rake leaves to prevent lawn damage and slippery walkways.
Trim back trees and branches near your home or power lines.
Store hoses and shut off outdoor faucets to avoid frozen pipes.
Why it matters: Yard maintenance reduces liability risks (like slips and falls) and prevents costly plumbing issues.
5. Prepare for Storms and Emergencies
Autumn can bring unpredictable weather.
Stock up on emergency supplies like flashlights, batteries, and blankets.
Review your family’s emergency plan.
Safely store outdoor furniture and décor that could become projectiles in high winds.
Why it matters: Being proactive helps protect your property and keeps your family safe during unexpected storms.
You can also visit Ready.gov for a full emergency preparedness checklist to keep your family safe during fall storms.
6. Review Your Homeowners Insurance
Even with the best prevention, accidents still happen. Fall is a great time to:
Update your policy if you’ve made renovations or upgrades.
Ask about endorsements for additional protection (like sewer backup or sump pump coverage).
Why it matters: Keeping your policy up to date ensures you’re not underinsured when you need coverage most.
Conclusion
Fall is more than pumpkin spice and crisp mornings, it’s also a critical time to prepare your home for the challenges of winter. By following this fall home maintenance checklist, you’ll reduce risks, prevent claims, and enjoy peace of mind knowing your home is ready for the season ahead.
Want to make sure your homeowners insurance matches your seasonal needs? Contact Ebensburg Insurance today to schedule a policy review and stay protected year-round.
