The Essential Fall Home Maintenance List

Fall is officially here—and before winter settles in, a little proactive maintenance can save you from pricey surprises later. I know a Saturday at the pumpkin patch (or on the couch watching football) is more fun than a to-do list, but consistent upkeep preserves your home’s value and helps prevent avoidable damage. Translation: more money in your pocket.

Fall is the sweet spot between summer heat and winter freezes, which makes it ideal for tackling projects that are faster, safer, and often cheaper to handle now. Take a look at your calendar and schedule a few of these items over the next several weeks.

A few quick notes

• Condo owners: You may still be responsible for in-unit systems (HVAC, dryer vent, water heater). Associations vary—double-check your docs and keep the in-unit tips below in mind.
• DIY vs. pro: Some tasks are simple DIY; others are worth a service contract (HVAC, chimney, pest control). If you need vetted vendors, I’m happy to share my contractor list.

Get organized (so it actually gets done)

Create a simple maintenance binder or use a home-maintenance app to track what you’ve done and what’s next. Store dates, costs, contractor contacts, warranties, model/serial numbers, and receipts. Set reminders—you’ll thank yourself in February.

Your Fall To-Do List

Doors, Windows & Attic (comfort + energy savings)

• Add or replace weather-stripping around doors and windows.
• Caulk gaps where cold air gets in; check around trim and penetrations.
• If you use one, make sure your storm door is sealing properly.
• Consider clear window-well covers to keep basement wells dry.
• Verify attic insulation levels; air-seal before adding insulation.
• Give windows a final clean while it’s still warm enough.

Chimney & Fireplace (safety first)

• Hire a CSIA-certified sweep to inspect and clean the chimney.
• Test the damper; keep it closed when not in use, open before lighting.
• Address loose bricks/mortar promptly to prevent water damage.
• Ensure appliances vented to the chimney (e.g., gas water heater/furnace) are properly lined.
• Install a cap/screen to keep out critters.
• Store firewood away from the house.
• Considering a gas insert? It’s efficient and low-maintenance if you already have a gas line.

Furnace, Ducts, AC & Laundry (efficiency + air quality)

• Schedule HVAC service to clean/inspect the furnace or heat pump; check your whole-house humidifier if you have one.
• Change filters monthly (or per manufacturer guidance).
• Winterize the A/C: drain condensate lines and shut the outdoor service disconnect if applicable (your HVAC pro can do this).
• Inspect ducts for leaks and insulate runs in unconditioned spaces.
• Remove and store window A/C units.
• Dryer vent: vacuum the duct from inside and the exterior hood—do this every six months.
• Clean and disinfect any portable humidifiers.

Thermostat & Detectors (smart savings + safety)

• Install/use a programmable or smart thermostat to lower temps when you’re away or sleeping.
• Never set the heat below 55°F to protect pipes.
• Test smoke and CO detectors and replace batteries (or install 10-year sealed units where allowed).

Exterior & Water Management (small fixes, big payoff)

• Clean gutters and downspouts—more than once if you have heavy leaf drop. Confirm downspouts discharge well away from the foundation and on a downslope.
• During a rain, spot-check drainage (including yard/areaway drains common in DC) to catch clogs early.
• Inspect the roof (shingles, flashing, vents, chimney) and seal as needed.
• Seal foundation cracks to block moisture and mice.
• Winterize hose bibs/irrigation: shut interior valves, drain lines, and install insulated covers.
• Driveway and walkways: seal cracks before freeze-thaw cycles make them worse.
• If you have a sump pump, lift the float to confirm it kicks on; consider a battery backup.

Yard & Garden (prep now, enjoy later)

• Rake leaves regularly or mulch-mow; check local leaf collection schedules.
• Pull dead annuals, weed beds, and prune shrubs as appropriate.
• Cut back perennials and divide/transplant where needed.
• Aerate, fertilize, and overseed lawns in early fall.
• Plant spring bulbs now; perennials are the lower-maintenance win long-term.
• Trim branches away from the house and wires—hire a pro for anything near utilities.

Before the first freeze

• Drain hoses and store them inside.
• Clean/cover outdoor furniture or move it indoors.
• Protect tender plants and stake young trees/shrubs.

Power Outages & Severe Weather (be ready)

• Stock accessible flashlights, batteries, and/or battery-operated candles.
• Keep extra water, nonperishables (pets too), blankets, and needed medications on hand.
• Buy a snow shovel and pet-safe ice melt before the first storm.
• Save your utility numbers and sign up for local outage/weather alerts.

Want a printable checklist to make this easier? Download my Fall Home Maintenance Checklist and check items off as you go—make notes for what to tackle next season so nothing lingers too long.

Questions about what’s DIY vs. pro—or need contractor recommendations? I’m happy to help get you set up for a low-stress winter.