Fall Home Maintenance Tips

Fall is an excellent time to prep your home indoors and out. This prep work may include maintenance to prevent future issues or hiring professionals for more complicated home-based jobs. You may want to ensure these areas are taken care of before California temperatures drop a bit.
Fall home

Inside Your Home

Many homeowners focus on readying their homes for colder weather by taking care of items outside. However, inside maintenance is also critical for ensuring you are ready for colder weather. These are three essential maintenance tasks every homeowner should do during the fall season:

1. Test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Check smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and replace any batteries to ensure they work correctly. It’s also an excellent time to make sure any first aid kits are stocked and fire extinguishers are in good working condition.

2. Change your furnace filters. A dirty furnace filter can place stress on your furnace and cause it not to work as efficiently as possible. Before temperatures drop and you switch on the heat, be sure to check and change your furnace’s filters. Additionally, it’s advisable to have your furnace professionally inspected on an annual basis.

3. Check your windows and doors. Fall is a great time to walk through your home and check your windows and doors for drafts. Where needed, install weather stripping to stop cold air from entering—or warm air from escaping.

These are just a few essential items that can make your home function better, but many other things can also be beneficial to handle as part of your fall home maintenance, including some crucial items outside your home.

Outside Your Home

Californians may experience colder weather beginning in the fall. Now is an ideal time to walk around your property and ensure your home is ready for changing temperatures by taking care of some essential upkeep:

1. Check your roof for damage. Check your roof for loose, damaged or missing shingles, as a damaged roof could lead to water leaks in your home. This task may require a professional, so schedule any needed repairs.

2. Clean your downspouts and gutters. Clear leaves and debris to help prevent flooding around your home’s foundation. In addition, you may want professional gutter guards installed to avoid more buildup.

3. Prepare your lawn. If necessary, prepare your property for spring by aerating it, raking leaves, and fertilizing it. Check with your local village for its rules on fall cleanup, specifically disposing of leaves and lawn debris.

These three items—especially your roof—are critical maintenance areas since California’s wet season is in late fall, and many unprepared homeowners may face damage from the rainfall. It’s also vital to ensure your home insurance is up-to-date, and we can help.

Ensure You Have Protection

Now is a great time to ensure your home insurance policy provides you with sufficient protection—or make any needed policy changes. RCU Insurance Services provides California homeowners with coverage for their homes and belongings. We can review your current home coverage to ensure you have the necessary protection.

This blog is intended for informational and educational use only. It is not exhaustive and should not be construed as legal advice. Please contact your insurance professional for further information.