It’s officially the first day of fall, which means cooler temperatures, changing leaves, and yes… it’s time to start thinking about winter.
Before the snow arrives, fall is a good time to give your home a little attention. A few simple maintenance jobs now can help prevent bigger and more expensive problems once the cold weather hits.
Here’s my fall home maintenance checklist for homeowners across the GTA:
1. Take Care of the Outside
Clean your eavestroughs and downspouts
Leaves and debris can build up quickly in the fall. Make sure your eavestroughs are clear so water can drain properly and doesn’t end up causing leaks, ice buildup, or problems around your foundation.Disconnect your garden hoses
Turn off the water supply to your outdoor faucets, drain the lines if possible, and disconnect your hoses. Frozen water in the pipes can lead to burst pipes and an unpleasant surprise when winter arrives.Check your roof
Take a look for missing, damaged, or curled shingles and check around the flashing. If you notice an issue, it’s much better to deal with it before heavy snow and freezing temperatures arrive.
2. Get Your Home Ready for the Cold
Book your furnace maintenance
If you haven’t had your furnace checked recently, fall is a good time to have it inspected and serviced by a qualified professional before you really need it.Change your furnace filter
A dirty filter can restrict airflow and make your heating system work harder. A clean filter can help with airflow and indoor air quality.Check windows and doors for drafts
Feel around your windows and exterior doors for cold air coming in. Replacing worn weatherstripping or sealing small gaps can help keep the warm air inside and the cold air outside.
3. Don’t Forget Your Home Safety Checks
Test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
With windows closed and heating systems running, make sure your smoke and CO detectors are working properly. Test them and replace batteries if needed.Have your chimney checked
If you have a wood-burning fireplace, consider having your chimney professionally inspected and cleaned before fireplace season gets underway.Get your winter equipment ready
Don’t wait for the first snowstorm to discover your snowblower won’t start! Check your snowblower, shovel, ice melt, and other winter supplies now.
A Little Maintenance Now Can Save You Later
Your home is one of your biggest investments, and regular maintenance is part of protecting it.
You don’t have to do everything in one weekend. Start with the things that need attention now, make a list, and work your way through it before winter arrives.
Happy first day of fall! 🍂
And if you’re thinking about buying, selling, or simply making sure your home is ready for the next season, I’m always happy to help.
From Loan to Home — Your Trusted Path to Ownership.