Fall Home Prep: 7 Critical Areas to Watch Around Your Home

The crisp air and changing leaves are beautiful, but they also signal a critical window for homeowners. Now is the time to prepare your home for the cold, wind, and moisture of the coming winter. Taking action now can prevent small issues from turning into expensive, complex repairs when the weather is at its worst.

At MEJARO Inspection Services, we see exactly where problems start. Here is a guide to the most important areas to inspect and address around your house this time of year.

1. The Roof and Gutter System

Your roof and gutters are your home's primary defense against water damage.

Roof Inspection: Look for missing, cracked, or loose shingles. High winds and summer storms may have caused subtle damage. A compromised roof can lead to interior leaks once winter precipitation begins.
Clean the Gutters: Fall leaves are the number one culprit for gutter clogs. Clogged gutters prevent water from draining properly, leading to water pooling against your roofline. This can cause fascia rot, foundation issues, and the dreaded ice dams once freezing temperatures hit. Ensure all downspouts are clear and directing water at least three feet away from the foundation.

2. Check Your HVAC and Chimney

Before you rely on your heating system for months, ensure it is operating safely and efficiently.

Furnace/HVAC Tune-Up: Schedule a professional inspection and tune-up for your furnace or heating system. A technician can check for potential issues, worn parts, and hazardous carbon monoxide leaks, ensuring your system runs safely and efficiently.
Change Air Filters: A clean filter allows your furnace to work less, saving energy and improving indoor air quality. Replace it at the start of the heating season.
Inspect the Chimney and Fireplace: If you plan to use your fireplace, hire a professional chimney sweep to clean and inspect the flue. This removes creosote buildup, which is a significant fire hazard.

3. Seal and Insulate for Efficiency

Preventing drafts is key to comfort and lower energy bills.

Seal Air Leaks: Grab a tube of caulk and exterior-grade weatherstripping. Check for gaps around windows, doors, and where utility lines enter the house. Sealing these areas keeps the warm air in and the cold air (and pests) out.
Check Insulation: Consider your attic. Ensuring proper insulation levels is one of the most effective ways to lower your heating costs.

4. Winterize Outdoor Plumbing

Frozen pipes are one of the most destructive and costly winter emergencies a homeowner can face.

Drain Faucets and Hoses: Disconnect all garden hoses and store them inside. Turn off the water supply to all exterior hose bibs (spigots) if your home has a dedicated shut-off valve. Then, open the spigot to drain any remaining water from the line. Insulating foam faucet covers are a great added layer of protection.
Winterize Irrigation Systems: If you have an in-ground sprinkler system, you should have it professionally "blown out" to remove all water from the lines before the first hard freeze.

5. Yard and Landscaping

Maintenance outside the house protects the structure itself.

Trim Branches: Cut back any tree branches that are dead or hanging over your roof and power lines. Ice and snow buildup can cause these branches to break and fall, leading to major damage.
Grade and Drainage: Ensure the ground around your foundation is sloped away from the house to direct rainwater runoff away from the basement or crawl space.

6. Test Safety Devices

With the home sealed up for winter and heating systems running, fire safety becomes even more critical.

Smoke and CO Detectors: Test all smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Replace the batteries in every unit. Check the manufacturing date—if a smoke alarm is more than 10 years old, it should be replaced entirely.

Don't Guess, Get an Expert Opinion.

A seasonal check is a great start, but a professional home inspection from MEJARO Inspection Services goes far deeper. We can identify subtle roof damage, insulation deficiencies, and potential heating system hazards that might be missed during a DIY walkthrough.

Book your Fall Maintenance Inspection today to ensure your home is safe, energy-efficient, and ready to take on whatever winter brings!