FALL MAINTENANCE CHECKLIST

FALL MAINTENANCE CHECKLIST

•      Check window wells, dry wells and storm drains for debris or blockage.
  
•      Repair any driveway cracks and/or heaved or settled walkways.
  
•      Trim all trees and shrubs, particularly any too close to the house.
  
•      Check (ideally during a rainstorm) that all rainwater drains away from the foundation.
  
•      Clean and put summer furnishings away.
  
•      In areas subject to freezing temperatures, drain and store garden hoses and shut off and drain hose bibs (unless frost-free faucets have been properly installed).
  

•     Check the weathertightness of all exterior surfaces and components.
  
•     Caulk and seal all joints in the siding, around windows and doors.
  
•     Check for deterioration of painted or finished areas. If too late for a full paint job, touch up bare wood surfaces with a primer and at least one finish coat.
  
•     Check and seal any foundation cracks.
  
•     Repair or improve weatherstripping at exterior doors and windows as needed.
  
•     Reset storms and screens where required. Check window sills for signs of water damage.
  
•     Look for any signs of insect or pest activity, particularly at the foundation areas and any wood components close to the ground.
  
•     Check stairs and rails for condition and sturdiness.
  
•     Make sure shrubs or mulch does not block any air intake or exhaust vents for heating or ventilation systems.
  
•     Check for damage to lighting fixtures. Test Ground-Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) receptacles using the built-in test button. 
  

•     Check for loose, damaged or missing roofing.
  
•     Check eave areas for signs of moisture build-up or damage.
  
•     Check the condition of the chimney and roof vents.
  
•     Check flashings for signs of lifting or damage and repair or seal as needed.
  
•     Check and clean all gutters (eavestroughs) and downspouts.
  

•     Check for signs of roof leakage, particularly at chimneys, vents and valley areas
  
•     Check ventilation openings for nests or other blockage.
  
•     Check the position and condition of insulation for uniform coverage.
  
•     Look for any signs of excessive moisture buildup, such as mildew or discoloration on the underside of the roof.
  

•    Check all areas for signs of roof or plumbing leakage.
  
•    Have any fireplaces or wood stoves and flues checked and professionally cleaned.
  
•    Reset automatic timers for the change in daylight hours.
  
•    Check all smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Replace batteries if over a year old. Replace units over seven years old.
  
•    Test Ground-Fault Circuit-Interrupters (GFCI) in bathroom and kitchen areas.
  
•    Clean or vacuum radiators or air distribution and return grilles.
  

•    Clean all elements of the cooling system.
  
•    Remove (or winterize) room air conditioners. Check window sill areas for water damage.
  
•    Follow manufacturer instructions for the start-up maintenance of your heating system.
  
•    Change or clean heating system filters on warm air systems (now and regularly).
  
•    Check heating and cooling systems for any evidence of water leaks.
  
•    Check condensate drains and pumps on heating and cooling equipment for any signs of blockage.
  
•    Clean and test the humidifier, if present,
  
•    Check the heat recovery ventilator filters and ductwork, if present,
  
•    Have your heating and cooling systems serviced annually by a qualified serviceperson to keep them functioning properly and efficiently.
  

•    Drain or insulate water lines that are subject to freezing.
  
•    Check the condition and temperature setting of the water heater. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for the temperature setting.
  
•    Check the plumbing system and fixtures for any evidence of water leaks or blocked drains.
  
•    Confirm proper operation of any sump pumps and free flow of water from the drain line.