With cooler weather rolling in and the leaves starting to pile up, it’s officially that time of year again – fall maintenance season.

Now, we know it’s not the most exciting part of autumn (we’d all rather be sipping cider or enjoying a fall fair), but taking care of a few small things now can help you avoid a major headache later – like a home insurance claim you didn’t see coming. So, we put together this quick checklist of 10 easy fall tasks that can help protect your home, your peace of mind, and your wallet.

Let’s dive in!

1. Clean Out the Gutters

Why it matters: Blocked gutters cause water to overflow, which can damage your roof, siding, foundation, or lead to ice dams in the winter.

What to do:

• Remove leaves, twigs, and debris
• Make sure downspouts direct water at least 3-4 feet away from the foundation
• Repair sagging or loose sections

Target time: Early-to-mid fall

2. Take a Look at Your Roof

Why it matters: Loose or missing shingles can let water seep in. Damaged flashing around chimneys or vents allow leaks. Frozen precipitation worsens small problems.

What to do:

• Walk around and inspect the roof from the ground (or hire a pro for a safer close-up)
• Look for curling, broken or missing shingles
• Inspect flashing, vents, and skylights for looseness or corrosion

Target time: Fall, before deep freeze

3. Check Windows & Doors for Drafts

Why it matters: Gaps let gold air (or water) in and warm air out. They can also allow moisture that causes mould, wood decay or rot, all of which may not be covered under some policies.

What to do:

• Inspect weather stripping and door sweeps
• Replace cracked or missing caulking
• Use storm windows or glass panels where applicable

Target time: As leaves fall

4. Service Your HVAC & Furnace Systems

Why it matters: As winter nears, your heating systems will be working harder. Operating them without preventable maintenance risks breakdown, fire hazards, or carbon monoxide leaks.

What to do:

• Replace furnace filters
• Schedule a professional tune-up for your furnace or heat pumps
• Inspect and clean ducts and vents

Target time: Before cold season

5. Inspect Your Fireplace, Chimney & Flue

Why it matters: Creosote build-up, blockages, or damaged chimney liners cause chimney fires. Rain entering through deteriorated chimney tops or cracks can damage masonry or attic insulation.

What to do:

• Clean out ashes, check for soot or creosote build up
• Have a chimney sweep inspect and clean the flue
• Look for cracks and missing mortar; waterproof chimney crown if needed

Target time: Before first fire of the season

6. Ensure Proper Insulation & Ventilation

Why it matters: Poor insulation in attic or crawl-spaces leads to heat loss, ice dams, and mould growth. Damp, poorly ventilated spaces also lead to structural and health issues.

What to do:

• Check attic insulation levels: add more if needed
• Make sure vents (ridge vents, soffits) are clear and working
• Seal attic bypasses (holes where warm air leaks into attic)

Target time: Mid-to-late fall

7. Shut off & Drain

Why it matters: If hoses or irrigation systems stay connected in freezing weather, water can freeze, expand, and burst pipes or spigots. That damage often leads to insurance claims.

What to do:

• Turn off external water supply and disconnect hose attachments
• Drain sprinkler systems and garden hoses
• Insulate exposed pipes to prevent freezing

Target time: As temps approach freezing

8. Trim Trees & Prune Branches Near Structures

Why it matters: Falling branches can damage your roof, siding, power lines, or windows, especially under snow or wind. Overhanging dead limbs are big risks.

What to do:

• Remove dead or weak branches
• Prune branches touching or close to your roof or chimney
• Keep trees a safe distance from power lines

Target time: Before winter storms

9. Test Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detectors and Inspect Fire Safety Gear

Why it matters: Early detection saves lives, prevents damage, and usually is a requirement under your policy. Fire extinguishers or escape ladders neglected – not helpful when you need them.

What to do:

• Replace batteries in all detectors; test them
• Inspect any fire extinguishers – check expiry, pressure gauge, etc.
• Ensure escape ladders (if second-story windows) are still accessible and in good shape

Target time: Once before heating season begins

10. Review Your Home’s Insurance Coverage & Documentation

Why it matters: Sometimes it’s not just about preventing damage – it’s about making sure you’re covered if damage still occurs. Changes in home value, renovations, or acquiring expensive items may affect what coverage you need.

What to do:

• Take photos of your home interior & exterior – recent condition
• Inventory valuables, keep receipts
• Meet with your broker to ensure your policy and deductibles are still appropriate and you’re not missing optimal coverages

Target time: Once per year, around fall

Fall is the smart time to get ahead. By doing these maintenance tasks now – before snow, ice, freezing temperatures, or winter storms – you can avoid many of the common causes of home insurance claims.

Need a hand? We’re not just here when things to wrong – we’re here to help you avoid those “oh no” moments in the first place. If you’d like to go over your coverage or aren’t sure what’s included in your current polity, reach out to your broker – we’ll walk you thought it.

In the meantime, happy fall — and here’s to staying warm, dry, and claim-free!