Fall Maintenance
Create a plan of action in maintaining your dwelling. Here are some typical tasks to to tackle for the fall and early winter:
# Inspect all driveways, walkways, decks, porches, and landscape components for evidence of deterioration, movement, or safety hazards.
# Look at overhead wires coming to the house. They should be secure and clear of trees or other obstructions.
# Have chimneys inspected and cleaned. Ensure that rain caps and vermin screens are secure.
# Clean wood decks and reseal as needed.
# Check the grade of the land around the house: it should encourage water to flow away from the foundation.
# Turn off the shut-off valve on your outdoor water pipes before the first freeze and remove outside hoses and store away.
# Survey the basement and/or crawl space walls for evidence of moisture seepage.
# Look for obvious gaps around doors and windows and replace worn weather-stripping and caulking.
# Have the heating, cooling, and water heater systems cleaned and serviced.
# Review the location of all of the shut-off valves in your home with all your family members so you’ll be prepared for emergencies.
# Reset automatic light timers for the longer nights ahead.
# Replace smoke detector batteries.
# Create a plan in the event of a fire in your home. Ensure that there is an operable window or door in every room of the house.