Operator Packs

Fall home maintenance checklist for homeowners

Typical single-family house. About 4–6 hours total, spread over a few weekends. Skip what doesn't apply.

Outside

• [ ] Clean gutters and downspouts; make sure water drains away from the house (1–2 hr)
• [ ] Look over the roof from the ground for missing or lifted shingles (10 min)
• [ ] Disconnect hoses; shut off and drain outdoor faucets (cold-winter areas) (15 min)
• [ ] Drain and store sprinkler lines, or schedule a blow-out (30 min / vendor)
• [ ] Seal gaps around windows, doors, and pipes with caulk (1 hr)
• [ ] Trim branches touching the roof or siding (30–60 min)
• [ ] Rake leaves off the lawn and away from vents (1 hr)
• [ ] Store patio furniture and grill cover (30 min)

Heating and air

• [ ] Replace furnace filter (5 min) — write the size here: ______
• [ ] Schedule furnace tune-up if not done in 12 months (vendor)
• [ ] Test the thermostat on heat before the first cold night (5 min)
• [ ] Reverse ceiling fans to clockwise (low speed) (5 min)
• [ ] Vacuum floor vents and returns (20 min)

Safety

• [ ] Test smoke and CO alarms; replace batteries (15 min)
• [ ] Check fire extinguisher gauge and date (2 min)
• [ ] Have the chimney inspected before first fire (vendor)
• [ ] Check outdoor lights and replace bulbs (15 min)

Inside

• [ ] Check weatherstripping on doors; replace if you see daylight (20 min)
• [ ] Flush a few gallons from the water heater to clear sediment (30 min)
• [ ] Look under sinks for drips (10 min)
• [ ] Clean the dryer vent line (30 min)
• [ ] Swap screens for storm windows if you have them (30 min)

Get ready for winter

• [ ] Snow shovel, ice melt, and scraper on hand
• [ ] Flashlights and batteries in one known spot

First 90 Days in a House — Short List

• [ ] Find and label the main water shut-off, gas shut-off, and breaker panel
• [ ] Change the locks or rekey
• [ ] Replace all HVAC filters; note the sizes
• [ ] Test every smoke and CO alarm; add missing ones
• [ ] Write down appliance model numbers and ages
• [ ] Start a service log (date, task, cost, who did it)
• [ ] Save contacts for a plumber, electrician, and HVAC company

General guidance only. When in doubt, call a licensed pro.

Related: Home maintenance checklist: monthly, seasonal, yearly · All packs