Fall is a great time to enjoy cooler air, football weekends, and pumpkin spice everything—but it’s also prime time to protect your home before winter arrives. A few preventive steps now can save you from costly homeowners insurance claims later.
Here’s your fall maintenance checklist to reduce risk, protect your investment, and keep premiums steady.
1) Clean Gutters & Downspouts
Falling leaves can clog gutters fast, leading to water overflow that seeps into your roof, walls, or foundation.
- Clear gutters and downspouts of debris.
- Make sure water drains at least 5 feet away from your home’s foundation.
- Consider installing gutter guards to cut down on future clogs.
Insurance insight: Water damage from clogged gutters is considered preventable—so it’s typically not covered. Regular cleaning keeps you protected.
2) Inspect Roofs and Flashing
A small roof leak today can become a huge claim tomorrow.
- Check for missing or damaged shingles.
- Inspect flashing around chimneys and vents.
- Schedule a professional roof inspection if your roof is over 10 years old.
Insurance insight: Storm-related roof damage is usually covered, but wear and tear isn’t. Staying ahead of repairs helps preserve coverage.
3) Service Heating Systems and Chimneys
Before temperatures drop:
- Have your HVAC and furnace serviced by a licensed professional.
- Clean chimneys and fireplaces to prevent creosote buildup, a leading cause of house fires.
- Replace furnace filters and test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
A working smoke alarm can cut your risk of dying in a home fire by half—and some insurers even offer discounts for monitored systems.
4) Seal Windows and Doors
Drafts don’t just waste energy—they let in moisture that can damage trim and drywall.
- Caulk window frames and door jambs.
- Add weather stripping where needed.
- Check attic insulation to prevent ice dams later in the winter.
5) Update Your Home Inventory
Fall is a smart time to review and document your belongings before the busy holidays.
- Take photos or videos of each room.
- Save receipts for big-ticket items.
- Store your inventory in a cloud folder or secure app.
If you ever have to file a claim, this documentation speeds up your payout and ensures nothing gets overlooked.
Bottom Line
A weekend of fall maintenance can save you thousands in future claims. Check your gutters, roof, and heating systems, and review your insurance coverage before winter sets in.
👉 Want a quick policy review? Send us your declarations page, and we’ll make sure your coverage matches your home’s current needs.
FAQs
How can maintenance help my insurance?
Preventing claims keeps your record clean, which can help avoid premium increases.
Is water damage from gutters covered?
Not if it’s caused by lack of maintenance – only sudden, accident events are typically covered.
Do I need to tell my insurer about repairs or upgrades?
Yes, especially for roof replacements, major renovations or system upgrades. It ensures your policy reflects your home’s new value.
