For Southern California, fall house prep focuses on seasonal rain, cooler nights, and routine maintenance: ☔
Clear gutters, clean drains to ensure water flows away from the foundation, and inspect the roof for repairs. 🏠
Indoor tasks include checking for drafts in windows and doors, cleaning HVAC filters, and preparing for cooler evenings by checking insulation and possibly adding blankets or a fire pit. 🕯️🔥
You should also test safety equipment and prepare outdoor furniture and hoses. 🧯🪣
Exterior and drainage
Clean gutters and downspouts: 🪜
Remove leaves and debris to prevent clogs and ensure water drains away from your home’s foundation. 🍂
Inspect the roof: 🏡
Look for and repair any broken or missing shingles to prevent leaks, especially before the rainy season begins in November. 🌧️
Check for proper drainage: 💧
Make sure the grading around your home slopes away from the foundation. Check that sprinkler systems are not spraying directly against your house. 🌿
Store or winterize hoses: 🚿
Shut off outdoor water faucets, drain hoses, and store them indoors to prevent damage from cold snaps. ❄️
Secure outdoor items: 🪑
Put away summer furniture or secure it against wind. Prepare for cooler evenings by adding blankets or a fire pit to your patio. 🔥🧣
Interior and safety
Check for drafts: 🌬️
Seal any gaps around windows and doors with weather stripping to improve energy efficiency.
Clean or replace HVAC filters: 🌡️
A clean filter ensures your heating system runs efficiently when needed.
Test safety devices: 🚨
Check that all smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms are working correctly and replace the batteries if needed. 🔋
Inspect your heating system: 🔧
Have your heating system inspected before the cold weather arrives to ensure it’s in good working order.
Clean your chimney: 🧹
If you have a fireplace, inspect and clean it and the chimney before use. 🪶
General cleaning and organization
Deep clean and declutter: 🧽
Use the cooler weather as an opportunity to clean floors, carpets, and other surfaces. Declutter closets and storage areas. 🧸
Wash seasonal items: 🧺
Wash bedding, blankets, and pillows to freshen them up for the colder months. 🛏️
Clean windows and window treatments: 🪟
Get a head start on deep cleaning by washing windows and cleaning blinds or curtains. 🌤️
Photo courtesy of https://purvesinsurance.com/
Call Richard Collins for all your real estate needs.
Richard Collins
Porter Ranch, CA
Real Estate Agent
818-378-3828
CA DRE# 00649479
Sold@TeamCollins.com
www.TeamCollins.com
https://richcollins.real-estate-blog.com
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