Fall is upon us, which means it’s time for homeowners to make sure their homes are up to par for the winter ahead. Here are some items for fall home maintenance checklists.

1. Inspect the Roof

Check the roof or hire a professional to look for damage, loose shingles, missing tiles and other leaks. Any issues with the roof could lead to major problems once the weather starts getting colder and winter precipitation begins falling.

2. Clean the Gutters

Clean leaves, dirt, twigs and debris from the home’s gutters. Don’t forget to clean the downspouts, too! Clogs in these places can cause water to back up, leading to eventual water damage and damage to the roof, trim and siding.

3. Seal Air Leaks

Make sure leaky doors and windows are sealed before temperatures begin to drop. Use weatherstripping to keep the cold air out and the warm air in. A door sweep at the bottom of doors can also prevent drafty entrances.

4. Have the Furnace Inspected

Make sure the furnace is running safely and smoothly this fall and winter. Have a professional clean and inspect it for a warm home that’s also safe and energy efficient.

5. Clean up Landscaping

Rake or mulch leaves to avoid damaging the lawn. It’s important to also trim tree branches, as they can pose a danger to both people and the house during icy and snowy winter storms. Fall is also a good time to fertilize the grass for optimal growth come spring.

6. Store Away Equipment

While in the yard, clean the lawn mower and remove any remaining fuel before storing it away until next year. Turn off faucets and store away hoses. It’s probably also time to locate snow shovels, too.

7. Clean the Chimney

A fireplace and chimney are great for warming up during the cold months, but it’s vital that they are cleaned and inspected before starting any fires. A professional can clean and check for blockages, gas line issues, leaks and other problems that could cause accidental fires and other safety threats.

8. Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Whether or not there are fireplaces in the home, this is a task that should be completed all year round. Test the detectors to make sure they work and replace the batteries if necessary.