Cozy into Fall- Home Maintenance Checklist

Fall is around the corner, and that means cooler mornings, shorter days, and a perfect excuse to cozy up your home while prepping it for the season ahead. A little work now saves you big headaches later — and keeps your home safe, efficient, and welcoming.

Here are 12 smart (and simple!) things to tackle this month:

1. Clean the Gutters

A simple step that keeps rain flowing where it should and prevents costly water damage.

2. Tune Up Summer Lawn Tools

"Before putting them away, give trimmers, blowers, and mowers a quick tune-up so they’ll be ready when you need them next year."

3. Change the Oil in Your Lawnmower

Fresh oil helps extend the life of your mower — a small task now that saves big headaches later.

4. Service Your HVAC System

Cool mornings mean furnace season is coming. An inspection keeps your system efficient and ready for the temperature drop.

5. Inspect Fire Extinguishers

A quick check ensures your family’s safety in case of an emergency.

6. Sweep the Garage + Clean the Door Tracks

Clearing dirt and debris keeps your garage doors running smoothly and helps your space feel less cluttered.

7. Inspect the Chimney

Check for loose flashing or missing mortar before the first fire of the season.

8. Split and Stack Firewood

Cut wood to fit your fireplace and stack it neatly away from the house to keep bugs at bay.

9. Seal Windows

Feel for drafts and make sure seals are tight — this will save on heating costs as temps drop.

10. Add Seasonal Color with Mums or Sunflowers 🌻

Potted plants on the porch bring instant fall charm and brighten up shorter days.

11. Stock Up on Fall Candles

Crisp leaves, apple pie, pumpkin spice — the right scent makes your home feel extra cozy.

12. Set Up a Homework Station

With school back in session, give kids (or yourself!) a designated space for focus and productivity.

A little seasonal upkeep makes a big difference in how your home looks, feels, and functions. Whether it’s safety prep, energy savings, or just adding cozy touches, this fall checklist will help you enjoy the season stress-free.

👉 Want to know what else you can do to boost your home’s value while you’re at it? Reach out! Our team is always here to help with advice, local expertise, and resources tailored to Champaign County living.