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
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Clean gutters and downspouts:Remove leaves and debris to prevent clogs and ensure water drains away from your home’s foundation.
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Inspect the roof:Look for and repair any broken or missing shingles to prevent leaks, especially before the rainy season begins in November.
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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.
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Store or winterize hoses:Shut off outdoor water faucets, drain hoses, and store them indoors to prevent damage from cold snaps.
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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
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Deep clean and declutter:Use the cooler weather as an opportunity to clean floors, carpets, and other surfaces. Declutter closets and storage areas.
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Wash seasonal items:Wash bedding, blankets, and pillows to freshen them up for the colder months.
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Clean windows and window treatments:Get a head start on deep cleaning by washing windows and cleaning blinds or curtains. Photo courtesy of https://actonadu.com/
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Carnahan Legacy
22552 Burbank Blvd. Woodland Hills, CA 91367
https://CarnahanLegacy.com
Carnahan Property Management
https://carnahanpropmgmt.com/
818.884.1500
Kinsley Carnahan
Broker
818.427.1500
kinsleycarnahan@gmail.com
DRE# 01896119
Tom Carnahan
Owner / Broker
818.421.1200
tomc@carnahanrealty.com
DRE# 00547560
Nancy T. Carnahan
Broker
661.810.5600
nancy@brokerintrust.com
DRE# 01083235
Jon Genender
818.884.1500
jrgenender@gmail.com
Director of Operations, Maintenance, Property Management
DRE# 02101059
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