Fall is the perfect season to tackle general home maintenance projects because the weather is generally dry and temperatures are moderate. Before you start your seasonal home maintenance checklist, examine both the interior and exterior of your home. Most of these home maintenance items can be accomplished without the help of a professional, but it’s always better to be safe and call for assistance if a home improvement project is beyond your abilities.

• Aerate the lawn

• Have the forced-air heating system inspected by a professional. Tip: Schedule an inspection in late summer or early fall before the heating season begins
• Check fireplace for damage or hazards, and clean fireplace flues
• Seal cracks and gaps in windows and doors with caulk or weather stripping; replace if necessary
• Consider swapping old, drafty windows for more energy-efficient models
• Inspect roofing for missing, loose, or damaged shingles and leaks
• Remove leaves and debris from gutters and downspouts
• Mend cracks and gaps in the driveway and walkway
• Have fireplace professionally inspected
• Replace the batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Install a smoke detector on every floor of your home, including the basement
• Clean the carpets before the holidays
• Inspect exterior door hardware; fix squeaky handles and loose locks
• Check that indoor and outdoor air vents are not blocked