An Autumn home maintenance checklist for homeowners

Autumn is the best time to prepare your home for colder, wetter and windier weather. A focused check now can uncover blocked rainwater goods, damaged seals, heating faults and small leaks before they become disruptive winter repairs.

What should homeowners check in autumn?

Work methodically around the outside and inside of your home. Note anything that has changed since spring, photograph defects and arrange priority work while conditions are still suitable. Never climb onto a roof or attempt work beyond your competence.

1. Check the roof from a safe position

• Look from ground level for slipped, broken or missing tiles or slates.
• Check visible flashing, ridge tiles, verge details and flat roof edges for movement or damage.
• Look inside the loft for water marks, damp insulation, daylight or staining around chimneys and roof penetrations.
• Arrange a professional inspection if you see damage or cannot assess an area safely.

2. Clear gutters, downpipes and drains

• Remove leaves and debris from accessible gutters, gullies and drainage channels.
• During rainfall, check for overflowing joints, leaks and water running down the wall.
• Confirm downpipes discharge properly and that water flows away from the building.
• Clear leaves from external drains before repeated heavy rain.

3. Inspect walls, windows and doors

• Look for new cracks, loose render, damaged pointing or staining that may indicate persistent water entry.
• Check sealant around windows, doors, service penetrations and external fittings.
• Confirm windows and doors close, latch and lock correctly.
• Keep air bricks and ventilation openings clear rather than sealing them against draughts.

4. Prepare the heating and hot water system

• Run the heating before cold weather arrives and confirm rooms warm as expected.
• Check timers, thermostats and radiator valves operate correctly.
• Arrange boiler or heating appliance servicing in line with the manufacturer's instructions.
• If you use heating oil, visually check the tank, supports and accessible supply line for damage, staining or signs of leakage. Use a competent technician if you have concerns.
• If you use a chimney or flue, arrange cleaning and inspection at an interval suitable for the appliance and fuel.

5. Protect pipes and outside taps

• Check insulation on accessible pipework in lofts, garages and other cold spaces.
• Repair damaged insulation and protect outside taps where appropriate.
• Locate the internal stopcock and make sure household members know where it is.
• Do not apply heat directly to a frozen pipe; seek advice if a pipe freezes or bursts.

6. Test alarms and review household safety

• Test smoke, heat and carbon monoxide alarms in accordance with their instructions.
• Check each alarm's replacement date and replace expired or faulty units.
• Keep exits and escape routes clear.
• Locate the consumer unit and heating isolation controls so they can be reached quickly.

7. Look for condensation, damp and leaks

• Inspect loft corners, window reveals, external wall junctions, cupboards and rooms that are used less often.
• Check beneath sinks and around baths, showers, toilets and appliances for slow leaks.
• Use extractor fans and background ventilation, and avoid blocking permanent vents.
• Investigate recurring mould or damp rather than repeatedly cleaning the surface.

8. Secure the outside of the home

• Trim vegetation that blocks drains, vents or safe access, while checking any restrictions that apply to protected trees or nesting wildlife.
• Secure garden furniture, bins and loose items before storms.
• Check fences, gates, sheds and external lights for damage.
• Make sure paths and entrances remain safe as leaves and frost make surfaces slippery.

Record what you find

Record each check, any defect found, photographs, quotations and completed work. Add servicing dates, invoices and guarantees to your Home Record and set reminders for anything that must be reviewed again. A short, consistent record makes it easier to see whether a crack, leak or patch of damp is changing over time.

Safety: use a competent professional for work involving roofs, chimneys, gas, oil, fixed electrics or anything you cannot access safely.