The Georgia Fall Home Maintenance Checklist

1) Roof, gutters & drainage (water is enemy #1)

• Clean gutters and downspouts; flush with a hose.

• Ensure downspouts extend 6–10 ft away from the foundation; add splash blocks or extensions.

• Inspect roof flashing (roof-to-wall, chimneys, vents) and replace missing or damaged sections—flashing is your first defense against leaks.

• Trim back limbs; remove debris from valleys and behind chimneys.

2) Exterior & envelope (keep conditioned air in, moisture out)

• Re-caulk window/door trim and penetrations (meter base, hose bibs, cable/AC lines).

• Check weatherstripping on exterior doors and attic access; replace if cracked or loose.

• Touch up paint and seal bare wood to prevent rot.

3) HVAC tune-up (comfort + efficiency)

• Schedule a fall service: check heat mode, clean burners, inspect heat exchanger, and confirm safe CO levels.

• Replace filters; clear the condensate drain; vacuum return grilles.

• Consider a whole-home dehumidifier if indoor RH regularly exceeds 60%.

4) Attic & insulation

• Verify even insulation coverage; spot-fix gaps or compression around can lights and hatch.

• Look for roof leaks (stains on sheathing), improper bath fan venting, and signs of pests.

• Add a gasket or weatherstripping to the attic hatch to cut heat loss.

5) Crawl space & basement (Georgia’s mold hot spots)

• Inspect for standing water, efflorescence, or wood rot.

• Ensure vapor barrier coverage; repair tears and extend to foundation walls.

• Consider encapsulation + dehumidification in chronically damp spaces.

6) Plumbing & safety

• Insulate exposed hose bibs before first freeze; disconnect hoses.

• Test smoke/CO alarms; replace batteries.

• Clean the dryer vent (from the wall to the exterior) to prevent lint fires.

• If you see rust or moisture at the water heater or TPR discharge, schedule a licensed plumber.

Seller & buyer tips

• Pre-listing check: Tackle gutters, caulking, and HVAC service now to reduce inspection findings later.

• New buyers: Ask for service records and confirm gutters, grading, and insulation are in good shape—these items deliver the biggest ROI and comfort boost.

FAQ

How often should I clean gutters in Georgia?At least twice each fall (mid-season and post-leaf drop); more if you have heavy canopy.

What’s an ideal indoor humidity?Keep 30–50% RH. Above 60% encourages mold and dust mites.

Do I need attic insulation top-offs?If insulation is below ~R-38 (about 12–14 inches of fiberglass), topping up can improve comfort and energy efficiency.

Need a professional eye before winter?

I’m Keishin Matos, CPI (Certified Professional Inspector) & Certified Mold Inspector. My video-rich reports arrive within 24 hours, with clear priorities and next steps you can hand to your contractor.

1st Choice Inspections — Serving Metro Atlanta: Peachtree City • Newnan • Griffin • Douglasville • Villa Rica • Covington • Lawrenceville & nearby📞 909-532-2261 | 📧 inspectorkmatos@gmail.com