Fall Check-In. Is Your Home Ready for What’s Next?

Fall has a way of sneaking up on us. One day it’s iced coffee and flip-flops, the next it’s pumpkin spice and raking leaves. But autumn isn’t just about cozy sweaters and apple picking, it’s also the season when homeowners need to button things up before winter storms, unpredictable weather, and yes, even hurricanes roll through.

If the last few years have taught us anything, it’s that storms are becoming more extreme and a whole lot less predictable. Fall is the perfect checkpoint to make sure your home is safe, snug, and ready for whatever Mother Nature throws your way.

Here are some practical, easy-to-implement steps to get ahead of potential headaches (and insurance claims).

1. Inspect Your Roof Before the Storms Do

Your roof takes the brunt of wind, rain, and snow. A loose shingle today can mean a leak tomorrow.

Action Steps:

• Do a quick visual inspection from the ground with binoculars (or hire a pro).

• Look for missing or curling shingles, sagging gutters, or obvious gaps.

• Clear out leaves and debris from gutters and downspouts so water flows away from your home.

  
  

Pro tip: Install gutter guards if you’re tired of climbing ladders every fall.

2. Batten Down Outdoor Spaces

That charming patio umbrella or lightweight lawn furniture can turn into projectiles in high winds.

Action Steps:

• Store away furniture, grills, and gardening tools in a shed or garage.

• Tie down heavier items you can’t move.

• Check fencing for loose posts or panels that could topple.

  
  

Think of it as “decluttering,” but with safety in mind.

3. Test Your Sump Pump

Basement flooding is one of the most common (and most stressful) homeowner claims. A sump pump that fails in the middle of a storm is about as useful as an umbrella with holes.

Action Steps:

• Pour a bucket of water into the sump pit to make sure it kicks on.

• Consider a battery backup in case you lose power during a storm.

  
  

4. Check Your Insurance Coverage

This is where I come in. Many homeowners are surprised to learn that flood damage, sewer backups, and windstorm deductibles may not be included in their standard policies.

Action Steps:

• Review your policy with your agent.

• Ask about coverage gaps specific to hurricanes, flooding, or extreme weather.

• If you’ve made major upgrades like a new roof, finished basement, or expensive electronics, it’s worth checking if your coverage reflects the current value of your home and belongings.

  
  

Better to find out now than during a claim.

5. Prepare an Emergency Kit

If the power goes out or you’re stuck at home during a storm, a little preparation goes a long way.

Action Steps:

• Stock up on bottled water, shelf-stable food, flashlights, and batteries.

• Keep a small stash of cash, important documents (in waterproof containers), and phone chargers handy.

• Don’t forget pet supplies if you’ve got furry family members.

  
  

6. Trim Those Trees

Overhanging branches can become battering rams in a storm.

Action Steps:

• Hire a tree service to trim branches away from your home, driveway, and power lines.

• Remove dead or weakened trees before the next Nor’easter or hurricane does it for you.

  
  

7. Seal It Up

Small cracks and gaps let in more than cold air and they can let water in too.

Action Steps:

• Walk around your home with a tube of exterior caulk and seal gaps around windows, doors, and vents.

• Check weatherstripping and replace if it’s cracked or missing.

  
  

Not only will this help prevent leaks, but it will also save on heating bills once the temps drop.

8. Think Ahead to Winter

While you’re in “prep mode,” don’t forget that fall is the gateway to winter.

Action Steps:

• Have your heating system serviced now before everyone else calls their HVAC guy.

• Stock up on ice melt and make sure snow shovels are in good condition.

• If you use a generator, test it, and keep fresh fuel on hand.

  
  

Bottom Line

Fall isn’t just a season, it’s an important checkpoint. By taking a weekend now to get your home storm-ready, you’ll save yourself from bigger problems (and bigger expenses) later.

As we have been seeing, unpredictable weather is the new normal. But with some smart prep and the right insurance coverage, you’ll be ready for whatever comes next.

Want help reviewing your policy or filling in those coverage gaps? I’m just a call away. Let’s make sure your home, and everything in it, is protected this fall.