The 10-Minute Fall House Walkaround

11 minutes ago

2 min read

Grab your phone and take a quick walk around your property. You’re not looking for everything that needs fixing — you’re simply looking for anything that may need attention.

1. LOOK UP ☝️

Start with the roofline.

Check your roof, gutters, downspouts, vents, and nearby trees.

Are gutters filling with leaves or debris?
Are downspouts directing water away from the foundation?
Do you see damaged shingles, loose flashing, or anything that looks out of place?
Are there dead or broken branches hanging over the house?

2. LOOK DOWN 👀

Check the areas where water and foot traffic can cause problems.

Look at your walkways, steps, driveway, and the ground around your foundation.

Any new cracks or uneven surfaces?
Any areas where water is pooling after rain?
Is the soil around the foundation sloping away from the house?
Are there spots where water appears to be draining toward the house instead?

3. LOOK AROUND 🚪

Take a close look at your exterior doors and windows.

Is the exterior caulking cracked, missing, or pulling away?
Is weatherstripping damaged or worn?
Do you notice gaps around the frames?
Are windows or doors difficult to open, close, or seal?

4. CHECK YOUR TREES & YARD 🌳

Fall is a good time to notice branches that may become a problem.

Look for dead, damaged, or overhanging branches, especially those near the roof, house, or utility lines.

Then take a look at the rest of the yard.

Is a fence starting to lean?
Does a shed or other outbuilding need attention?
Is yard debris piling up?
Are there areas that could become a drainage problem?

5. TAKE A PICTURE 📱

See something you're not sure about?

Take a picture.

Photos make it easier to remember what caught your attention. And if you decide to call a contractor or other professional, you'll already have a visual reference to show them.