🍂 Fall Home Maintenance Checklist (and Knowing Your Coverage)

Fall is officially here—and with it comes cooler temperatures, rainy days, and stormy weather. As leaves fall and the weather shifts, it’s not only the perfect time to bask in the cozy warmth of autumn, but also to prepare your home for the months ahead. A little maintenance now can save you big headaches (and expenses) later!

Here’s a simple fall home maintenance checklist to help keep your home safe and sound this season—plus an important insurance tip every homeowner should know.

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✅ Fall Home Maintenance Checklist

1. Clear Gutters and Downspouts
Falling leaves can quickly clog your gutters, leading to water damage and roof leaks. Make sure gutters are clear and downspouts direct water away from your foundation.

2. Check Your Roof
Loose shingles or worn spots can turn into leaks once the heavy rains arrive. A quick inspection now can prevent a much bigger repair later.

3. Trim Trees and Branches
Strong winds and muddy, mushy ground can bring down trees or branches, potentially damaging your home, car, or power lines.

4. Service Your Heating System
Have your furnace or heating system serviced before the chill sets in. It’s safer, more efficient, and prevents mid-season breakdowns.

5. Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
With fireplaces, heaters, and candles in use during fall and winter, it’s a good time to make sure detectors are working properly.

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🏠 Why Your Insurance Coverage Matters Too

Even with the best preparation, accidents can happen—like a tree branch falling on your roof. That’s where your homeowners insurance comes in.

Keep in mind, not all policies cover losses the same way. The difference often comes down to whether your policy pays out on a Replacement Cost Value (RCV) or Actual Cash Value (ACV) basis.

🔑 Replacement Cost (RCV) vs. Actual Cash Value (ACV): What’s the Difference?

• Replacement Cost (RCV):
  Your insurance covers what it actually costs to replace or repair your damaged property with new materials, without subtracting depreciation.
  Example: If a storm damages your 15-year-old roof, your policy pays what it costs to install a brand-new roof.
• Actual Cash Value (ACV):
  Your insurance covers the replacement cost minus depreciation for age and wear.
  Example: If that same 15-year-old roof is damaged, you’ll get a payout based on its current value—not enough for a brand-new roof.

This difference can be significant when it comes to big-ticket items like roofs, siding, or major appliances.

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🌧️ Heading Into Stormy Weather: Are You Covered the Way You Think?

Taking care of fall maintenance helps prevent damage, but having the right coverage gives that extra layer of comfort. If you’re not sure whether your policy is RCV or ACV—or if your coverage limits are enough for today’s rebuilding costs—this is the perfect time to review.

Remember: our team is always happy to walk through your policy and make sure you’re set up for the season ahead. That way, you can head into fall knowing both your home and your wallet are protected. More money in your pocket for pumpkin brulee lattes!

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🍁 Stay safe, stay cozy, and enjoy everything fall in the PNW has to offer!
— The Gilday Insurance Agency Team