September in Michigan is a transition month. The days are getting shorter, temperatures are beginning to cool, and before long, homeowners will be dealing with falling leaves, heavy rain, freezing temperatures, snow, and ice.
Before winter arrives, September is a great time to give your home a seasonal checkup. A little preventative maintenance now can help reduce the chance of property damage later—and it can also be a good reminder to review your homeowners insurance.
Here are seven places to start.
- Take a Look at Your Roof
You don’t necessarily need to climb onto the roof to give it a quick inspection. From the ground, look for missing, damaged, curling, or loose shingles and other visible signs of wear.
Michigan’s fall and winter weather can put additional stress on a roof, so addressing a small problem before snow and ice arrive may help prevent a much bigger problem later.
- Clean Your Gutters and Downspouts
Once the leaves begin falling, gutters can fill up quickly. Clogged gutters may prevent rainwater and melting snow from draining properly away from your home.
Clear leaves and debris from gutters and make sure downspouts direct water away from the foundation. While you’re there, check for loose or damaged sections that may need repair.
- Check Around Windows and Doors
Feel a draft around a window or exterior door? September is a good time to address it.
Inspect caulking and weatherstripping for cracks, gaps, or deterioration. Sealing these areas can help keep cold air outside while also preventing moisture from finding its way into places it shouldn’t.
- Give Your Heating System Some Attention
Don’t wait until the first freezing night to discover that your furnace isn’t working properly.
Consider scheduling routine HVAC maintenance, replace filters as recommended, and test your thermostat. If you use a fireplace or wood-burning stove, fall is also a good time to have the chimney and related components inspected and cleaned.
- Disconnect Outdoor Hoses
This is an easy one to forget.
Before freezing temperatures arrive, disconnect garden hoses and properly shut down exterior faucets when appropriate. Water left in hoses or plumbing exposed to freezing temperatures can contribute to frozen or damaged pipes.
If you’re unsure how to winterize exterior plumbing at your home, consider contacting a qualified professional.
- Walk Around Your Property
Take a few minutes to look at the trees surrounding your home, garage, driveway, and other structures.
Dead, damaged, or overhanging branches can become a bigger concern during strong winds, heavy snow, or ice. A professional tree service can help evaluate branches or trees you’re concerned about.
This is also a good time to secure or store patio furniture, grills, garden equipment, and other outdoor items before Michigan’s colder weather sets in.
- Review Your Homeowners Insurance
Your home changes over time—and your insurance may need to change with it.
Did you renovate your kitchen? Finish the basement? Build a deck? Add a shed? Purchase expensive electronics, jewelry, or other valuable belongings?
Major home improvements and purchases can affect your insurance needs. September is a convenient time to review your policy and make sure your agent knows about significant changes to your home or property.
It’s also worth understanding what your homeowners policy does—and doesn’t—include. For example, certain types of water damage or other losses may require additional coverage or endorsements depending on your policy.
Is Your Home Ready for Another Michigan Winter?
Fall preparation isn’t only about raking leaves and putting away the patio furniture. It’s an opportunity to catch small maintenance issues before Michigan’s colder weather puts your home to the test.
It’s also a good time to ask questions about your homeowners insurance.
Loyalty Insurance Services has been serving Michigan families since 1992. As an independent insurance agency, we can help you review your current homeowners policy, understand your coverage, and explore options from