09/28/2026
🦉Hey all, this is Owl Home & Septic Inspections where Homes Are Inspected Through Keen Eyes and here is your October Home Maintenance Checklist.
Be sure to copy paste and print so you can check off the items as you have them completed.
Happy Fall Y'all.
🍂 Exterior
☐ Clean leaves and debris from gutters
☐ Make sure downspouts discharge well away from the foundation
☐ Check roof shingles for damage or missing shingles
☐ Inspect chimney and flashing
☐ Check exterior caulking around windows and doors
☐ Inspect siding for damage or loose sections
☐ Check exterior steps, railings and decks
☐ Disconnect and drain exterior hoses
☐ Shut off exterior water supply where applicable
☐ Store or protect outdoor furniture and equipment
🏠 Interior
☐ Test smoke alarms
☐ Test carbon monoxide alarms
☐ Replace batteries where needed
☐ Replace furnace filter
☐ Have heating equipment serviced if due
☐ Check heating vents and registers for obstructions
☐ Make sure basement/crawlspace vents are properly managed for winter
☐ Check windows and doors for drafts
☐ Inspect weatherstripping
☐ Check attic for signs of moisture or inadequate insulation
☐ Look for signs of water leaks around ceilings, walls and windows
💧 Plumbing & Water
☐ Check exposed plumbing for leaks
☐ Insulate vulnerable water lines
☐ Know where your main water shutoff is
☐ Check sump pump operation
☐ Clean the sump pit and ensure the discharge line is clear
☐ Check basement floor drains
☐ Look for early signs of foundation moisture
🌲 Septic & Well
☐ Keep vehicles and heavy equipment off the septic system
☐ Keep leaves and debris away from septic access covers
☐ Check septic tank access lids for damage
☐ Watch for unusually wet or soggy areas over the septic field
☐ Avoid planting trees or shrubs near septic components
☐ Check wellhead area for proper drainage
☐ Make sure the well cap is secure
☐ Consider scheduling water testing if it is due
🔥 Winter Preparation
☐ Clean and inspect the fireplace/chimney before regular use
☐ Stock up on heating fuel if applicable
☐ Check emergency generator if you have one
☐ Test portable heaters safely
☐ Check that snow-clearing equipment is ready
☐ Make sure house numbers are visible for emergency services
☐ Put away summer tools and equipment
🦉 One Last Walk-Around
Take 15 minutes and walk around your property. Look up, down and around for anything that looks different from the last time you checked.
Small problems found in October can become expensive problems by February.
Owl Home & Septic Inspections
📞 902-891-0444
✉️ [email protected]
Homes Inspected Through Keen Eyes
