8 End-of-Summer Home Maintenance Tips Every Homeowner Should Know
Don’t wait for the first autumn downpour to remind you of that leaky gutter.
As the summer sun starts to slip behind the clouds, August is your golden window for home maintenance. It’s your chance to get ahead of the weather, the wear and tear — and potential winter disasters.
Whether you’re a homeowner, landlord, or planning to sell soon, what you do this month could save you time, stress, and money later. Here’s your no-nonsense checklist of essential jobs to tackle before the seasons change.
☔ 1. Clear Those Gutters Before the Rain Comes
Blocked gutters don’t just overflow — they destroy brickwork, encourage damp, and even damage your roofline. Clear out debris now, while it’s dry and safe, and make sure downpipes are flowing freely.
Bonus tip: Look out for sagging sections or cracks — and fix them before they become a costly leak.
🔥 2. Book That Boiler Service (Before Everyone Else Does)
Trust us — don’t wait until October. Engineers get booked solid when the first cold snap hits. A pre-autumn service means peace of mind and better energy efficiency.
And if you’re a landlord? It’s a must to stay compliant and avoid last-minute emergencies.
🪟 3. Check Windows and Doors for Draughts
Feel a breeze where there shouldn’t be one?
Cracked seals, warped frames, and tired rubber trims can drive up your heating bills. August is the time to reseal, re-caulk or replace.
Small job now = lower bills later.
🛠️ 4. Inspect the Roof While It’s Still Safe to Do So
Binoculars or a drone if you're fancy — whatever it takes, do a visual check.
Look for:
- Missing or cracked tiles
- Moss buildup
- Damaged flashing around chimneys or skylights
Why now? Come October, these turn into leaks, mould, and very expensive phone calls.
🪑 5. Clean and Store Garden Furniture
Love your outdoor space? Then protect it from the worst of the weather.
Wash, dry and store furniture, cushions, and BBQs in a shed or garage. If left out, UV rays and rain will age them fast — even in the UK.
🔌 6. Test Your Smoke and CO Alarms
August is the forgotten sweet spot. Summer distractions are winding down, and school prep hasn’t fully kicked in.
Press those test buttons, change batteries, and make sure everything’s working.
For landlords, this is a legal obligation — not just a good idea.
🌿 7. Tidy Overgrown Trees and Shrubs
Foliage might look lovely in full bloom — but come autumn, that growth can clog gutters, block light, and damage roofs or fences. Trim it back now while it’s manageable and dry.
💧 8. Check External Pipes and Outdoor Taps
Frozen outdoor taps and burst pipes can cause serious damage later in the year.
Now’s the time to check for leaks, install insulation covers, or fix cracked joints before the frost arrives.
🎯 Final Thought: A Little Work Now, a Lot Less Stress Later
These aren’t huge, backbreaking projects. They’re smart, strategic actions that could save you thousands, prevent urgent winter callouts, and keep your home running smoothly.
August is your home’s quiet warning. Listen to it — and you’ll thank yourself come November.
📌 Need Advice or Preparing to Sell?
At Nicholson’s Estate Agents, we don’t just help you move — we help you protect your investment. Whether you're getting ready to sell or want a lettings team that manages more than just rent, we’re here to help.
Thinking of making a move? Book your free valuation today.
