🏡 Is Your Home Ready for Autumn? Do These 10 Jobs Before It’s Too Late
As August drifts towards its final days, the air changes. There’s a hint of chill in the mornings, leaves begin to whisper underfoot — and suddenly, summer is slipping through your fingers.
But while the change in season feels poetic, it’s also your final warning: Autumn is coming, and with it comes wind, rain, mud, and maintenance mayhem.
Whether you're planning to sell this autumn or simply want to avoid expensive surprises, now is the time to act. Here’s your essential August home maintenance checklist — 10 crucial tasks to get your home in shape before the cold rolls in.
1. 🔨 Check Your Roof — Before the Weather Does
It takes one storm to turn a loose tile into a leaky ceiling. August is your last chance to check your roof in dry conditions. Stand back and scan for cracked tiles, sagging areas, or moss build-up. Spot an issue? Don’t wait — fix it now, not when the damage has already been done.
2. 💦 Clear Your Gutters (You’ll Thank Yourself Later)
Leaves, twigs and summer moss may already be clogging up your gutters. Once autumn hits, blocked downpipes can cause water to overflow, damaging brickwork and foundations. Clean them now, and avoid an expensive damp problem later.
3. 🔧 Get Your Boiler Serviced While It’s Still Warm
Waiting until it breaks down during the first cold snap? Classic British mistake. August is a quiet time for heating engineers, and a routine service can keep your home cosy — and your wallet protected from winter breakdowns.
4. 🚪 Check Doors and Windows for Draughts
Even the tiniest gaps can let in cold air and push up your energy bills. Use draught excluders, re-seal worn caulking, and check your window locks. If you’re selling, buyers notice these things — and they expect a home that feels solid and well-looked after.
5. 🌳 Tidy Up Trees, Hedges and Overgrown Plants
Autumn winds and heavy rain can turn overgrown trees and bushes into hazards. Cut back anything that’s encroaching on your home, driveways or gutters. A tidy garden doesn’t just look great — it’s safer and easier to maintain come winter.
6. 🪑 Store Garden Furniture Before It’s Too Late
That stylish rattan set or wooden bench won’t survive a soaking. Give it a clean, let it dry fully, and store it in a dry space. If you’re tight on room, invest in a quality cover. Nobody wants to face a mouldy mess next spring.
7. 🧼 Pressure-Wash Paths and Patios
Algae and dirt build up fast during wet weather, turning patios and paths into slippery hazards. A quick pressure wash not only boosts kerb appeal but makes your outdoor areas safer for darker evenings ahead.
8. 💡 Sort Out Your Outdoor Lighting
As the nights draw in, functional and atmospheric lighting becomes essential. Replace blown bulbs, clean cobwebs from fittings, and test motion sensors. Well-lit entrances feel safe and welcoming — two big ticks on a buyer’s mental checklist.
9. 🧰 Check Sheds, Garages and Outbuildings
Leaks, damp or unwanted pests tend to creep in when you’re not looking. Inspect the roof, floor and walls of your outbuildings. Clear out summer clutter and store tools properly before the damp sets in. A well-kept shed can be a surprise selling point.
10. 📸 Plan Ahead If You’re Selling
Thinking of moving this autumn? Don’t wait until the leaves are falling and the skies are grey. Book your valuation now while your garden still looks fresh and your home benefits from good natural light.
Photos taken in August often look brighter, more inviting, and help listings stand out later in the year.
🏡 Final Thought: Get Ahead — or Catch Up Later (At a Cost)
These jobs might seem small now, but neglect them and they become big, messy, and often expensive.
A well-maintained home isn’t just a nicer place to live — it’s more energy-efficient, more valuable, and far more appealing to buyers. Whether you’re planning to move or just want to stay one step ahead of the seasons, now’s the time to act.
Thinking of Selling This Autumn?
At Nicholson’s, we help homeowners in Retford, Bassetlaw and the surrounding villages prepare their properties for a successful sale — in every season.
If you’d like honest advice, expert guidance, or to book a free valuation, get in touch today. Let’s get your home sale-ready — and one step ahead of autumn.
📞 Call us or 📩 book online.
Because smart sellers don’t wait for the rain to remind them.
