Maintenance Tasks for the Fall Season (And One You’re Probably Forgetting)

Fall in Portland brings cooler temperatures, golden leaves, and, of course, plenty of rain. As a landlord, it’s a busy time to make sure your rental property is prepared for the season ahead. Performing routine maintenance now can prevent costly repairs down the road, protect your investment, and keep tenants happy as they settle into the colder months. Here’s a rundown of essential fall maintenance tasks every Portland landlord should handle—and one often-overlooked task you might be forgetting.

Check and Clean the Gutters

Let’s start with the obvious: it rains a lot in Portland. Gutters and downspouts are your rental property’s first line of defense against water damage, but leaves and debris are their number one enemy.

Clogged gutters cause issues with pooling water, leading to leaking into the basement or damaging the roof. To avoid these issues, schedule a gutter cleaning for late fall, after most of the leaves have fallen.

And don’t forget to check the downspouts during your fall maintenance! Make sure water is draining away from the house and not collecting near the foundation. Extending the downspouts a few feet away from the structure is a simple solution to prevent potential flooding and water damage.

Inspect the Roof for Damage

Before the onslaught of heavy rain, take a look at the roof for any signs of wear and tear. Dealing with a leak in a Portland winter is the last thing a tenant or landlord wants to do. Missing shingles, cracked tiles, or signs of moss growth can lead to leaks that cause interior damage. Moss, in particular, is a big issue in Portland’s damp climate. Over time, it can lift shingles, allowing water to seep underneath.

While you’re at it, check for flashing issues around chimneys, vents, and skylights, as these are common areas where leaks can start. If you’re not comfortable climbing on the roof yourself, hire a professional to do the inspection and handle any minor repairs before they become major problems.

Test Heating Systems

Fall means colder weather and your tenants are going to want their heating systems working reliably. Now’s the time to schedule a furnace inspection to ensure everything is running efficiently. A technician can clean the system, replace filters, and check for any issues that could cause a breakdown mid-winter.

Remind tenants to replace their furnace filters regularly if that’s their responsibility.

If your property uses older heating systems, it may be time to upgrade to an energy-efficient model. While it’s a higher upfront cost, it can save you money in the long run and keep your tenants comfortable (and happy to stay) during the colder months.

Seal Drafty Windows and Doors

Energy efficiency is a big deal, especially in a place like Portland, where heating costs can spike during the fall and winter. Drafty windows and doors let warm air escape and cold air in, which can lead to higher energy bills for you and your tenants.

Caulk any gaps or cracks you find around doors and windows, and consider adding weather stripping where necessary during fall maintenance. If your windows are old and drafty, think about replacing them with double-pane windows. While it’s an investment, energy-efficient windows can significantly reduce heating costs and increase the overall comfort of the home.

Trim Trees and Remove Dead Branches

Fall is a great time to take a look at the trees on your property. Overhanging branches can be a hazard, especially during the windy, stormy weather that Portland often sees in the fall. Large branches near the roof, windows, or power lines should be trimmed back to prevent damage.

Dead branches are particularly dangerous in a windstorm, and we’ve been seeing more and more of those recently. Have a professional tree service remove any dead branches and inspect the overall health of the trees. This simple task can save you a headache (and possibly a big repair bill) later on.

Service the Fireplace and Chimney

Many of Portland’s classic older homes have a fireplace, and fall is the perfect time to give it some attention. A professional will clear soot and debris, check for blockages, and ensure the chimney is venting properly to reduce the risk of chimney fires.

Gas fireplaces need to be inspected to ensure they’re functioning correctly. Gas lines should be checked for leaks, and the unit itself should be cleaned to maintain efficient operation.

If your tenants plan to use the fireplace, make sure they know how to operate it safely and keep the area around it free from flammable materials. Ensure your rental is up to code with the correct number of fire extinguishers.

Inspect and Drain Outdoor Faucets and Sprinkler Systems

Before temperatures drop below freezing (yes, even in Portland), it’s important to winterize your outdoor water systems. Draining outdoor faucets and sprinkler systems can prevent pipes from freezing and bursting.

Disconnect and store any hoses, and install insulated faucet covers to protect outdoor spigots. If your rental property has an irrigation system, consider having it professionally winterized to avoid any surprises come spring.

Prepare for Stormy Weather

>Portland’s fall and winter storms can bring heavy rain and strong winds, so it’s important to make sure your property is ready for whatever Mother Nature has in store.

First, check that your rental property has working sump pumps if it’s in a flood-prone area. Make sure exterior drainage systems, like French drains, are clear and functioning properly. Consider adding a backup generator or at least providing tenants with information on how to handle power outages, especially if the home is in a more rural area where power might go out more frequently.

Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

This is a task that often gets overlooked but can literally save lives. Replace batteries as needed, and if any units are more than ten years old, it’s time to replace them entirely.

With tenants likely using heaters, fireplaces, and possibly space heaters during the colder months, you’ll want to ensure that the home’s safety systems are working to detect any potential hazards.

The Task You’re Probably Forgetting: Clean Dryer Vents

While you’re busy inspecting roofs and sealing windows as part of your fall maintenance, don’t forget about one of the most common causes of house fires: clogged dryer vents. Lint buildup in dryer vents can easily catch fire, especially as tenants start drying heavier clothes like sweaters and blankets during the fall.

Cleaning the dryer lint trap is important, but it’s not enough. Make sure the dryer vent—the long duct that runs from the dryer to the outside of the house—is cleaned out at least once a year. If you’re not sure how to do it or don’t have the proper equipment, there are professional services that specialize in dryer vent cleaning.

Settle In For Cooler Weather

Fall in Portland is a beautiful time of year, but it’s also a time for landlords to roll up their sleeves and tackle important fall maintenance tasks. By taking care of these fall to-dos, you’ll protect your rental property from damage while keeping it safe and comfortable for your renters. But if you’re tired of juggling property maintenance season after season, working with the pros can provide some relief. Rent Portland Homes Darla Andrew’s Office makes sure your property is in top shape year-round so you can enjoy maximum profits while your tenants enjoy a safe and comfortable living experience. Want to hear more about our five-star maintenance team? Give us a call at (503) 515-3170.