New England winters can be tough, and if you live in Maine or New Hampshire, you know how unpredictable the weather can be. But some of the biggest winter risks for homeowners don’t start with a snowstorm—they begin with overlooked maintenance tasks in the fall. Before temperatures drop and snow starts piling up, take a closer look at your home’s condition. Checking off a few key items now can prevent unexpected (and expensive) repairs down the road.

From cleaning out your chimney to keeping critters out of your attic, here’s what you should tackle now to keep your home safe, comfortable, and protected all season long.

Chimney and Stove Cleaning: A Must-Do for Home Safety

There’s something comforting about sitting by a roaring fire on a cold winter evening. But here’s the thing: a neglected chimney can turn that cozy scene into a nightmare. Over time, creosote—a sticky, tar-like substance—builds up inside chimneys. Just a spark can set it ablaze, causing a chimney fire that might spread to the rest of your home. Regular maintenance is key to preventing these dangerous situations.

What’s at stake?

Imagine a homeowner in Portland, Maine, who skipped their annual chimney cleaning. They figured, “It’s just one season—I’ll do it next year.” One cold night in December, a thick, black smoke started filling the living room. Turns out, the creosote buildup had caught fire, damaging the chimney’s structure and costing over $5,000 in repairs—not to mention the fear and disruption during the holiday season.

What to do instead:

• Schedule a professional chimney cleaning. Early fall is a good time to get it done, before you’re in full winter mode.
• Inspect your wood stove or fireplace. Make sure there are no cracks or loose bricks.
• Install a chimney cap. This simple addition can prevent leaves, rain, and critters from getting in.
• Check your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Make sure they’re working and replace batteries if needed.

Slips, Falls, and Icy Driveways: Cold Weather Hazards Start Now

While winter brings ice and snow, the time to prepare is during the fall. Icy walkways, slippery driveways, and loose steps all become prime locations for accidents once the temperatures drop below freezing. And it’s not just about avoiding an embarrassing slip on your front step—falls can lead to serious injuries and, sometimes, costly liability claims if a visitor gets hurt on your property.

What’s the risk?

Picture this: a neighbor comes over to drop off holiday cookies, but the loose railing on your front steps gives way. They fall, fracturing their wrist. Homeowners insurance might cover some of the medical costs, but it’s a headache you don’t want during the holidays. Avoid this scenario by getting a head start on safety.

What to do instead:

• Secure handrails and repair loose steps. If anything feels wobbly or looks cracked, take care of it before the cold weather makes repairs more difficult.
• Inspect walkways and driveways. Fix any uneven areas that can become hidden under snow and ice.
• Stock up on de-icing products. Pick up salt or sand now before the first ice storm sends everyone scrambling to the hardware store.

Vermin and Rodent Infestations: Unwanted Winter Guests

As the temperature drops, we all like to cozy up inside—so do rodents. Mice, squirrels, and even raccoons look for warm places to nest as the days get colder, and your attic or basement is a perfect spot for them to settle in. The problem? Most homeowners insurance policies won’t cover damage caused by these critters. That means chewed wires, shredded insulation, and gnawed structural beams are all on your dime.

What’s at stake?

Take, for instance, a homeowner in New Hampshire who ignored a small gap in their garage door. A family of squirrels found their way inside and made themselves at home in the attic. By the time the homeowners discovered them, the squirrels had chewed through electrical wiring, creating a fire hazard that required a licensed electrician to repair. The final bill? $2,000 out-of-pocket.

What to do instead:

• Seal up gaps and cracks. Check your home’s foundation, vents, and roofline for any openings. Even a hole the size of a dime can invite rodents inside.
• Trim trees and shrubs. Keep branches away from the house so squirrels can’t use them as highways to your roof.
• Store food properly. Pet food, birdseed, and even holiday decorations stored in the garage or basement should be in sealed containers.

General Home Maintenance: Small Tasks that Pay Off Big

Not all fall maintenance tasks are dramatic, but even small efforts can prevent big problems down the line. Cleaning gutters, checking the roof, and prepping your heating system can make the difference between a smooth winter and an emergency call to a contractor in the middle of a snowstorm.

What to do this season:

• Clean your gutters. Clogged gutters can lead to ice dams, which can damage your roof and cause leaks inside your home.
• Inspect your roof. Look for loose or missing shingles and address any small leaks before they become big ones.
• Test your heating system. Have your furnace or boiler serviced, and check that vents and ducts are clear of obstructions.

Fall Home Maintenance Checklist

To help you get started, here’s a quick checklist of fall tasks that can keep your home safe and sound:

• Schedule a chimney and stove cleaning.
• Seal cracks around windows, doors, and foundations.
• Clean out gutters and downspouts.
• Repair loose or damaged steps, walkways, and railings.
• Trim back trees and shrubs around the house.
• Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
• Stock up on firewood and de-icing products.
• Service your heating system.

Taking these simple steps now can prevent expensive, time-consuming repairs later. Not sure if your homeowners policy covers you for every scenario? Give us a call or stop by—we’re happy to review your policy and make sure you’re ready for whatever this winter throws at you.

As always, if you have questions about your coverage or want to discuss how to protect your home this season, reach out to our team at Chalmers Insurance Group. We're here to help!