Fall Home Maintenance Tips for Busy Physicians

Fall is a beautiful season, but it’s also when small home issues can turn into big headaches. For physicians, long shifts and busy schedules often leave little time for upkeep. Here’s a quick guide to protecting your home this fall without losing precious downtime.

1. Clear Gutters and Downspouts

Leaves build up fast. If gutters clog, water backs up and can damage your roof or foundation. Hire a gutter service now—many book weeks in advance. As a busy physician family ourselves, I found a gutter services that comes quarterly on an automatic schedule. I know the work is getting done but I don't need to remember to schedule it. 

2. Schedule an HVAC Tune-Up

A quick system check ensures your furnace is ready for cold weather. Prevents unexpected breakdowns and helps you avoid emergency service calls when you least have time to deal with them. Many HVAC service providers offer a subscription package. Pro tip: If you have a home warranty, make sure you are having this service provided at regularly scheduled intervals so future claims can't be denied for lack of maintenance. 

3. Seal Drafts and Windows

Check doors and windows for gaps. A $10 weatherstripping kit can save hundreds on heating bills.

4. Lawn and Landscaping Prep

Have your yard service trim trees and shrubs away from the house. Falling limbs and overgrown branches are a hazard in winter storms. Does your neighborhood have leaf clean up? Be sure you're communicating this timeline with your yard service so you're not stuck raking after a long shift. 

5. Protect Outdoor Plumbing

Drain garden hoses, shut off exterior faucets, and insulate exposed pipes. A few minutes now prevents frozen pipes later.

6. Fireplace and Chimney Check

If you have a fireplace, get it inspected before the first fire. Creosote buildup is a major fire risk. 

7. Stock Up on Essentials

Salt for walkways, new furnace filters, and batteries for smoke detectors—knock these out in one Target run. Last year we had a surprise snow storm and the only place to buy salt was an overpriced grocery store. Don't make my mistake. We plan to get some early and store it in the garage for an inevitable "wintery mix."

Physician-Specific Tip

If you can’t spare time, outsource. Many of these tasks can be scheduled in one afternoon with trusted vendors. Create a “Fall Checklist” reminder on your phone and delegate the work—whether to a spouse, family member, or hired service. Your home stays protected, and you stay focused on patients and family.