Seattle homeowner’s pre-winter checklist for a cozy, dry home

Fall in Seattle can be busy with pumpkin spice, football, and holiday planning. The last thing you want is a winter home emergency. Spending a little time now can prevent leaks, drafts, and unexpected repairs when the weather turns colder. Even if you have been putting it off, it is a great time to tackle key tasks and make sure your home is ready for Seattle’s chilly, wet winters.

1. Service your heating system

Seattle winters are damp and chilly, so a working heating system is essential. Schedule a tune-up for your furnace, boiler, or heat pump, swap out air filters, and test your thermostat. A system running efficiently now keeps your home warm and helps you avoid last-minute repair calls during the holidays.

2. Clean and check gutters and downspouts

Big leaf maples and pine trees drop plenty of debris in the fall. Clear out needles, leaves, branches and gunk so rainwater can flow freely. Flush downspouts and make sure water moves away from your foundation and crawl spaces. Clean gutters prevent roof leaks, water damage, and slippery walkways during the winter months.

3. Inspect the roof

Rain, wind, and falling branches can damage shingles or flashing. Check for loose or missing shingles, inspect around chimneys and vents, and look in the attic for signs of leaks. Fixing small issues now can save you from bigger headaches and higher costs during the winter season.

4. Protect pipes and plumbing

Even though freezing is less common in Seattle, it is smart to check exposed pipes in crawl spaces, garages, or basements. Insulate vulnerable pipes and make sure outdoor faucets are shut off and drained. Adding insulated faucet covers provides extra protection during unusually cold snaps. Preparing your plumbing now can prevent costly water damage later.

5. Seal windows and doors

Drafts make your home feel colder and increase heating costs. Check windows and doors for gaps, replace worn weatherstripping, and add door sweeps if needed. Simple steps like plastic window film kits can help your home stay warm, dry, and cozy all winter.

6. Clean the chimney and fireplace

A warm fire is a winter comfort, but only if your chimney and fireplace are safe. Have a professional sweep to remove soot and creosote, check the flue and chimney cap, and make sure gas fireplaces vent properly. Once everything is ready, you can enjoy the ambiance of a fire without worrying about repairs.

7. Inspect exterior drainage and check your sump pump

Not every Seattle home has a sump pump, but if yours does, it is an important line of defense against basement or crawl space flooding during the wet winter months. Make sure the pump is working properly. Check that the pit is clear of debris, the float moves freely, and water flows out of the discharge pipe and away from your foundation. Even a small blockage or malfunction can lead to water damage during heavy rain.

For homes without a sump pump, it is still important to make sure water drains away from your foundation. Ensure downspouts are clear, water flows downhill, and areas around the foundation are graded properly. Proper drainage now can prevent leaks, dampness, and costly winter repairs.

8. Check attic insulation and ventilation

Proper insulation keeps heat inside and prevents damp air from condensing on rafters. If you can see the tops of your joists, consider adding more insulation. Make sure vents are clear so moisture can escape. Good attic ventilation and insulation prevent mold, ice dams, and energy waste while keeping your home comfortable.

9. Prepare for storms and power outages

Seattle storms can arrive quickly. Keep flashlights, extra batteries, blankets, bottled water, and non-perishable snacks ready. If you have a generator, test it and keep fuel on hand. Keep salt or sand for slippery paths and a sturdy shovel ready for wet leaves or moss. Being prepared now saves stress and unexpected winter repair costs.

10. Take a close look at the exterior

Before the winter rains arrive, take a few minutes to really inspect your home’s exterior. Look closely at windows and siding, check for leaks, peeling paint, or wavy boards. These small signs can point to larger problems if left unattended. Catching them early allows you to address issues before they turn into bigger, more expensive repairs.

Bonus: Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors

Winter means more time indoors with heaters, stoves, and fireplaces running. Testing smoke and CO detectors and replacing batteries is a small but important task that provides peace of mind throughout the season.

Getting your home ready for Seattle’s pre-winter season does not have to be overwhelming. Completing a few of these tasks now can help prevent leaks, drafts, and costly repairs when the weather turns colder.

If you know someone who could use a hand with their home, whether it is buying, selling, or seasonal maintenance, I am happy to provide guidance or referrals to trusted local professionals. Referrals are the best way for me to help more people while keeping things comfortable for everyone involved. By planning ahead, you can enjoy a cozy, dry, and stress-free winter with fewer last-minute surprises.