Why Bay Area Homes Need Seasonal Maintenance

Bay Area homes face specific seasonal stresses: the wet season (November–April) brings heavy rain, wind, and humidity; the dry season brings heat and UV exposure. Staying ahead of both cycles prevents most major repair bills.

Fall / Pre-Rain Season (October–November)

  • Clean gutters and downspouts — blocked gutters are the #1 cause of water intrusion in Bay Area homes
  • Inspect and caulk around windows and doors — look for gaps where caulk has cracked or pulled away
  • Check roof flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights
  • Service your HVAC system — replace filters, clean intakes, have the system inspected if it hasn't been done in 2+ years
  • Check all exterior wood (fences, decks, fascia) for paint failure or rot — address before the wet season hits

Spring (March–April)

  • Inspect for any winter damage — look for water stains on ceilings, swollen door frames, and damaged exterior paint
  • Test smoke and CO detectors — replace batteries
  • Check deck and fence posts for ground contact moisture — this is where rot usually starts
  • Clean dryer vents — a clogged dryer vent is a fire hazard and a common one we encounter
  • Inspect window screens and replace any that are torn before insect season

Summer (June–August)

  • Test your AC before the heat season — don't discover it's broken when it's 95 degrees
  • Check attic ventilation — adequate ventilation prevents heat buildup that damages roofing materials
  • Look for signs of pest activity — hot weather drives ants and rodents to seek water indoors
Pro tip: Create a simple home maintenance log and add photos when you find issues. This documentation is valuable if you sell and invaluable when tracking recurring problems.