What a seasonal maintenance visit includes

Illustration of a blank calendar and a rake beside porch posts.

A seasonal visit is a list, not a vague promise to “look around.” In this invented practice the list is usually gutters, weatherstripping on the doors that are used every day, and a walk around the outside of the house.

Gutters are cleared where they can be reached safely from a short ladder. Weatherstripping is checked for gaps you can see. Outdoor faucets are noted so someone in the house can shut them off before a freeze. We do not climb a steep roof or write a report for an insurer.

The same list is used in spring and in fall, with the season’s own emphasis. Spring is more about undoing winter wear. Fall is more about water and cold. Either way, the visit ends when the list ends.