By LE Construction · Published October 6, 2026
In Ventura County, most of the year’s rain comes in a handful of winter storms, often right after the driest, windiest part of the year. A fall walk-around gets your house ready for both. Here is a checklist you can work through in an afternoon.
Roof and gutters
- Clean gutters and downspouts.
- Make sure downspouts discharge several feet from the foundation.
- Look for missing or loose roofing, especially after wind.
- Check flashing at chimneys, vents and wall intersections.
- Remove leaves from roof valleys.
Walls and stucco
- Walk around and look for cracks, especially at window and door corners.
- Look for stains that stay dark after watering or rain.
- Check that soil, mulch and paving sit below the weep screed at the bottom of the stucco.
- Aim sprinklers away from walls.
Windows and doors
- Check caulk and weatherstripping.
- Make sure sliding door tracks drain.
- Look for soft wood at sills and thresholds.
Drainage
- Soil should slope away from the house.
- Clear yard drains and swales.
- Check that patios and walks do not slope toward the house.
Crawlspace (raised-floor homes)
- Look for standing water or damp soil.
- Keep vents open and clear.
- Check for signs of leaks under kitchens and bathrooms.
- Note any soft wood or termite signs.
Plumbing
- Check under sinks for drips.
- Look at the water heater base for rust or moisture.
- Know where your main water shutoff is.
Fire season items
- Clear the first five feet around the house of dry leaves, mulch and firewood.
- Check attic and foundation vents for torn screens.
- Trim branches overhanging the roof.
When to call for help
Some findings are worth a professional look before the rains: cracks that may be letting water in, soft wood, crawlspace water, and roof or flashing damage. We can inspect and give you a written price for anything that needs repair.
See our pages on stucco repair, water damage repair and Santa Ana wind preparation.
Frequently asked questions
When should I do fall maintenance in Ventura County?
Before the first big winter storm, usually in October or November. That also overlaps with Santa Ana wind season, so fire-related items like gutters and the area around the house serve double duty.
What is the most important fall maintenance item?
Getting water away from the house: clean gutters, downspouts that discharge away from the foundation, and soil that slopes away. Most winter damage we repair starts with water going where it should not.
Should I seal stucco cracks before winter?
Check them first. Hairline cracks are usually cosmetic, but cracks at window corners or stained areas may be letting water in and need a proper repair, not just caulk.
Do I need to check my crawlspace in the fall?
If your house has one, yes. Look for standing water, damp soil, blocked vents and signs of pests. Fixing drainage before winter keeps the framing and sill plates dry.