Fall Roof Checklist for Metro Atlanta Homeowners
Fall in Metro Atlanta means falling leaves, cooler nights and the occasional strong storm. A little attention now can prevent leaks this winter. Here is a simple checklist to work through.
By C. Purcell · Updated November 5, 2026 · 2 min read
Why fall is a good time to check your roof
Georgia has a second storm season. According to the Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency and the National Weather Service, parts of Georgia see a second peak in severe weather, including tornadoes, in November and early December.
Add falling leaves, pine straw and cooler, wetter weather, and fall is the right time to fix small problems before winter. Source: GEMA/HS Fall Severe Weather Preparedness Day.
Your 7-step fall roof checklist
Photos from our own jobs and inspections.
Clean the gutters and downspouts
Leaves and pine straw clog gutters fast. When gutters back up, water can spill under the roof edge and rot the fascia and decking. Clear them out, and check that downspouts drain away from your foundation.
Clear debris off the roof
Leaves that pile up in valleys and behind chimneys hold moisture against the shingles. A clean roof dries faster and lasts longer. If you cannot reach it safely from a ladder, leave it to a professional.
Trim overhanging branches
Branches that rub against the roof wear away granules, and limbs that overhang the house are the ones that come down in storms. Trimming them back reduces both risks.
Look for missing or damaged shingles
From the ground, use binoculars to look for missing, curled or cracked shingles, especially after summer storms. Small problems are cheaper to fix before cold, wet weather arrives.
Check flashing around chimneys, vents and skylights
Many leaks start where the roof meets something else. Look for gaps, rust or lifted flashing. Our post on why roofs leak around attic vents explains one of the most common trouble spots.
Check the attic
On a sunny day, look for daylight coming through the roof boards, water stains, damp insulation or musty smells. These are early signs of a leak.
Schedule a professional inspection
If your roof is getting older or you have had storms this year, a professional inspection before winter is worth it. A roofer can spot damage you cannot see from the ground and tell you whether anything needs attention now. See our roofing FAQs for more answers.
Quick checklist
- Clean the gutters and downspouts
- Clear debris off the roof
- Trim overhanging branches
- Look for missing or damaged shingles
- Check flashing around chimneys, vents and skylights
- Check the attic
- Schedule a professional inspection
Stay off the roof
Do what you can from the ground or a safe ladder. Walking a roof is dangerous, especially when it is wet or covered in leaves. Leave the rooftop work to a professional.
Fall roof FAQs
When is the best time to have my roof inspected?
Fall works well: it comes after summer storms and before winter weather. It is also smart to get an inspection after any major hail or wind storm.
How often should I clean my gutters?
Many homeowners clean them at least twice a year, in spring and fall. If you have a lot of trees, especially pines, you may need to do it more often.
Is a fall roof inspection free?
Yes. We inspect the whole roof, show you photos of what we find and tell you whether anything needs attention. Call 404-474-4222 or schedule a free roof assessment.
Schedule Your Free Fall Roof Inspection
Emergency Roofing Solutions serves homeowners across Metro Atlanta and North Georgia. Prefer to talk? Call 404-474-4222. A live person answers 24/7.