September is the official signal that summer is winding down—and for Property Managers and Community Association Managers, that means it’s time to shift into fall prep mode.
This transitional month gives you a valuable head start before vendors become booked solid, residents get busy, and weather creates new challenges. The key is to schedule early, communicate clearly, and inspect what you expect.
Here’s a practical vendor-focused checklist to help you get ahead.
🍁 1. Leaf Removal & Fall Landscaping Cleanup
Why now: Landscapers fill up fast once leaves start dropping, especially in tree-heavy communities.
What to do:
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Review your existing landscaping contracts to confirm fall cleanup dates.
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Schedule extra pickups for high-debris areas (like clubhouse entrances or parking lots).
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Ask vendors about mulching, pruning, and end-of-season plant care.
🧼 2. Pressure Washing and Exterior Cleaning
Why now: Fall is a great time to remove built-up grime before cooler temps make washing less effective.
What to do:
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Walk each property and note areas with algae, mildew, or staining.
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Prioritize sidewalks, pool decks, and siding near landscaping.
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Confirm power washing scope and timelines with current vendors or request new quotes.
💧 3. Irrigation Blowouts and System Shutdowns
Why now: If you’re in a region that freezes, sprinkler systems must be cleared before the first cold snap.
What to do:
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Identify which communities need winterization.
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Schedule blowouts with irrigation vendors for late September or early October.
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Ask vendors to inspect heads and timers during the shutdown for easier spring prep.
🎄 4. Holiday Lighting Installations
Why now: September is your last chance to secure prime dates with lighting vendors before the holiday rush.
What to do:
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Reach out to last year’s vendor for updated quotes and install timelines.
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Finalize lighting plans and approve designs early to avoid delays.
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If replacing vendors or adding new locations, begin RFPs or proposal reviews now.
🔌 5. Gutter Cleaning and Roof Inspections
Why now: Falling leaves and seasonal storms make gutters a high-risk item for water damage.
What to do:
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Schedule cleanouts and roofline inspections now—especially for multi-story buildings.
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Document areas that require patching or flashing repairs.
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Consider scheduling second cleanings in late fall for tree-heavy properties.
🔦 6. Lighting and Safety Walkthroughs
Why now: Days are getting shorter, and lighting becomes more important for safety and security.
What to do:
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Inspect exterior lighting, including path lights, stairwells, and signage.
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Replace bulbs or schedule rewiring where needed.
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Update your lighting vendor with a list of current issues.
🗓 7. Review Contracts and Vendor Schedules
Why now: September is the final planning window before Q4 begins.
What to do:
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Review each community’s vendor contracts to confirm scheduled seasonal services.
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Reach out to vendors for reminders or revised scheduling if needed.
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Document any gaps in service that need to be addressed this fall.
✅ Don’t Wait for the Weather to Tell You It’s Fall
The best property managers stay ahead of seasonal transitions—not behind them. By knocking out your fall vendor scheduling in September, you’ll avoid last-minute scrambles, missed services, and overbooked contractors.
Start early, stay organized, and keep your boards informed along the way. Your communities—and your calendar—will thank you.