Prepping Your Home for Your Absence: Essential Steps for Extended Trips or Seasonal Shut-downs
Prepping Your Home for Your Absence: Essential Steps for Extended Trips or Seasonal Shut-downs
If you own a home that you leave for long periods of time or seasonally, or if you’re otherwise planning an extended time away from your home there are key steps to take to protect your home and save money. Here’s a comprehensive guide on what you should do to your house when you leave it empty for an extended period.
- Lock ‘er Down:
– Double-check all doors and windows to ensure they are securely locked.
– Consider installing deadbolts and security systems for added protection. There are relatively inexpensive options for web-connected video camera security systems that allow you to monitor your home from your phone while away. A couple of options include Blink by Amazon and SimpliSafe.
– If you have a spare key hidden outside, remove it and install a lockbox or entrust it to a neighbor or friend instead.
- Arrange to hold Mail and Deliveries:
– Put your mail on hold with the postal service to prevent a pile-up in your mailbox, signaling your absence.
– Notify delivery services to hold packages or arrange for a trusted neighbor to collect them.
– Consider installing a security camera or doorbell camera to monitor any deliveries or visitors.
– Put a hold on any newspaper or other regular delivery services.
- Set Up Home Monitoring:
– Invest in a home monitoring system that allows you to remotely access cameras, alarms, and sensors.
– Ensure that your system is connected to reliable power sources and has backup batteries in case of outages.
- Maintain Your Yard:
– Arrange for lawn care services to mow your lawn and trim bushes regularly.
– Set up automatic sprinklers or irrigation systems to keep your plants hydrated.
– Ask a neighbor or friend to water indoor plants or garden beds if necessary.
- Adjust Thermostat and Utilities:
– Adjust your thermostat to save energy while still preventing extreme temperature fluctuations that could harm plants or belongings.
– Consider turning off non-essential appliances and unplugging electronics to prevent energy wastage and reduce the risk of electrical fires.
– Set your water heater to “away” or if that setting is unavailable on your model, turn down your water heater’s thermostat to its lowest setting.
- Secure Valuables:
– Store valuable items, important documents, and sentimental belongings in a secure, fireproof safe.
– Take inventory of valuable possessions and consider purchasing additional insurance coverage if needed.
- Notify Trusted Individuals:
– Inform a trusted neighbor, friend, or family member about your absence and provide them with emergency contact information.
– Consider hiring a service to periodically drive by and/or enter your house to check that everything is OK. No Worry Home checks serve this function quarterly.
- Prepare Plumbing and Appliances:
– Turn off the main water supply to prevent leaks or flooding while you’re away.
– Consider installing water leak detectors that can alert you to any issues remotely.
– Unplug non-essential appliances to reduce the risk of electrical malfunctions or fires.
Conclusion:
Taking proactive steps to prepare your home before an extended absence is crucial for maintaining its security, efficiency, and functionality. By following these essential guidelines, you can minimize risks, safeguard your belongings, and enjoy your time away with peace of mind. Remember, a little preparation goes a long way in ensuring a smooth return to a safe and welcoming home. Signing up for No Worry Home membership ensures that someone will check the systems of your home each calendar quarter. Click here to enquire about membership: https://noworryhome.com/contact-us/.