Leaving your home for an extended period—whether for a long vacation, seasonal move, or work assignment—requires careful planning to ensure your property remains safe and well-maintained. Home watch services help take the stress out of preparing for a long absence by providing regular checks, maintenance, and security. Here’s a comprehensive checklist of home watch services to help keep your property in top shape while you’re away.
1. Secure All Entry Points
Unsecured entry points can make your property vulnerable to intruders. Home watch services include securing all doors, windows, and other access points to keep your home safe:
- Check All Locks: Ensuring doors, windows, and gates are properly locked and secure.
- Arm Security Systems: Testing and setting alarm systems to ensure they’re functional.
- Close Window Coverings: Keeping blinds and curtains closed to maintain privacy and deter prying eyes.
Securing all access points gives homeowners peace of mind, knowing their property is safe from unauthorized access.
2. Adjust Thermostats and HVAC Systems
Maintaining a stable indoor temperature helps protect your home’s interior, particularly during extreme weather. Home watch services can adjust thermostats and monitor HVAC systems to prevent potential issues:
- Set to Energy-Saving Temperatures: Adjusting temperatures to save energy while ensuring pipes and systems stay protected.
- HVAC Checks: Ensuring heating and cooling systems are functioning properly to avoid unexpected malfunctions.
- Humidity Control: Setting dehumidifiers if needed to prevent mold or mildew growth in humid climates.
Proper temperature and humidity settings help prevent costly repairs and keep your home in good condition.
3. Shut Off Unnecessary Utilities
Turning off certain utilities can help lower costs and prevent leaks or other issues during an extended absence. Home watch services include utility checks to ensure everything is prepared for your time away:
- Turn Off Water Supply: Shutting off water to avoid leaks or flooding, particularly if pipes are prone to freezing.
- Unplug Appliances: Unplugging non-essential appliances to save energy and reduce fire risk.
- Set Water Heater to Vacation Mode: Lowering or turning off the water heater to save on energy costs.
Reducing utility use saves money and minimizes the risk of system-related issues while you’re gone.
4. Arrange Mail and Package Collection
Mail piling up outside your home signals that it’s unoccupied, which can attract intruders. Home watch services offer mail and package handling to keep your home looking “lived-in”:
- Mail Collection and Forwarding: Picking up mail and forwarding important items to you if needed.
- Package Retrieval and Storage: Bringing packages inside to prevent theft and maintain a tidy appearance.
- Regular Visits for a Lived-In Look: Making routine visits gives the appearance that the home is actively occupied.
These services help keep your property secure by minimizing signs that it’s vacant.
5. Inspect for Leaks and Potential Water Damage
Even a minor leak can cause extensive water damage if left unchecked. Home watch services inspect for leaks and signs of water damage, helping you prevent costly repairs:
- Inspect Pipes and Faucets: Checking for leaks or dripping faucets, especially in kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms.
- Monitor the Roof and Gutters: Ensuring gutters are clear and the roof is intact to prevent leaks or water buildup.
- Check Basement and Attic: Inspecting these high-risk areas for any signs of dampness or mold.
By catching leaks early, home watch services protect your home from expensive water damage.
6. Seasonal Preparations and Weather-Related Tasks
Seasonal weather changes can impact your property, especially if you’re away for several months. Home watch services handle necessary seasonal tasks to keep your home prepared:
- Winterization: Preparing pipes and outdoor features for freezing temperatures if you’ll be away during winter.
- Storm Preparation: Securing outdoor furniture and checking storm shutters if your area is prone to severe weather.
- Spring or Fall Maintenance: Clearing gutters, checking landscaping, and adjusting systems for seasonal needs.
Seasonal tasks keep your home safe from weather-related damage and ensure it’s in great shape for your return.
Why Champion Home Experts is Your Trusted Partner for Extended Absences
At Champion Home Experts, we understand the importance of detailed, reliable care for your home while you’re away. With 250+ clients across 50+ communities, we provide comprehensive home watch services tailored to keep your property safe, secure, and ready for your return.
Prepare for Your Next Trip with Champion Home Experts
Ready to leave your home worry-free? Contact Champion Home Experts today to learn how our home watch services can take care of your property, allowing you to enjoy your time away with complete peace of mind.