It’s almost summer and, for many, it’s the time of year to head out for a much-needed vacation!
Do you find yourself planning a vacation this year? If you do, whether it’s a weekend getaway or an extended holiday, it is important to take steps to protect your home while you’re away enjoying yourself. A little upfront preparation will help prevent damage, deter break-ins and give you the peace of mind so you can fully enjoy your time away.
With that in mind, I thought now might be a great time to share with you a simple checklist of the things you should do to your home before you head out. Hope it helps and Bon Voyage!
What to do to Prepare Your Home Before You Leave on Vacation
- Secure Your Home.
- Lock All Doors and Windows: Double-check every entry point -including the basement and garage doors.
- Hide Valuables: Store cash, jewelry and important documents in a safe or hidden area.
- Hold Deliveries: Suspend newspaper and mail delivery, or ask a neighbour to collect them. This will avoid alerting others that you’re not home.
- Use Timers for Lights: Plug a few lamps into timers to make your home appear occupied.
- Set Security Systems: Arm your alarm system if you have one. Also notify your monitoring company if you’ll be away for an extended period.
- Save Energy & Reduce Fire Risk
- Unplug Small Appliances: To prevent electrical fires and save power, unplug devices like coffee makers, toasters, TVs and chargers.
- Adjust the Thermostat: Set the temperature to a lower setting in winter or a higher one in the summer to save on energy bills.
- Turn off Water Heater: If you have a tank-based heater, set it to vacation mode!
- Clean Up Before You Go
- Empty the Fridge: Toss perishables and check expiration dates!
- Take Out the Trash: Garbage left behind can lead to bad smells or worse, pests.
- Do the Dishes and Laundry: This one you will appreciate when you get back!
- Plan for Plants Or Snow & The Occasional Check In
- Water Plants: Ask a friend or neighbour to water your indoor and outdoor plants, or use a self-watering system.
- Hire Someone To Shovel: If you are heading away during the Winter make sure you plan for snow removal. Nothing points out that you aren’t at home like a foot of snow without footprints leading to your door
- A Walk Around: It’s a good idea to have someone take a quick look inside. Especially if you are going on an extended holiday. Some insurance policies even require it.
- Leave Key & Contact Info with Someone You Trust:
- Provide Emergency Contact Info: Give a trusted friend or neighbour your contact info and itinerary.
- Spare Key: Leave a spare key with them in case of emergencies. Under the doormat is not the best place to leave it!