Planning an extended trip away from home is an exciting adventure, but it’s crucial not to overlook the importance of preparing your house before you go. Taking the time to secure your property and ensure its maintenance can give you peace of mind during your absence.
From safeguarding against potential burglaries to preventing water damage, there are several key steps you can take to protect your house while you’re away.
In this article, we will provide you with 10 essential tips that will help you prepare your house for extended travel. By implementing these strategies, you can enjoy your trip worry-free, knowing that your home is well taken care of.
Let’s dive in and discover how to make your house travel-ready!
1. Inform trusted neighbors or friends
Before embarking on your extended travel, it’s important to inform trustworthy neighbors or friends about your plans. Sharing your contact information and kindly asking them to keep an eye on your property will provide an extra layer of security while you’re away.
Suggestions:
- Provide your contact information and travel dates to trusted neighbors or friends.
- Request them to keep an eye on your property for any unusual activities.
2. Secure your house
Prioritize the safety of your home by double-checking that all windows, doors, and entry points are securely locked. Consider enhancing security measures, such as installing deadbolt locks or a monitored alarm system, to provide added peace of mind during your absence.
Suggestions:
- Double-check that all windows, doors, and entry points are securely locked before leaving.
- Consider installing additional security measures such as deadbolt locks or a monitored alarm system.
3. Unplug electronics and appliances
Remember to unplug non-essential electronics and appliances before leaving to prevent potential electrical hazards and conserve energy. This includes devices like televisions, computers, chargers, and kitchen appliances that are not required to remain operational.
Suggestions:
- Unplug non-essential electronics and appliances to prevent electrical hazards and save energy.
- Pay attention to items like televisions, computers, chargers, and kitchen appliances.
4. Set up timers for lights
Creating the illusion of an occupied home is a smart way to deter potential burglars. Use timers or smart home technology to schedule lights to turn on and off at different intervals throughout the day, making it appear as if someone is present.
Suggestions:
- Use timers or smart home technology to schedule lights to turn on and off at varying intervals.
- Create a schedule that simulates the patterns of an occupied home.
5. Turn off the main water supply
Minimize the risk of water-related issues while you’re away by turning off the main water supply to your house. This simple step helps prevent leaks or burst pipes and can save you from potential water damage headaches upon your return.
Suggestions:
- Locate the shut-off valve and turn it clockwise to stop the flow of water into your house.
- Consider draining the plumbing system by opening faucets and flushing toilets to prevent any water-related issues.
6. Adjust thermostat settings
Make energy-efficient adjustments to your thermostat before leaving. Setting the temperature to a level that conserves energy while still preventing extreme heat or cold will help you save on utility bills and ensure a comfortable environment when you return.
Suggestions:
- Set the thermostat to an energy-saving temperature to maintain a comfortable yet efficient climate.
- Consider using programmable thermostats to adjust temperature settings at different times of the day.
7. Clean out the refrigerator
Before embarking on your journey, dispose of perishable food items that may spoil while you’re away. Thoroughly clean out your refrigerator and freezer, and consider leaving an open box of baking soda inside to absorb any lingering odors.
Suggestions:
- Dispose of perishable food items that may spoil during your absence.
- Thoroughly clean the refrigerator and freezer, removing any remaining food and wiping down surfaces.
8. Arrange for mail and package delivery
To avoid signaling an empty home, make arrangements to either suspend mail and package deliveries or have a trusted neighbor collect them on your behalf. An overflowing mailbox or packages left unattended can attract unwanted attention.
Suggestions:
- Temporarily suspend mail and package deliveries or request a neighbor to collect them.
- Provide your neighbor with instructions on what to do with any deliveries that arrive while you’re away.
9. Create a checklist and emergency contact list
Compile a comprehensive checklist of tasks that need to be completed before your departure. Additionally, make a list of important emergency contacts, including trusted neighbors, family members, and local repair services, in case any unforeseen issues arise while you’re away.
Suggestions:
- Make a detailed checklist of tasks to complete before leaving, ensuring nothing is overlooked.
- Compile a list of emergency contacts, including neighbors, family members, and local service providers for quick assistance in case of any emergencies.
10. Empty and clean the toilet bowl
Before leaving, flush the toilet and ensure that the bowl is completely empty. This helps prevent any potential buildup or stains from sitting for an extended period. You can also consider adding a toilet bowl cleaner or disinfectant to keep the bowl fresh during your absence.
Suggestions:
- Use a toilet bowl cleaner: Apply cleaner, let it sit, scrub with a brush, and flush to rinse.
- Add vinegar and baking soda: Pour mixture, let it sit, scrub, and flush to rinse.