Prepping Your Home for Vacation: Essential Security & Maintenance Checks Before You Go
School is out! Summer is in! That means summer vacation! Whether you're heading to a cottage, out East, on a camping adventure, or exploring new cities, leaving your home empty for an extended period requires a little preparation.
As our communities in Eastern Ontario continue to grow and evolve, and technology changes, the way we approach home security and maintenance, especially when heading out for vacation, has shifted. What worked in the past might need an update today to ensure your peace of mind. It's not just about locking the doors; a few simple security and maintenance checks can protect your property, and even save you money while you're away. We’re dusting off our Vacation Home Prep guide to help you plan ahead so you can truly unwind, knowing your home is as prepared as it can be.
Security First: Deterring Unwanted Visitors
No one wants to come home to an unpleasant surprise. Taking a few proactive steps can significantly reduce the risk of break-ins:
Lights & Presence: Make your home look occupied.
Light Timers: Use simple light timers or smart lighting systems to turn lights on and off in different rooms at varying times, mimicking your usual routine.
Smart Home Devices: If you have smart cameras or doorbell cameras, ensure they're operational and you can monitor them remotely.
Mail & Deliveries: An overflowing mailbox (or front step for Amazon deliveries!) is a clear sign that no one's home.
Hold Mail: If you get mail delivery right to your door and are planning to be gone for an extended period, contact Canada Post to temporarily hold your mail.
Neighbour Help: Ask a trusted neighbour to pick up flyers, newspapers, and any packages left on your porch.
Don't Announce Your Absence: Resist the urge to post your vacation dates on social media until after you've returned.
Maintenance Matters: Protecting Your Home from Within
On top of basic security, a few quick maintenance checks can prevent costly headaches while you're away:
Water Checks: A burst pipe or slow leak can cause significant damage when no one is around to notice.
Turn Off Main Water Valve (Optional, but Recommended for Extended Trips): If you're going away for more than a few days, consider turning off your home's main water supply. This is the best protection against leaks. If you turn off your main water valve, remember to drain all faucets by simply turning them on until they empty.
Check Faucets & Toilets: Do a quick check for any drips, leaks under sinks or running toilets before you leave.
Insurance Tip: Take a quick peek at your home insurance policy before you leave. Many Ontario insurers require a trusted person to physically walk through the home every few days while you're away to maintain coverage for unexpected water damage.
Thermostat Settings: Save energy and keep your home comfortable upon return.
Summer Settings: Set your thermostat a few degrees higher than normal (e.g., 26-28°C / 79-82°F) to save energy but still prevent extreme heat buildup and humidity issues. Avoid turning it completely off since this can lead to mold with high humidity.
Smart Thermostats: If you have one, you can often control it remotely to adjust the settings to your preferred temperature closer to your return date.
Electronics Prep:
Unplug Unused Electronics: Unplug non-essential electronics to save "phantom load" energy and protect against power surges.
Smart Outlets: Use smart outlets that you can control remotely from your phone, allowing you to turn lights or small appliances on and off, making your home look occupied while you're away.
Enjoy Your Vacation with Peace of Mind!
Getting away should be relaxing, not a source of worry about your home. By taking a little time to prepare, you can significantly enhance your home's security and prevent potential issues.
How Your Local Handyman Service Can Help
Feeling overwhelmed by your pre-vacation checklist, or simply don't have the time? That's what we're here for! Your Local Handyman Service can assist with many of these crucial tasks, giving you more time to pack and relax:
Lock Installation & Repair: Upgrade your locks or fix sticky ones for enhanced security.
Smart Home Device Installation: We can install and set up battery operated doorbell cameras, exterior locks, and other security devices.
Exterior Repairs: Address any loose siding, damaged fences, or other exterior issues that could compromise security or cause bigger problems while you're away.
General Home Check-Up: We can perform a general walk-through to identify potential issues and take care of small repairs before you leave.
Let us help you ensure your home is safe and sound, so you can fully enjoy your summer getaway.
Contact Your Local Handyman Service today for a free estimate on your pre-vacation home prep!
(613) 851-8828 | info@YourLocalHandymanService.com | www.YourLocalHandymanService.com
Proudly Serving Kemptville, Winchester, Merrickville, Spencerville, Brockville, Ottawa, and the surrounding Eastern Ontario communities.