Shut off main water valve to help prevent a potential large water loss
Unhook all exterior hoses
Lock garage door manually
Double check that all doors and windows are locked
Check smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are working properly
Secure all valuables and place somewhere safe/hidden
Set Heat/Air to a constant temperature based on worst case weather scenario
Leave exterior lights on or confirm that your motion or timer exterior lights are working properly
Set home alarm system
Leave a couple lights on in the home so it looks like someone is there
OTHER CONSIDERATIONS:
Alert alarm company of your vacation dates so they know you are away
Think about not posting on social media that you are away or pictures that suggest it. Instead, post after your return that you had a great trip, glad to be back and then share your memories
Make sure lawn and snow removal needs are arranged
Let a neighbor or friend know you are leaving town so they may help keep an eye on things and make sure they have your contact information to reach you while you are away
Stop newspaper and mail delivery or plan for someone to pick up daily
Shut off main water valve to help prevent a potential large water loss
If your home is going to be vacant for an extended period of time, consider winterizing the home professionally
Make sure all gutters and downspouts are free and clear of debris to avoid water damage
Close window coverings
Unhook all exterior hoses
Lock garage door manually
Double check that all doors and windows are locked
Check that smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are working properly
Set Heat/Air to a constant temperature based on worst case weather scenario
Leave exterior lights on or confirm that your motion or timer exterior lights are working properly
Set home alarm system
Leave a couple lights on in the home so it looks like someone is there
Make sure trees around the home are properly trimmed and healthy
Stop newspaper and mail delivery or plan for someone to pick up daily
OTHER CONSIDERATIONS:
Check with your insurance company ahead of time. Most Insurance companies have written in the policy that homes that are vacant longer than 30 days may not be covered in the event of damages. Therefore, you may need to contact your agent and inquire about coverage.
Make sure you have your lawn care and snow removal set up
Alert the neighbors of the situation and leave them your contact information
Have a friend or neighbor periodically do a walk through
Clogged or dirty dryer vents, hoses and lint collectors
Fireplaces, keep chimney clean and free of debris
Ashes from grills or fireplaces not properly cooled and safely disposed of
Flammable liquids and products that are not safely stored or disposed of
Electrical cords that are fraying, wires exposed or kinked
Loose outlets
Too many devices on one circuit
Christmas lights improperly hung or near dry bristles
Electric space heaters
Smoking/ashtray disposal
Fireworks
Lightning strikes
PREPARATIONS AND PREVENTIONS:
Have an escape plan for your family in the event of a fire, do a fire drill based on several scenarios
If you and/or members of your family are in upstairs bedrooms, consider getting a window fire ladder made for residential use as the fire may be blocking the stairwell
Keep fire extinguishers conveniently located on each level of your home
Safely store all flammable products
Do not store anything near a gas furnace or water heater
Keep electric space heaters away from anything flammable, turn off when not in the same room as the unit and make sure it is secure where it is set up so it does not easily fall over
Do not put items close to a stove
Do not leave food cooking on the stove unattended
Turn off Christmas lights before your go to bed
Do not staple Christmas lights to your home or deck
Make sure all your electrical and charging cords are in good shape
Loose electrical outlets should be attended to
Do not leave burning candles unattended
Check that all smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are in good, working order periodically
Make sure to have a yearly insurance review with your agent or broker to discuss your coverages, and any policy changes and gain understanding and security that you have the right policies, limits, and deductibles in place.