Vacation or business travel requires a great deal of preparation. Along with deciding what to pack and planning your itinerary, you'll also want to be sure to prepare your home for your extended absence. Consider these home preparation tips from Total Restoration Kelowna, a leader in flood, fire and storm restoration.
1. Ask Someone to Check on Things
It's a good idea to ask someone to stop by your home every few days just to check on things. You might want to request that they bring your mail inside as well.
2. Unplug Small Appliances
Before heading out the door, unplug small appliances and electronic devices like toasters, blenders, computers, wi-fi routers and televisions. This can save electricity and reduce fire hazards.
3. Program Your Thermostat
Another way to save energy is to set your thermostat according to the season. There's really no point in cooling or heating your home if no one is there. Keep it at a comfortable temperature for house or pet sitters, and be sure not to set it too low in the winter or your pipes could freeze.
4. Turn off Main Water Supply
If you're going to be gone for more than a week, you might want to turn off the main water valve to avoid the possibility of leaks.
5. Empty Trash
Empty the trash cans throughout your home to prevent odor and deter pests. Before taking out the trash, it's also wise to clean out the refrigerator of perishable items that could spoil before your return.
6. Leave a Light On
An empty house can be a target for thieves. One way to make your home appear lived-in is to leave a light on or set lights on a timer.
7. Arrange Outdoor Maintenance
Overgrown grass or snow that hasn't been shoveled are also tell-tale signs that no one is home. Arrange for a service or neighbour to take care of these things while you're away.
8. Set Up Pet Care
If you have pets, arrange for a pet sitter or book them in a kennel to ensure their safety and care.
9. Lock Up
Finally, take a moment before heading out to secure your home. Lock windows and doors, be sure to double-check seldom-used ones.
Hopefully, these tips have been useful. Now that you know what to check at home, you can enjoy your time away and rest assured that you won't return to any unwelcome surprises.
