Preparing Your Home for Absence: The Ultimate Guide

Key Takeaways

• Start preparing your home for absence early to avoid last-minute stress.
• Consider enlisting the help of a trusted neighbor or friend.
• Don’t forget about essential home maintenance tasks. Learn more here at our Home Watch Tips.
• Think about potential security issues and how to address them.
• Remember that preparing your home for absence is an investment into your peace of mind.

Getting Started with Preparing Your Home for Absence

Foremost, it’s essential to start preparations early. This way, you have enough time to address any unforeseen issues. When you’re preparing your home for absence, consider making a detailed checklist of tasks.

Enlisting Help While Preparing Your Home for Absence

Can you think of a neighbor or friend who could help out while you’re away? If so, they could be an invaluable resource. They can collect your mail, water your plants, or just keep an eye on your place. Always remember to return the favor when they need it, and perhaps offer a small gift as a thank you.

Essential Maintenance Tasks for Preparing Your Home for Absence

Preparing your home for absence involves completing essential maintenance tasks. For instance, cleaning out the refrigerator, setting your thermostat, and checking your smoke detectors are all important tasks that should be on your checklist.

Refrigerator

Before leaving, ensure that all perishables are removed from your refrigerator. This reduces the risk of unpleasant smells or mold growth during your absence.

Thermostat

Adjust your thermostat to a safe and energy-efficient setting. If you’re leaving during the winter, set it to a temperature that prevents pipes from freezing. In summer, aim for a setting that doesn’t overwork your air conditioning system.

Smoke Detectors

Check your smoke detectors to ensure they’re working properly. This simple step can provide significant peace of mind while preparing your home for absence.

Security Considerations

Security is a major concern when preparing your home for absence. Here are a few tips to help keep your home safe:

Light Timers

Using light timers can create the illusion of activity in your home, deterring potential burglars.

Hold Your Mail

Overflowing mailboxes can signal that your home is empty. Ask your local post office to hold your mail until you return or have a trusted individual collect it for you.

Home Security System

If you have a home security system, make sure it’s activated before you leave. If you don’t have one, consider investing in one. For more information on home security systems, check out this comprehensive guide from a trusted source ADT Alarm Systems.

FAQs About Preparing Your Home for Absence

How far in advance should I start preparing my home for absence?

It’s best to start preparations at least a week in advance. This gives you ample time to complete all necessary tasks without feeling rushed.

What’s the best way to handle my mail while I’m away?

The best method is to have your local post office hold your mail until you return. Alternatively, a trusted neighbor or friend can collect it for you.

Are light timers effective for home security?

Yes, light timers can create the illusion of activity in your home, which can deter potential burglars.

Securing Doors and Windows While Preparing Your Home for Absence

First and foremost, secure every door and window. It’s easy to overlook a window in the basement or a side door. Remember, criminals seek out easy opportunities. So, make sure you don’t leave them any chances. You can also contact Non-Stop Locksmith for help with securing your home.

Consider using deadbolt locks for extra security. Additionally, reinforce doors with a security bar or use window security film. These measures make it harder for someone to break in. You can find these safety items at your local hardware store or online.

Holding Your Mail as Part of Preparing Your Home for Absence

Another important step is to hold your mail. Piles of mail or packages are a clear sign that no one is home. You can easily set up a mail hold with the U.S. Postal Service online. Additionally, don’t forget to halt newspaper delivery or ask a neighbor to gather them for you.

Using Timed Lights While Preparing Your Home for Absence

A dark house can also signal to thieves that you are not home. Use light timers in different rooms to make it appear as if someone is home. You can set these timers to go on and off at different times. This way, it looks like there’s activity in your home.

Security Systems for Preparing Your Home for Absence

If you don’t already have a security system, consider getting one. Modern systems offer features like remote monitoring and control. You can even connect some to your smartphone. This way, you can keep an eye on your home from anywhere. Look for systems from reputable companies with positive reviews.

Informing Trusted Neighbors While Preparing Your Home for Absence

Letting your trusted neighbors know about your absence can be quite helpful. They can keep an eye on your house and report any suspicious activity. They might also help with tasks like gathering mail or taking out trash cans. Remember, a good neighborhood watch can be an effective deterrent for burglars. Here you can see more Home Watch FAQ.

Hiding Your Absence While Preparing Your Home

Try to make it look like your house is occupied. This might mean leaving a car in the driveway or arranging for a friend to stop by every few days. Additionally, consider using smart home devices. They can control lights, music, and even the TV to make it seem like people are home.

Locking Up Valuables While Preparing Your Home for Absence

Make sure your valuables are secure. Consider using a home safe or a safe deposit box at your bank. This includes jewelry, important documents, and expensive electronics. Remember, out of sight is out of mind for potential burglars.

Checking Your Insurance Policy Before Preparing Your Home for Absence

Before leaving, check your homeowners or renters insurance policy. Make sure it covers thefts or damage that could happen while you’re away. If not, consider getting additional coverage. Insurance can give you peace of mind while you’re away.

Wrapping Up: The Importance of Preparing Your Home for Absence

Preparing your home for absence doesn’t have to be stressful. By following these simple tips, you can ensure your home remains safe and secure. Remember, the goal is to make your home less appealing to burglars. With a little planning, you can achieve this and enjoy your time away without worry. Also, we Provide Home Watch Inspection Services.

Still have questions about preparing your home for absence? Want to learn more about home safety? Call or Contact us now! We’re always happy to help.