Simple Ways to Protect Your Home During Vacation Season

Summer is one of the most popular times of year for travel. Whether you're heading to Eastern Washington for a long weekend, visiting family, or taking a much-needed vacation, it's important to spend a little time preparing your home before you leave.

Most homeowners don't worry about their property when they're home. Small leaks, unusual noises, drainage issues, or power outages are often noticed quickly. But when a house sits unattended for several days or weeks, even minor problems can become much bigger issues.

Fortunately, a little preparation can go a long way.

Start With Home Security

One of the easiest ways to make your home less attractive to potential thieves is to make it appear occupied.

Consider:

• Using timers on interior lights

• Leaving a vehicle in the driveway if possible

• Having a neighbor occasionally move trash bins

• Pausing mail and package deliveries

• Asking a trusted friend to check on the property

Today's smart home technology also makes it easier than ever to monitor your home remotely through cameras, video doorbells, and mobile security apps.

Prevent Water Damage

Water damage is one of the most common and costly issues homeowners face.

Before leaving:

• Check under sinks for leaks

• Inspect washing machine hoses

• Verify your water heater is operating properly

• Clean gutters if needed

• Ensure downspouts direct water away from the foundation

For extended vacations, some homeowners choose to shut off the main water supply. If you're considering this option, consult a qualified professional to determine whether it's appropriate for your home.

Prepare Your Landscaping

A neglected yard can signal that a home is vacant.

Before departing:

• Mow the lawn

• Trim overgrown shrubs

• Remove fallen branches

• Set irrigation timers appropriately

• Ask someone to water plants if necessary

This not only improves security but also helps maintain curb appeal and protects landscaping investments.

Don't Forget Your HVAC System

Summer temperatures in the Pacific Northwest can vary significantly.

Rather than completely shutting off your HVAC system, consider setting the thermostat at an energy-efficient temperature that still protects your home.

This can help:

• Prevent excessive indoor humidity

• Protect wood floors and furniture

• Reduce stress on the system when you return

  
  

Check Your Exterior

Before leaving, take a quick walk around the property.

Look for:

• Loose fence boards

• Damaged roof areas

• Clogged drains

• Loose deck railings

• Exterior caulking that needs attention

Many maintenance issues are much easier and less expensive to address before they become emergencies.

Create a Vacation Checklist

One of the simplest ways to protect your home is to create a standard checklist you use before every trip.

Include items such as:

✓ Lock all windows and doors

✓ Set light timers

✓ Pause mail delivery

✓ Adjust thermostat

✓ Check irrigation system

✓ Empty indoor trash bins

✓ Test security devices

✓ Notify a trusted neighbor

A checklist reduces the chance of overlooking something important when you're focused on travel plans.

Final Thoughts

One thing I've noticed after years of helping homeowners throughout Kenmore, Lake Forest Park, Bothell, Shoreline, Edmonds, Lynnwood, Mountlake Terrace, Kirkland, Everett, and Lake Stevens is that successful homeownership often comes down to consistent attention to small details.

Protecting your home during vacation season doesn't require expensive upgrades or complicated systems. A few simple preventative steps can provide peace of mind while helping you avoid costly repairs later.

And if you need a recommendation for a trusted plumber, handyman, landscaper, roofer, or other home service professional before your trip, feel free to reach out. Helping homeowners find reliable resources is something I've been doing for years, whether they're buying, selling, or simply taking care of the home they already love.