Travel should give you time to reconnect, relax, and enjoy the people and places that matter to you. Whether you are leaving town for a holiday gathering or taking a short getaway, it is wise to spend a few minutes getting your home ready before you go.
An empty house can be more exposed to break-ins, plumbing leaks, and other unexpected issues. Fortunately, a few straightforward steps can lower those risks and help you leave with greater peace of mind. For homeowners throughout Upland and the Inland Empire, Nauertz Insurance Agency recommends making home protection part of every travel checklist.
Lock and Check All Access Points
Before heading out, make a complete check of your home’s entry points. It is easy to lock the front door and still overlook a side entrance, an attached garage door, a gate, or a window that is rarely opened.
Walk around the exterior of your property and check all first-floor windows, doors, garage entries, and gates. A few extra minutes spent confirming that everything is secured can remove easy access points and help protect your home while it is unoccupied.
Take Steps to Avoid Water Damage
Theft may be the first concern that comes to mind when you are away, but water damage can create equally serious—and sometimes more expensive—problems. Even a small leak can turn into a major cleanup and repair project if no one notices it for several days.
If your trip will last more than a few days, consider turning off the home’s main water supply before you leave. When shutting off the main valve is not practical, you can still reduce the chance of leaks by disconnecting water lines to appliances such as the washing machine, dishwasher, and ice maker.
Taking a moment to prepare your plumbing can help you return to a comfortable home instead of water damage that needs immediate attention.
Help Your Home Appear Occupied
A home that stays dark night after night may make it clear that no one is there. Creating a lived-in appearance is a simple way to discourage unwanted attention while you are traveling.
Set indoor lamps and porch lights on timers so they turn on and off at natural times in the evening. This affordable step helps create the appearance of activity at home without requiring someone to be inside.
Light timers are a small investment that can add meaningful reassurance during your trip.
Let a Trusted Neighbor Know You Are Away
Home technology can send alerts when something happens, but it cannot bring a delivery inside, return a trash bin to its usual place, or take a closer look at suspicious activity. A trusted neighbor can provide the human attention that devices cannot.
Tell a reliable neighbor about your travel plans and ask them to keep an eye on the property. They may be able to collect packages, move bins after collection day, and spot concerns such as storm damage or lights that have been left on unexpectedly.
Having someone nearby who knows you are out of town can be especially valuable if an issue arises while you are away.
Keep Mail and Deliveries From Accumulating
A full mailbox or visible packages on the porch can quickly suggest that a home has been empty for several days. Managing deliveries before you leave helps maintain the appearance that someone is still around.
Arrange for mail to be held through the USPS hold mail service before your departure. If you expect packages, ask a friend or trusted neighbor to retrieve them until you return.
These small arrangements help prevent obvious signs of vacancy during your vacation.
Unplug Unneeded Electronics and Appliances
Another helpful precaution is to unplug electronics and appliances that do not need power while you are away. This can reduce the risk of electrical problems and leave you with one fewer concern once your trip begins.
Countertop appliances, hair tools, chargers, and portable heaters should be unplugged before you lock the door. Include a quick walkthrough in your departure routine to make sure these items have been safely powered down.
A brief final check can make a meaningful difference in keeping your home ready for your return.
Preparation Can Make Travel More Relaxing
Time away should be focused on enjoying your plans, not wondering what may be happening at home. By securing entry points, reducing water and electrical risks, managing mail, and asking someone nearby to watch the property, you can reduce exposure to common problems.
Careful preparation cannot eliminate every possibility. That is why it is also important to understand what your homeowners insurance may cover if an unexpected event occurs. Nauertz Insurance Agency helps homeowners in Upland, Rancho Cucamonga, Ontario, Claremont, Montclair, Chino Hills, Eastvale, and Fontana review their home insurance coverage with the personal attention of a local, independent insurance agency.
If you would like to review your homeowners insurance before your next trip, our team can help you better understand your policy and discuss coverage options that fit your home and needs.