It happens to all of us; we get wrapped up in planning our vacation and rushing around doing last minute errands that we often leave for vacation feeling a sense of unease. Suddenly your mind is all over the place and your heart is racing wondering if you forgot to do something or pack that last item on the list. This is all too familiar for most people at some point in their lives.
Perhaps you forgot to water your plants or give your neighbor a set of keys to look after the cats; whatever it may be, these things happen unfortunately. With better preparation and attention to detail we can ensure you enjoy your vacation and leave any worries behind. Knowing your house will be left safe and secured, will keep you protected from unforeseen accidents or theft.
Here are some helpful tips to keep in mind prior to leaving.
Two Weeks Prior to Vacation
- You may wish to let your local police department know of your vacation; especially if it’s for an extended duration. In several communities they will occasionally patrol your neighborhood, as well as check your windows and doors.
- Be sure to request a stop in daily and weekly newspaper delivery
- Preplan appropriate lawn service.
- If you have animals you’ll want to make sure they are covered
- Look at your alarm system and notify the companies that monitor your fire and burglar alarms.
- Check your outdoor sprinkler system to ensure everything is as it should be.
- If you have any current routine delivery services like groceries, make sure you cancel these temporarily
- Purchase light timers
- Organize garbage for final collection day
- Leave a key, vacation itinerary, alarm code and phone number with a family member or neighbor you trust.
Just Before Leaving
- Flush all toilets.
- Run dishwasher.
- Put thermostats higher than you normally would if you run air conditioning. Keep your air conditioning on if weather is expected to be hot and humid as otherwise mold could develop.
- Consider unplugging electrical appliances that don’t need to be plugging in.
- Turn off water to washing machine and toilets.
- Set timer lights if applicable and able to.
- Verify that all windows have been locked.
- Clean out your fridge, and throw out anything that may rot and/or expire while you’re away.
- Confirm all garbage has been removed from your home.
- Detach electric garage door openers and lock them manually instead
- Set alarm.
- Lock all doors including deadbolt locks.
Taking the time to plan and protect your house while you’re away for the summer will help you relax and enjoy your time away. Whether you are gone for two weeks or a month, these are important steps to take for peace of mind.
Get in touch with Will Marshall Insurance today for a free, no obligation quote on your home insurance.