Best Options for an Empty House During an Extended Absence

When planning a trip that will keep you from your home for an extended period, the last thing you want is for your empty house to become a target for burglars or to run up costly utility bills. Here are some essential steps and tips to ensure your home remains safe and secure while you're away.

1. Contacting Your Insurance Provider

Before you leave, it's imperative to contact your home insurance provider to inform them of your departure date. Most insurance policies automatically deem a house as vacant when the occupants are away for more than 30 days. It's important to check if your policy includes additional coverage for vacant homes and to secure any necessary modifications if needed. Your insurer can guide you on specific actions to take, such as arranging for periodic visits or setting up timers for security lights.

2. Taking Care of the Home Infrastructure

Several essential aspects of your home require attention to prevent damage or accidents while you're gone. First, close the main water shut-off valve at the street level and install a drain valve for the main water line. For the water heater, set it to the "Vacation" mode to prevent it from running unnecessarily. Contact your local post office to have all your mail redirected to a known address or held until your return. This not only keeps your home from looking unoccupied but also protects the integrity of your mail's security.

3. Maintaining Property Value and Safety

Secure your home with a security system. Hiring a monitored home security service like ADT can provide peace of mind, as they can alert authorities if unusual activity is detected. If you prefer a less expensive option, consider installing a Double Deadbolt on both front and back doors. This ensures that anyone who wants to enter or leave the property needs a key. Regularly maintaining the exterior of your home is also crucial, especially during different seasons. Hire a neighbor or friend to keep your lawn neatly maintained, and in the winter, arrange for them to clear your walkways and driveways. This small act can extend the life of your property and keep it attractive to potential buyers or occupants.

4. Preventing Utility Costs and Safety Hazards

Avoid incurring significant utility bills by addressing each potential cost. For instance, pay off any outstanding bills, especially for services like electricity, gas, and water. To prevent gas leaks, close the valves feeding your stove and dryer before you leave, since newer models do not use always-on pilot lights. Unplugging or turning off major appliances can also help to avoid potential electrical hazards. If you have expensive electronics, such as flat-screen TVs, consider removing them to store them safely until your return. Dealing with utilities in advance is crucial to prevent any issues that might arise during your absence.

5. Securing Valuables and Protecting Privacy

Your house should always feel like a home, even when it's empty. To minimize the risk of theft and protect your privacy, consider the placement of external doors and windows. Lock all doors and windows, and consider installing security cameras to monitor the premises. Additionally, stop newspaper subscriptions and other deliveries to reduce the chances of your absence being detected. Turn off the power to all electrical outlets, especially those with valuable electronics, and consider investing in power strips that can be easily turned off when not in use.

Conclusion

Maintaining a safe and secure empty house is essential for both your peace of mind and the value of your property. By taking the necessary steps to communicate with your insurance provider, managing your home's infrastructure, maintaining its appearance, and securing its valuables, you can ensure that your home is protected in your absence.

Keywords: home security, property maintenance, extended absence, empty house, home insurance