This guide to off-season vacation home preparation will help you keep cold weather from damaging your vacation home and prepare it for next year’s sunny retreats.
Let Your Insurance Company Know
Notifying your insurance company that your property will be vacant when you depart for the off-season is crucial. . The insurance company may have requirements that must be fulfilled to guarantee that your vacation house is adequately covered while you are away.
Fridge, Pantry, and Freezer
Empty the refrigerator, dispose of or give away perishable items, and clean the inside. Items from the pantry that can draw rats and other pests include flour, sugar, cereal, and unsealed dry goods. Ensure unopened and canned goods are kept in sealed containers off the ground.
Plumbing
Safeguarding the plumbing system against subfreezing temperatures is one of the most important parts of closing a vacation house. You must drain pipes to keep freezing water from busting them. Remember to maintain your water heater and other fixtures as well. Drain and unplug the water heater, then use foam sleeves to insulate any exposed pipes. Sprinkler systems and outside hoses should be disconnected and drained.
Prep Inside the House
Cover furniture with sheets to keep it free from dust. Remove valuables from the house or keep them in a safe. Place mothballs in closets and drawers to ward off insects and seal any gaps or fractures in the walls and foundation to keep animals out. Place mouse traps in key areas, and, for expert prevention, consider working with a pest control company.
Make sure your carbon monoxide and smoke alarms are working properly to prevent fire damage. Eliminate any combustible items from the house, disconnect superfluous electrical appliances, and tidy the chimney.
Outside the Home
For added security, install deadbolts on all external doors and think about installing window locks or security films. To create the illusion of occupancy, you could also employ timed lighting within or put motion-sensor lights around the outside. To shield patio furniture from weather damage, cover or store it. Prevent cracking and remove hanging plants and empty planters. Safeguard every point of access into your house, checking and fixing any broken window or door seals and adding storm windows and doors as necessary.
General Cleaning Checklist
- Deep clean: Give the bathrooms, windows, floors, and surfaces a thorough cleaning.
- Launder linens: Wash, dry, and stash all curtains, towels, and bed linens.
- Declutter and organize: Bring anything you won’t need for the upcoming season home or donate it.
- Add antifreeze: To keep pipes from freezing, pour antifreeze into sinks, bathtubs, and toilets.
- Examine the filters: If necessary, clean or replace the HVAC filters.
- Alert the property manager or nearby neighbors to keep an eye on the property.
- Pool or hot tub: If you have a pool or hot tub, winterize it by draining and covering it.
- Revise your contact details: Give neighbors or property management your most recent contact information in case of an emergency.
Are you looking to enter the real estate market this fall? Give us a call today! One of the experienced agents at Zoocasa will be more than happy to help you through the exciting home-buying process!
