How to Arrange for Property Checks While Away
Complete checklist with climate-adjusted recommendations
Overview
Ask a neighbor or hire a property manager to check weekly for leaks, pests, and security.
Step-by-Step Guide
Decide on a checker — neighbor, friend, or professional
A trusted neighbor can handle quick visual inspections. For extended absences (30+ days), consider hiring a property management company or professional house-sitting service that carries liability insurance.
Create a written property check checklist
List every item the checker should verify: water leaks under sinks and around water heater, thermostat set correctly, no pest evidence, windows and doors secure, no unusual odors, mail and packages collected, and landscaping not overgrown.
Provide access and emergency contacts
Give the checker a house key, alarm code, and Wi-Fi password. Provide your contact number, a local emergency contact, and numbers for your plumber, electrician, and HVAC technician.
Show the checker key systems
Walk them through the location of the main water shut-off valve, electrical panel, HVAC thermostat, and sump pump. Demonstrate how to shut off the water main in case of a leak emergency.
Set a check schedule and reporting method
Agree on weekly visits at minimum. Have the checker text or email photos of the thermostat reading, any standing water, and the general condition of each visit. Use a shared photo album or note app for documentation.
Prepare the home for easy inspection
Leave interior doors open so the checker can see and smell every room quickly. Set lights on timers for security and to help the checker navigate. Place flashlights in accessible locations.
Address insurance requirements
Many homeowner insurance policies require the home be checked every 48-72 hours during winter or vacancy periods. Verify your policy terms and keep a log of all check-in dates to protect your coverage.
What You'll Need
Tools
- - Printed checklist for the checker
- - Spare house key
- - Light timers or smart plugs
Materials
- - Emergency contact card (laminated or printed)
- - Flashlights with fresh batteries
Cost Estimates
DIY Cost
$0 – $25 (gift card for a helpful neighbor)
Professional Cost
$50 – $150 per visit (professional property check service)
Safety Tips
- Never post on social media that your home is unoccupied.
- Consider installing smart leak detectors at the water heater, under kitchen and bathroom sinks, and near the washing machine.
- If using a professional service, verify they carry general liability insurance.
When to Call a Professional
Hire a professional property management or house-sitting service for absences longer than one month, for vacation homes in remote areas, or when your insurance requires documented professional checks.
Pro Tip
Install a smart thermostat and Wi-Fi-enabled water leak sensors before you leave. They provide real-time alerts and let you adjust settings remotely — even if your checker misses something.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not providing a written checklist, leading to incomplete inspections.
- Forgetting to show the checker the water shut-off valve location.
- Assuming homeowner insurance covers vacancy without verifying the policy terms.
- Leaving the home in a state where the checker cannot easily see all rooms (closed doors, cluttered paths).
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