Summer is meant to be enjoyed. Whether you’re heading away for a long weekend, a family vacation, or an overseas adventure, taking a few minutes to prepare your home before you leave can help you head off with confidence and enjoy your time away.
Before you lock the door, run through these 10 simple home preparation tips to help ensure everything is in order while you’re gone – so you can spend less time thinking about home and more time making the most of your vacation.
Lock Up and Double Check
It may sound obvious, but it’s worth taking one final walk through your home before you leave.
Make sure:
- All doors and windows are locked
- The garage door is closed
- Basement and second-storey windows are secure
- Outdoor sheds and storage areas are locked
A quick double-check can provide added peace of mind before you hit the road.
Set Lights on Timers
A home that appears lived in is often less attractive to potential thieves. Using timers or smart lighting to turn lights on and off at different times throughout the evening can create the impression that someone is home. if you have smart technology, you can also control lights remotely while you’re away.
Pause Deliveries or Ask a Neighbour for Help
An overflowing mailbox or packages sitting on the front porch can quickly signal that no one is home. Before you leave, consider:
- Pausing your mail or newspaper delivery
- Asking a trusted neighbour to collect packages
- Having a friend stop by every few days to check on your property
It’s also a great opportunity to return the favour when they’re away.
Help Prevent Water Damage
Water damage is one of the most common home insurance claims, and a few simple checks before you leave can help reduce the risk.
Before heading out:
- Inspect faucets and visible plumbing for leaks
- Check appliance hoses for signs of wear
- Make sure your sump pump is working properly
- If you’ll be away for an extended period, consider turning off your home’s main water supply, if appropriate
If you’re unsure whether this is the right step for your home, your broker can help answer any questions.
Prepare for Summer Weather
Ontario summers can bring sudden thunderstorms, strong winds and heavy rainfall. Before you go, spend some time:
- Securing patio furniture and umbrellas
- Trimming any weak or damaged tree branches
- Clearing debris from gutters and downspouts
- Store outdoor cushions and valuables inside if severe weather s in the forecast
A few minutes of preparation can help ensure everything is ready for whatever Mother Nature has in store.
Adjust Your Thermostat
There’s no need to keep your home as cool as you would while you’re there, but it’s generally a good idea to avoid turning your air conditioning off completely.
Maintaining a moderate indoor temperature can help control humidity and protect your home during Ontario’s warmer months.
Test Smoke Alarms and Security Systems
Before you leave, take a moment to ensure your home’s safety systems are working as expected. Check that:
- Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms have fresh batteries
- Your monitored alarm system is armed and functioning properly
- Security cameras and smart doorbells are connected and sending notifications
If you use a monitored security service, you may also want to let them know you’ll be away.
Be Mindful of What You Share Online
Sharing vacation photos is part of the fun- but consider waiting until you return home before posting them publicly.
Real-time updates can unintentionally let others know your home is occupied. Saving those photos until you’re back lets you enjoy your trip while keeping your travel plans more private.
Review Your Home Insurance
Vacation season is a great reminder to make sure your home insurance still reflects your needs. Ask yourself:
- Have you completed any recent renovations?
- Have you purchased valuable items that should be added to your policy?
- Do you understand what your policy requires if you’ll be away for an extended period?
If you’re unsure, your insurance broker can help review your coverage and answer any questions before you leave.
Make an Emergency Contact List
Leave a trusted friend, family member or neighbour with your contact information and a spare key if you’re comfortable doing so.
It may also be helpful to provide them with:
- Your travel itinerary
- Contact information for someone travelling with you
- The phone number for your alarm monitoring company (if applicable)
- Instructions on how to reach you in case of an emergency
Knowing someone can be reached if needed can provide extra peace of mind while you’re away.
Enjoy Your Vacation with Confidence
Preparing your home before you leave doesn’t have to take long, but it can make all the difference in helping you head away feeling organized and ready to relax.
Whether you’re escaping for a weekend or embarking on a larger adventure, a little planning now means you can focus on what really matters – making memories with the people you care about.
If you have any questions about your home insurance coverage or you’re planning an extended trip, the team at McFarlan Rowlands is always here to help.