You should know that an empty house deteriorates faster. Timely maintenance and upkeep are what help retain your house’s glow.
Unfortunately, with the pandemic making rounds, many folks have had to relocate to a different state for a new job or move in with their parents for peace of mind.
If you plan to leave your house empty for months, use our quick checklist to help you plan better.
How long would the house be empty?
Are you planning to leave your house empty for an extended time?
Are you leaving the house empty for 3 months?
Are you leaving the house empty for 6 months?
Maybe even a year?
Knowing or approximating how long you would be gone is the first thing to take care of.
If you leave a house empty for a year, it would be advisable to sell off any appliances. Some appliances may likely get damaged due to dust while you are away.
Informing Your Neighbors of Your Intentions
It would be best if you informed the surrounding residents about your extended absence.
Your neighbors can watch out for vandalism and strange people walking around.
If you ask nicely, they may also help you mow your lawn in your absence.
Make sure you exchange updated cellphone numbers for them to reach out to you.
If you trust your neighbors, you may even hand them a notarized letter that would allow them to act as a caretaker.
Informing Local Police Department Or Sheriff
Criminals are always looking for open doors and windows as they know that it is easier to break into a home. This is why some people choose to have an officer from local PD patrol their home every few days to check if anything is amiss.
Depending on where you are, this may be chargeable.
Home Security For When You’re Away
With advances in technology, various options are available for those interested in keeping an eye on their homes while they are away.
You can use an IoT security camera that streams a live feed from your front door wherever you are.
While this may sound complicated, it isn’t. You would find many easy-to-use options at your nearest Walmart store, and Amazon is anyways a click away.
Check your feeds every few days to see if anything sticks out.
Scheduled Yard Maintenance
Many landscapers now offer services wherein they take remote orders for maintenance.
Check if you have something like this available in your city.
If not, you can always ask (nicely!) your neighbors’ help.
Being Mindful of Weather Situations That Might Damage The Home
It’s important to be mindful of the weather at your home when you’re away. If you live in a storm-prone area, make sure you leave your valuables on a higher floor to minimize damages from flooding.
Cancel Your Subscriptions
Stop your newspaper delivery. Reach out to your post office and have them forward mails to your new address. Cancel any other ongoing scheduled services.
Handle Your Electrical Appliances
It would be best if you unplugged all appliances from the socket. Make sure you empty the refrigerator.
Seal your chimneys to prevent dust from settling in.
Turn Off Water
Every modern house has a water inlet that shuts down water throughout the house. Please turn it off.
Make sure you turn on every tap and faucet in your house and let the water within the pipes drain out to prevent pipe damage due to minerals present in water.
While you are at it, cover your toilets with cling film or plastic wrapping to prevent evaporation.
Close all Doors and Windows
The last on our list is also the most important. Secure all windows and doors with a lock.
If you have gaps on your door, seal them to prevent dust and insects from getting in.
With these steps in mind, you can enjoy a stress-free time away from home and return to a house that needs very little maintenance!
How Long Can You Leave A House Empty?
With frequent upkeep, you could keep your house empty safely for a year. However, you would need a caretaker or a neighbor that checks in every few months to keep your house in good condition.