Protecting Your Home While Traveling: Expert Tips

Understanding Common Risks

Traveling has become an essential part of many people's lives. Whether you're a retiree, a digital nomad hopping between continents, or simply someone lucky enough to enjoy extended getaways, a big question looms: What happens to your home while you're away? An empty house can become a source of anxiety due to maintenance issues and security concerns. However, with the right preparation, you can relax and enjoy your journey.

Preparation Before You Leave

When planning an extended absence from home, ensuring your house is secure is crucial. According to home maintenance expert Kyshawn Lane, the first step is to assess your home's condition before you leave. Common issues like water leaks, system malfunctions, and security breaches can lead to costly repairs. Therefore, protecting your home goes beyond just locking doors and windows.

Home Protection Tips

Don’t forget regular maintenance: Clean gutters and service your HVAC system to minimize damage risks.
Seal any small openings to prevent wildlife from entering.
Replace batteries in smoke detectors to ensure safety.
Install a smart water valve, like Moen Flo, to automatically shut off water in case of leaks.

If you're having trouble turning off the main water valve before you leave, HomeX's Remote Assist tool can connect you with a technician via phone or video for guidance.

Home Energy Management

Before departing, make sure to unplug unnecessary appliances to save energy. In winter, pay attention to protecting pipes from freezing, while in summer, humidity control is key. A smart thermostat like Google Nest allows you to monitor and adjust your home’s temperature remotely, ensuring you don’t return to an overly hot or cold house.

Managing Your Mail

A full mailbox can make your home look deserted. Instead of asking a friend or family member to check in, consider using USPS’s mail hold service to pause mail delivery for up to 30 days. You can also utilize a virtual mailbox service like iPostal1 to receive notifications about your mail. If you can’t postpone deliveries, a smart package box like Loxx Boxx can protect your packages from thieves.

Creating the Illusion of Occupancy

Another effective way to deter burglars is to create the illusion that someone is still home. You might hire a lawn care service for regular maintenance or use a timer for your indoor lights to create a lived-in look. Smart lights like Philips Hue have vacation modes that program lights to turn on and off randomly, rather than on a set schedule.

Investing in Smart Security

Instead of hiding a spare key under a flower pot, consider investing in a smart lock like Schlage. The Schlage app allows you to create temporary codes for pet sitters or neighbors checking on your home. Additionally, security systems like Ring and Nest offer cameras and motion sensors to help you monitor your home remotely.

Preparing for Insurance Claims

Even with thorough preparation, unfortunate events can happen. Many homeowners' insurance policies may change if your home is considered “unoccupied” after 30 to 60 days. Carefully review your insurance policy to see if there are any clauses regarding an empty home and whether you need any additional coverage.

Sharing photos and videos of your home’s condition can also be crucial for future insurance claims. This documentation provides clear evidence if needed.