How to Prepare Your Home for Extended Time Away

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Have you ever wondered how to make sure your home stays safe and well-maintained while you’re away for an extended time? Whether it’s for work, a long vacation, or other plans, leaving your home unoccupied for weeks or months requires careful preparation. From organizing your belongings to securing your property, there are several steps that can give you peace of mind while you’re gone.

For residents in Opelika, AL, this preparation might also include planning for weather changes or storing items that won’t be in use. Whether your time away involves staying in another city or traveling abroad, a well-prepared home reduces the risk of returning to unexpected issues. By addressing key tasks ahead of time, you can focus on your trip without worrying about what you left behind.

In this blog, we will share practical tips to help you prepare your home for extended time away.

Declutter and Clean

Start by decluttering and cleaning your home. A clean house makes it easier to avoid returning to unwanted surprises, like pests or unpleasant odors. Go through each room and get rid of items you don’t need or use. Donate, recycle, or throw away anything that is unnecessary.

Give your home a deep clean. Vacuum carpets, wipe down surfaces, and take out all the trash. Cleaning your refrigerator and pantry is especially important. Remove perishable items that might spoil while you’re gone.

Decide What to Do with Your Belongings

If you’re going to be away for a long time, think about how to store your belongings. Leaving everything at home might not always be the best option, especially if you need extra space or worry about certain items being damaged. Renting a storage unit is a smart way to keep your things safe and organized.

You could look up storage units Opelika AL to find reliable local options. Check online reviews and take the time to research thoroughly before making a choice. Storage units are ideal for furniture, seasonal items, or anything you want to keep in a secure place. This gives you peace of mind while you’re away and frees up space in your home.

Adjust Your Utilities

Take a look at your utilities before you leave. Turn off unnecessary appliances and adjust your thermostat to save energy. During the summer, set the air conditioning to a higher temperature. In the winter, lower the heat to save on costs, but keep it warm enough to prevent pipes from freezing.

Unplug electronics like TVs, computers, and small kitchen appliances. These steps not only save money but also reduce the risk of electrical issues while you’re gone.

Secure Doors and Windows

Check all your doors and windows to make sure they lock properly. Replace any broken locks and reinforce weak entry points. Use deadbolts on main doors for added security.

If your home has a sliding glass door, place a wooden dowel or security bar in the track to prevent it from being forced open. Close curtains or blinds to keep your home private and make it harder for anyone to see inside.

Use Smart Home Technology

Smart home devices can help you keep an eye on your home while you’re away. Consider installing a security camera system that lets you monitor your property remotely. Motion-activated lights are another great option for deterring intruders.

A smart thermostat allows you to adjust your home’s temperature from anywhere. You can also use smart plugs to control lights and appliances, giving the appearance that someone is home.

Notify a Trusted Neighbor or Friend

Make sure to let a reliable neighbor or friend know you’ll be away. Ask them to keep an eye on your property and take care of things like picking up mail or packages. A cluttered mailbox or deliveries left outside can make it obvious no one is home.

If you’re comfortable, give them a spare key so they can access your home in case of an emergency. Having someone nearby to check in now and then adds a layer of security and gives you peace of mind while you’re gone.

Take Care of Outdoor Areas

Pay attention to your yard and outdoor spaces before you leave. Make sure to mow the lawn and trim any overgrown plants so everything looks neat. If you’re going to be away for a while, ask someone to take care of the yard, like watering plants or keeping the grass in check.

Secure any outdoor furniture or loose items that could be damaged by bad weather or taken. A tidy, cared-for yard gives the appearance that someone is still around, which can help keep your home less of a target for intruders. Taking these steps makes a big difference in how your home looks and stays safe while you’re away.

Handle Mail and Subscriptions

Put a hold on your mail or forward it to a trusted address if you’ll be gone for a long time. You can request this through your local post office.

Pause any subscriptions, such as newspapers or meal deliveries, to avoid them piling up while you’re away. These small steps prevent clutter and make it less obvious that no one is home.

Plan for Your Return

Think about what you’ll need when you come back. Leave a few basic items accessible, like clean clothes, toiletries, and non-perishable food. This way, you won’t have to dig through packed belongings or rush to the store as soon as you get back.

Consider scheduling professional cleaning or maintenance services if you want your home to be in perfect condition upon your return. Planning for your return makes settling back in much easier.

Double-Check Before Leaving

Before you leave, take one final walk-through of your home. Check that all appliances are off, windows and doors are locked, and everything is in its place. Go through your checklist to make sure you haven’t forgotten anything.

This last step gives you peace of mind, knowing that your home is safe and ready for your time away.

All in all, leaving your home for an extended period can feel overwhelming, but taking the right steps makes all the difference. By preparing your space, securing your belongings, and planning ahead, you can enjoy your time away without constant worry.

As you step away from home, remember that preparation is key. The effort you put in today will let you focus on your time away and look forward to coming back to a well-maintained, secure home.