You’re going back north for the summer. I get it. You want to avoid the harsh summer heat and hurricane threats that come with Florida summers. However, your home is going nowhere. It will have to withstand the moisture … the heat … the hurricanes and torrential rainstorms.
Before you say goodbye to your home for a few months, give it some TLC. Let it be on top, so you have a cozy place to come back to when you return.
Sure! You have insurance, but it’s never fun to handle a claim.
Here is a quick checklist that will give you peace of mind when you are away:
- Check the water heater and its connections for signs of leakage.
- Look for any pipes and taps under your sinks for signs of leakage.
- Dishwasher – Check the base and hose connections for signs of leakage.
- Refrigerator – Check ice machine wiring.
- Toilets – inspect all connections and the internal parts.
- Sealing shower and bath – do they need to be repaired?
- Washing machine hoses – consider replacing with stainless steel hoses.
- Roof – loose shingles or deterioration? Repair before the rainy season strikes.
- Gutters – Have they been cleaned recently and are they flowing properly?
- Window – check seals and replace any damaged ones.
- Check your A / C drains. These can become clogged and cause backups.
- Update your insurance agent (maybe we are) or insurance company with your new contact information. You do not want to miss an invoice or cancellation.
- Recruit a friend or neighbor to check your home often. Show them where the water supply is off and how to work with your air conditioner if they need to make adjustments.
- Set your air conditioner to a level that will circulate and remove moisture. Contact your AC service company for the best setting.
- Finally, before going out, turn off the water supply. IMPORTANT – Many insurance companies now require you to drain the system and appliances if the home is even 30 days or more. Read your policy or consult your agent for more information.
When you are away:
- Monitor water bills for any changes … especially increases.
- Check with your neighbor or friend to thank them for taking care of your home.
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