David’s Essential Guide to Protecting Your Home When You're Away

Many people assume property management services are only for vacation homes or seasonal properties. In reality, many homeowners leave their primary residence unattended for extended periods of time.

Whether traveling frequently for work, spending winters in a warmer climate, managing rental properties from afar, or simply being away for long stretches, an unoccupied home can quickly develop issues if no one is watching over it.

At DCN Property Management, we regularly help homeowners protect their properties while they are away. Over the years we have seen firsthand how small problems—such as a water leak, heating failure, or power outage—can turn into major damage when a home sits unattended.

Fortunately, there are several simple tools and monitoring devices that can greatly reduce those risks.

Below are some of the most useful technologies homeowners can consider to help monitor and protect their homes remotely.

Water Leak Detection
Unexpected water leaks are one of the most common issues discovered during property inspections. Even a small drip from a supply line or appliance can cause significant damage if it continues unnoticed.
Water leak detectors are small sensors that alert homeowners when moisture is detected.

Popular devices homeowners often consider include:
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• Govee WiFi Water Leak Detector – simple setup and multiple sensors
• Moen Smart Leak Detector – includes humidity and temperature monitoring
• YoLink Leak Detection System – known for its long wireless range

Leak sensors are typically placed near:

• water heaters

• washing machines

• kitchen sinks

• sump pumps

• refrigerator water lines

David’s Tip:
When installing leak sensors, start near the water heater and washing machine. These appliances are among the most common sources of unexpected leaks.

Smart Thermostats for Temperature Monitoring
Temperature monitoring is especially important during colder months. If a heating system stops working, interior temperatures can drop quickly and frozen pipes can develop.

Smart thermostats allow homeowners to monitor and adjust their home's temperature from anywhere.

Devices homeowners frequently choose include:

• ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium
• Google Nest Thermostat
• Honeywell Home Smart Thermostat

These devices can also provide alerts if temperatures fall below a safe level.

Security Cameras for Remote Visibility
Security cameras allow homeowners to check on their property at any time using a smartphone.

Modern cameras offer features such as:

• motion detection alerts

• live video viewing

• night vision

• mobile notifications

Some commonly used systems include:

• Blink Outdoor Camera System
• Ring Spotlight Camera
• Arlo Essential Security Camera

Outdoor cameras placed near entryways, driveways, and garages provide helpful visibility when homeowners are away.

Smart Locks for Controlled Access
Smart locks allow homeowners to manage entry to their home without relying solely on physical keys.
These locks allow you to:

• lock or unlock doors remotely

• create temporary access codes

• change codes for service providers or guests

Popular options homeowners often consider include:

• Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt
• Yale Assure Smart Lock
• August Smart Lock

Smart locks can be particularly useful for homes with service providers, property managers, or short-term rental guests.

Basement Monitoring and Moisture Control
Basements can be particularly vulnerable to moisture issues, especially during seasonal changes or heavy rains.

Helpful monitoring tools include:

• Govee WiFi Hygrometer Thermometer – monitors humidity levels
• Basement Watchdog Sump Pump Alarm – alerts homeowners if sump pump water levels rise unexpectedly
• hOmeLabs Basement Dehumidifier – helps control excess moisture

These devices can provide early warning signs of potential moisture problems.

Why Monitoring Tools Matter
While no technology replaces regular property inspections, these tools allow homeowners to stay connected to their homes even when they are away.

Remote monitoring devices help homeowners:

• detect problems early

• respond quickly to alerts

• maintain peace of mind while traveling

For many homeowners, these simple systems provide an additional layer of protection between property visits.

David’s Most Recommended Home Monitoring ToolsFor homeowners who want a simple way to begin monitoring their property remotely, these tools are among the most commonly used: 

• Govee WiFi Water Leak Detector
• ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium
• Blink Outdoor Camera System
• Basement Watchdog Sump Pump Alarm

These devices help homeowners detect potential problems early and stay connected to their property while they are away.

Final Thoughts
Leaving your home unattended for extended periods does not have to be stressful. With proper preparation and the right monitoring tools, homeowners can greatly reduce the risk of unexpected issues developing while they are away.
Technology has made it easier than ever to stay connected to your property. Combined with regular property checks, these tools help ensure your home remains safe, secure, and well cared for. 

Need Someone to Check on Your Home While You're Away?
DCN Property Management provides professional home watch and property oversight services throughout Concord, Acton, Carlisle, Lincoln, and surrounding Massachusetts communities. Regular property checks help ensure that small issues are identified early before they become costly repairs.
 
Contact DCN Property Management to learn more.

About the Author
David Nicholson is the owner of DCN Property Management and has spent more than a decade helping homeowners monitor and maintain their properties throughout Concord, Lincoln, Carlisle, Acton, and surrounding Massachusetts communities.

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