10 Things to Do Before Leaving Your House for an Extended Trip

A Homeowner Checklist for Peace of Mind

Leaving your home for an extended trip—whether for business travel, a seasonal move, or a long vacation—requires more preparation than simply locking the door. Homes are complex systems that continue to operate even when no one is there.

A little preparation before leaving can help prevent unexpected issues while you are away and make returning home much more pleasant.

At DCN Property Management, we regularly help homeowners throughout Concord, Lincoln, Carlisle, Acton, and surrounding Massachusetts communities prepare their homes before extended travel. Over the years we’ve seen how a few simple steps can prevent costly surprises.

Here is a practical checklist homeowners can use before leaving their home unattended.

1. Set the Thermostat to a Safe Temperature
During colder months, maintaining a minimum temperature helps prevent frozen pipes. Most homeowners keep the thermostat set around 55°F when the home is vacant. Smart thermostats such as the ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium or Google Nest Thermostat allow homeowners to monitor their home’s temperature remotely.

2. Shut Off Unnecessary Water Sources
If possible, consider shutting off water supply lines to appliances such as washing machines or ice makers.
This can help reduce the risk of water leaks while you are away.

3. Install Water Leak Detectors
Small water leak detectors can alert homeowners immediately if moisture is detected. Devices such as the Govee WiFi Water Leak Detector or Moen Smart Leak Detector can be placed near:

• water heaters
• sinks
• washing machines
• sump pumps

These sensors can provide early warning if a leak develops.

4. Secure Windows and Doors
Walk through your home and verify that all windows and doors are fully closed and locked.
Pay particular attention to:

• basement windows
• sliding doors
• garage entry doors

Smart locks such as the Schlage Encode Smart Lock allow homeowners to verify door status remotely.

5. Arrange for Mail and Deliveries
Overflowing mail or packages can signal that a home is unoccupied.
Options include:

• placing a temporary mail hold
• asking a neighbor to collect mail
• scheduling delivery pauses

6. Check Your Sump Pump
Spring rains and melting snow can put pressure on basement drainage systems.
Before leaving, confirm that your sump pump is operating properly. Some homeowners install devices such as the Basement Watchdog Water Alarm to detect rising water levels.

7. Use Smart Cameras
Security cameras allow homeowners to monitor their property remotely. Systems like the Blink Outdoor Camera System or Ring Spotlight Camera provide live video and motion alerts.
Outdoor cameras are especially useful near entryways and driveways.

8. Adjust Lighting
Using timers or smart plugs to turn lights on and off periodically can make a home appear occupied.
This simple step can deter unwanted attention.

9. Inspect the Exterior
Before leaving, walk around the outside of your home and check for:

• loose branches near the house
• clogged gutters
• exterior damage

Addressing small issues ahead of time can help prevent problems while you are away.

10. Arrange Regular Property Checks
Even with modern technology, nothing replaces a physical home inspection.
Regular property checks can help identify issues such as:

• heating system failures
• water leaks
• storm damage
• security concerns

Many homeowners find that knowing someone is periodically checking their home provides valuable peace of mind while they are away.

Final Thoughts
Preparing your home before extended travel does not have to be complicated. A simple checklist and a few monitoring tools can help ensure your home remains safe and well maintained while you are away.
By taking these preventative steps, homeowners can travel with greater confidence knowing their property is protected.
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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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