How to Vacation-Proof Your Home This Summer

Summer travel is a welcome break, but leaving your home unattended can invite avoidable headaches. A little preparation before you go can help your home stay safe, efficient, and ready to welcome you back.

Secure the Entrances and Visible Areas

Homes that look lived-in tend to draw less unwanted attention. Before you leave, walk the property and consider a few simple steps:

Lock every door and window, including garage and basement access points that are easy to overlook.
Avoid hiding spare keys in obvious spots; leave one with a trusted neighbor instead.
Use timers or smart plugs so a few lamps turn on in the evening.
Pause mail and package deliveries, since a pile at the door signals an empty house.

Protect Against Water Damage

Water issues are among the most common and costly problems for homes left alone. A burst supply line or a slow leak can do real harm over a week or two with no one to notice.

Check under sinks and around appliances for any existing drips.
Consider shutting off the main water supply if no one will be home, or at least the valves to the washing machine and dishwasher.
Inspect your water heater area for moisture before you leave.
If you have an irrigation system, confirm it is set sensibly so it is not running constantly.

Manage Temperature and Energy Use

You do not need to cool an empty house the way you would a full one. Adjusting your thermostat a few degrees can ease energy use while still protecting the home and any belongings sensitive to heat or humidity. A programmable or smart thermostat can let you check conditions remotely and make changes from the road.

Small Energy Steps Before You Go

Unplug electronics that draw power even when idle.
Empty perishable food and take out the trash.
Close blinds or shades to reduce heat from direct sun.

Tend to the Yard and Exterior

An overgrown lawn is another quiet signal that no one is home. If you will be away long enough for the yard to look neglected, arrange for someone to mow or maintain it. Move grills, ladders, and tools into a locked area, and clear walkways so nothing looks abandoned.

Set Up a Trusted Check-In Plan

Even with good preparation, having a real person stop by can make a meaningful difference. Ask a neighbor, friend, or family member to:

Walk through periodically and glance for anything unusual.
Bring in any stray mail, flyers, or packages.
Adjust curtains or lights occasionally so patterns vary.
Know how to reach you and where the main shutoffs are.

Leaving an emergency contact list and a few simple instructions can turn a vague favor into genuine peace of mind.

Review Your Coverage and Documents

Before a longer trip, it is worth confirming you understand your homeowners insurance basics and where important documents live. Knowing how to file a claim and keeping a quick photo inventory of valuables can save stress if something does happen while you are away. This is also a good moment to make sure smoke and carbon monoxide detectors have working batteries.

Use Technology Thoughtfully

Connected devices can extend your awareness without much effort. A video doorbell, a couple of sensors, or a smart lock may let you monitor activity and grant access to a house-sitter remotely. Just be sure your home network and any apps are protected with strong passwords so the convenience does not become a vulnerability.

A Final Walk-Through Before You Lock Up

A short checklist by the door can catch the last-minute items: appliances off, water addressed, thermostat set, lights timed, and a trusted contact informed. Taking ten unhurried minutes before you leave often prevents the kind of surprise that can cut a vacation short.

If summer travel has you thinking about your home and your bigger financial picture, the team at Clayhouse is always glad to chat when the timing suits you.

This article is general educational information, not financial or lending advice, and not a commitment to lend. Programs, eligibility, and terms vary by situation. Clayhouse Mortgage · Equal Housing Opportunity.