Taking steps to prepare your home will keep it protected while vacant.
The freezing, New York winter is the best time to head to a warm, sandy beach for an extended vacation. If you are planning for your warm getaway, you will need to take the time to ensure your home stays safe while you are away. Use these tips to help protect your vacant home while you are away.
- Keep your heat on – even though it may seem like a waste to leave your heat on while you are away, it will help to keep your home better protected. The cold weather can cause condensation to build up in your home, which, without heat, can cause drywall and wood to mildew and rot. Set your thermostat to between 40 and 50 degrees to avoid any issues.
- Turn off your water – even with your heat left on, your water should be turned off. If the power goes out when you are away, your pipes can freeze and burst. Once you turn your water off, think about draining your pipes for added protection.
- Consider air flow – allowing air to flow freely throughout your entire home can help to prevent moisture damage. Keep all interior doors open to keep all rooms in your home protected.
- Turn off non-essential gas and electrical – any appliances and fixtures that don’t need to be powered can be turned off. Make sure you keep power going to a couple of lights on timers so your home doesn’t stay completely dark the whole time you are away or you could attract thieves.
Before you head out on vacation, take a close look at your home insurance policy to ensure you have the right amount of coverage. Contact the independent insurance professionals Perry & Carroll in Elmira, New York for all of your homeowners insurance coverage needs this season.