Eighteen things to handle before you fly south — the same checklist our team runs on your home. Tick what you can; we'll take care of the rest.
Water & plumbing
1Shut off the main water supply (or unneeded zone valves) and drain exterior spigots.
2Insulate exposed pipes; open under-sink cabinets on exterior walls.
3Test the sump pump and its battery backup.
Heat & mechanicals
4Have the boiler / furnace serviced before you leave; replace filters.
5Set the thermostat no lower than 55°F to keep pipes from freezing.
6Shut off gas to unused fireplaces or appliances.
Electrical & safety
7Unplug non-essential electronics; add surge protection where it matters.
8Put a few interior lights on timers; confirm exterior lighting works.
9Replace batteries in every smoke and CO detector.
Security
10Arm and test the alarm; make sure someone trusted can reset it.
11Lock all windows and doors; secure the garage.
12Leave a key and alarm code with a trusted contact or home-watch.
Exterior & grounds
13Clean the gutters; confirm water drains away from the foundation.
14Arrange snow plowing and walkway clearing for the season.
Mail & home
15Stop or forward mail and newspapers; pause recurring deliveries.
16Empty the refrigerator of perishables, clean it, take out all trash.
Paperwork
17Confirm homeowner's insurance is current — and covers an extended vacancy.
18Give travel dates and emergency contacts to whoever watches the home.