If you are traveling for vacation or closing up a summer home, there’s nothing worse than coming home to a damaged home. Here are a few simple, proactive steps taken before you leave, that can reduce the likelihood of a loss occurring while you are away so you can return to a damage-free home and get on with your busy life.
Turn off your main water supply – Make sure everyone in your family knows where the main shutoff is located and how to use it.
Check for leaks – This should include pipes, under your sink, near your water heater, or along the water supply lines.
Inspect all water supply lines inside your home – this should include things like water supply lines to refrigerators, washing machines and dish washers. Replace those that show signs of wear or have not been replaced in the last 5 years.
If you have a sump pump – make sure it is in good working order and schedule annual maintenance before you leave, or add a battery-powered backup for another line of defense.
If you have a back-up generator – make sure it is in good working order and schedule annual maintenance before you leave.