Summer is the season of travel. Whether you’re escaping to the mountains, heading to the coast, or flying across the country to visit family, the last thing you want to worry about while you’re away is what’s happening back home.
An empty house may seem harmless, especially if you’re only gone for a week or two—but in reality, unattended properties are vulnerable to everything from water leaks and pest infestations to break-ins and power outages. That’s where home watch services come in.
A professional home watch provider gives homeowners peace of mind by regularly checking on your property and addressing issues before they become costly disasters.
What is a Home Watch Service?
A home watch service is more than just a neighbor peeking in on your house. It’s a professional service that conducts scheduled, comprehensive inspections of unoccupied properties to ensure they remain safe, secure, and well-maintained in your absence.
At Homestead Property Watch and Management Services, for example, we walk through and around your property on a regular basis, checking for signs of damage, system failures, unauthorized access, and more. We also provide detailed digital reports with photos, so you’re never in the dark about the state of your home.
Why Summer Travel Puts Your Property at Risk
During the summer, your home is at increased risk for several reasons:
1. Storm Damage
Depending on where you live, summer storms can be unpredictable and severe. High winds, heavy rain, hail, or fallen branches can cause significant damage to roofs, windows, and landscaping. If no one is there to notice, what starts as a minor leak or broken branch can turn into a much larger repair bill.
2. HVAC and Electrical Failures
With the summer heat comes increased reliance on air conditioning systems. If your HVAC system fails, indoor temperatures can skyrocket—damaging electronics, warping wood flooring, or promoting mold growth due to humidity. A home watch provider ensures that systems are running properly and can coordinate repairs if needed.
3. Water Leaks and Plumbing Issues
A burst pipe, faulty water heater, or even a small leak under a sink can cause thousands of dollars in damage if left undetected. Home watch services include thorough interior checks that help catch these problems early.
4. Break-Ins and Vandalism
Vacant homes are prime targets for opportunistic burglars. Even with security systems in place, criminals often recognize the signs of an unoccupied house. A home that is visibly checked and maintained is a strong deterrent.
5. Pests and Infestations
Summer is peak season for pests like ants, termites, rodents, and wasps. Left alone, they can quickly turn your home into a nesting ground. Home watch professionals check for signs of infestations and can arrange for pest control services as needed.
What a Home Watch Service Provides While You’re Away
Here are just a few of the things your home watch professional will check and manage during regular visits:
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Ensure all doors and windows are locked and secure
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Check HVAC operation and thermostat settings
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Look for signs of leaks, moisture, or mold
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Confirm that plumbing fixtures are not dripping or damaged
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Inspect electrical panels and breakers
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Remove mail, flyers, and packages
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Check for signs of forced entry or vandalism
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Walk the exterior to look for weather damage, fallen trees, or pest activity
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Start vehicles or run water to keep systems functioning (upon request)
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Provide reports and photos for your peace of mind
Travel Stress-Free with Homestead Property Watch
Your home is one of your most valuable investments—don’t leave it unmonitored while you’re soaking up the sun. With Homestead Property Watch and Management Services, you can travel with confidence knowing your home is in the hands of trained professionals who care.
We offer customized visit schedules based on your needs, from weekly to biweekly check-ins, and can tailor our services to include contractor access, emergency response, and storm preparation or cleanup.
Final Thoughts
Summer should be a time for relaxation—not for worrying about what might be going wrong back home. With a trusted home watch service in place, you can enjoy your vacation knowing your property is protected from the unexpected.
Don’t leave your home to chance—leave it to Homestead.
Contact us today to learn more about how we can help protect your home while you’re away this summer.
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