What To Do With Your Home While Traveling For Work

If you're one of the many professionals who travel for work, you’re likely familiar with the challenge of managing your home while you're away. Leaving your home vacant can create some, from security and maintenance to preventing pests or ensuring your utilities stay in check.

A little planning and preparation ensures your home remains safe, secure, and in great condition during your absence.

Secure Your Home: Ensure Safety and Security

Whether you’re traveling for work, taking a long vacation, or relocating temporarily, taking steps to safeguard your home will give you peace of mind while you're away.

Lock Up Thoroughly

• Double-check all doors and windows, including sliding glass doors.
• Set your alarm system and leave a spare key with a trusted neighbor or friend.

Use Timers for Lights

• Program lights to turn on/off at specific times to create the illusion of occupancy.
• Smart lighting systems can be controlled remotely.

Activate or Upgrade Your Security System

• A security system, including cameras or motion detectors, is a good investment.
• If you already have one, ensure it’s activated and functioning properly.

Notify Trusted Neighbors

• Inform neighbors of your absence so they can help monitor your property.
• Ask them to collect mail or packages to prevent them from piling up.

Put Valuables Out of Sight

• Store valuable items like electronics, jewelry, and important documents in a locked safe or drawer.
• Secure outdoor valuables with heavy-duty locks, or bring them inside.

Keep Up with Home Maintenance

• Regularly trim bushes, fix fences, and repair lighting to make your home look well-maintained.
• Arrange for snow shoveling or lawn mowing if needed during your absence.

Clean and Prepare Your Home to Prevent Pests and Damage

A vacant house can attract unwanted guests; pests looking for food, moisture, or mold that thrives in damp, unventilated spaces. Taking the time to thoroughly clean and prepare your home before you leave can help prevent these problems and also ensure that you return to a home that’s just as comfortable as you left it.

Deep Clean the Entire Home

• Vacuum and dust all rooms, focusing on neglected areas (behind appliances, under furniture.

Clean Out the Fridge and Pantry

• Remove perishable food to prevent spoilage and odors.
• Store dry goods in airtight containers.

Take Out the Trash

• Empty all garbage cans and recycling bins, sealing bags tightly to prevent attracting pests.
• Arrange for a neighbor or friend to take out the bins while you're away.

Declutter

• Remove piles of newspapers, magazines, or boxes to prevent hiding spots for pests.
• Declutter closets, attics, and basements to maintain a clean, pest-free environment.

Check for Potential Pest Entry Points

• Inspect for cracks or gaps around doors, windows, and plumbing pipes.
• Seal openings with weatherproofing strips or caulk to prevent pests and moisture.

Inspect Plumbing and Drainage

• Ensure there’s no standing water or leaks in sinks, tubs, or toilets.
• Consider pouring vinegar or disinfectant down drains to prevent clogs and odors.

Keep an Eye on Humidity

• Consider running AC on a timer during high-humidity months.
• Water plants before leaving, but avoid overwatering to prevent mold or pests.

Storing Your Belongings

Renting a storage unit can protect your belongings from potential damage, pests, or wear and tear while you’re away.

Choose the Right Storage Option

• Opt for a larger unit for bulky items or a full household.
• Consider climate-controlled storage for sensitive items like electronics, artwork, or wood furniture.

Protect Your Furniture

• Cover large furniture with moving blankets or plastic wrap to prevent damage.
• Use protective covers for sofas and mattresses to keep dust and pests away.
• Wrap fragile items like glass tables or mirrors in bubble wrap or cardboard.

Label Boxes Clearly

• Label boxes with contents for easy access later.
• Use sturdy, stackable boxes, and consider clear bins for better visibility.
• Avoid cardboard boxes for items sensitive to moisture or pests.

Manage Utility Bills and Other Essentials

When you're away for an extended period, take a proactive approach to managing your utilities and other household essentials.

Pause or Adjust Utility Services

• Temporarily downgrade or suspend services like cable or internet to save money.
• Contact providers in advance to discuss short-term plans or reductions.

Set Up Automatic Payments

• Set up automatic payments for rent, mortgage, utilities, and regular bills.
• If you prefer not to, note due dates and arrange for a trusted person to handle payments.

Forward Your Mail

• Forward mail to a trusted person or temporary address to prevent it from piling up.
• Use the USPS mail forwarding service to ensure you don’t miss any mail.

Adjust Your Thermostat

• Set a programmable thermostat to prevent freezing pipes in winter or excessive heat in summer.
• If you don’t have a programmable thermostat, arrange for someone to check periodically.

Consider Home Insurance Coverage

• Review your home insurance to ensure it covers issues while you're away (e.g., storms, water leaks).
• Renters should confirm insurance coverage with the landlord.

Keep Essential Services Active

• Keep services like water, electricity, and heat running to prevent damage (e.g., frozen pipes).
• Have someone check the plumbing by periodically running the water, especially in colder months.

‍Unplug Electronics

• Unplug unnecessary electronics to reduce energy use and prevent electrical issues or power surges.

Prepare Your Home for Your Return

While it’s easy to focus on preparing your home for your time away, it's equally important to plan for your return.

Arrange for Cleaning Services

• Hire a cleaning service to tidy up while you're away or upon your return.
• Consider deep cleaning for a fresh, spotless home after a long absence.

Check for Mold or Mildew

• Inspect areas like basements, bathrooms, and kitchens for mold or mildew.
• Address any mold issues quickly and consider a professional inspection if unsure.

Inspect Your Appliances and Systems

• Check appliances and systems (heating, AC, plumbing) for proper function after your return.
• Look for leaks or damage if you've turned off water or heat while away.

Check for Any Needed Repairs

• Make a list of potential repairs (e.g., roof, foundation, leaks) to address after your return.
• Arrange for contractors or handymen if needed.

Restock Supplies

• Restock essential items like toilet paper, cleaning supplies, and food.
• Check expiry dates on fridge and pantry items to ensure freshness.

Check on Plants or Pets

• Ensure plants have been properly watered and cared for.
• Arrange for pet-sitting or check-in on pets to ensure they are well cared for.

Unpack and Settle In Slowly

• Take your time unpacking and adjusting to your home.
• Address immediate issues like bills or maintenance before tackling larger tasks to avoid feeling rushed.

Manage Financials and Paperwork

Staying on top of your finances, insurance, and important documents will ensure that everything runs while you’re gone; and will make your return even easier.

Automate Bills and Payments

• Set up automatic payments for rent, utilities, credit cards, and other recurring bills to avoid late fees while you're away.

Track Your Expenses

• Use apps or spreadsheets to track work-related travel expenses, such as meals and lodging, for reimbursement or record-keeping.

Keep Copies of Important Documents

• Make digital copies of essential documents (passport, insurance, medical records) and store them securely online for easy access.

Pay Attention to Tax Deadlines

• Be aware of tax filing deadlines and financial obligations during your absence.
• Set reminders or ask someone to monitor deadlines for you.

Designate an Emergency Contact

• Appoint someone you trust to handle urgent financial or paperwork matters while you’re away.

Traveling for work can be exciting, but it requires careful preparation to manage your home. While you can plan for common issues like utilities or pest control, it’s important to stay ready for the unexpected, whether it’s a change in travel plans, an emergency, or a sudden repair. Being organized and proactive gives you the flexibility to handle anything that arises.

By preparing your home and managing your finances in advance, you can focus on your work or travel without worry. The more you plan before leaving, the less you'll have to deal with while you're gone.

Contact us today at (718) 619-4881 for all your moving needs.