Vacations are meant for relaxing—not worrying about what might be happening back home. Whether you're taking a weekend getaway or an extended trip, following a house checklist before vacation can help protect your property, reduce the chance of costly repairs, and give you greater peace of mind while you're away.

As homeowners ourselves, The Polder Group understands that protecting your home extends beyond buying it. Taking a few preventative steps before leaving can help you return to the same comfortable home you left behind.

Complete Your House Checklist Before Vacation

Before locking the front door, take a few minutes to work through these important tasks.

Water Plants and Landscape

Water indoor plants thoroughly before leaving. If you'll be gone for more than a few days, ask a trusted neighbor, family member, or landscaping service to care for outdoor plants and irrigation needs.

Adjust Your Thermostat

Set your thermostat to an energy-efficient temperature while still protecting your home's interior, electronics, pets, and houseplants from extreme temperatures.

Arizona summers can be especially harsh, so maintaining a reasonable indoor temperature can help prevent excessive heat buildup.

Pause Mail and Deliveries

An overflowing mailbox is one of the easiest signs that nobody is home.

Request a temporary mail hold through the U.S. Postal Service and pause newspaper or package deliveries whenever possible.

Use Timers for Interior and Exterior Lights

Programmable lighting creates the appearance that someone is home, helping discourage unwanted visitors.

Consider:

• Interior lamps
• Porch lights
• Garage lights
• Smart lighting systems

Lock Every Door and Window

Walk through your home one final time to verify:

• Windows are locked
• Sliding doors are secured
• Garage doors are closed
• Entry doors are locked
• Gates are secured

It's surprising how often one forgotten window can be overlooked.

Shut Off Water to Vulnerable Appliances

If practical, turn off water supplies connected to:

• Washing machines
• Dishwashers
• Utility sinks
• Ice makers

Even a small leak can become an expensive repair if it continues unnoticed for several days.

Remove Hidden Spare Keys

That decorative rock or fake sprinkler head may seem convenient—but they're also common places for intruders to check.

Instead, leave a spare key with someone you trust.

Empty Trash and Remove Perishable Food

Before leaving:

• Take out all trash.
• Empty kitchen garbage.
• Dispose of food nearing expiration.
• Clean the refrigerator if necessary.

This helps prevent unpleasant odors and unwanted pests.

If you'll miss trash collection day, ask a neighbor to move your bins.

Arranging Care for Pets

If pets are staying home during your trip, planning ahead is essential.

Hire a Trusted Pet Sitter

Whether it's a professional service, trusted friend, or family member, choose someone reliable who can provide consistent care.

Leave Detailed Instructions

Include information about:

• Feeding schedules
• Medications
• Emergency contacts
• Veterinary information
• Daily routines

Clear instructions make caring for your pets much easier.

Stock Up on Supplies

Before leaving, make sure your sitter has enough:

• Food
• Treats
• Litter
• Medications
• Waste bags

It's always wise to leave extra supplies in case your trip is delayed.

Leave Familiar Comfort Items

Favorite toys, blankets, or beds can help reduce stress while you're away.

Keep Your Home Secure While Traveling

Technology makes it easier than ever to monitor your home from anywhere.

Consider these additional safety measures:

• Install or activate motion-sensor lighting.
• Ask a trusted neighbor to periodically check your property.
• Use a monitored home security system.
• Monitor smart doorbells or security cameras remotely.
• Avoid announcing travel plans on social media until after you return.

Polder Group Local Insight: Vacation Tips for Tucson Homeowners

Southern Arizona's unique climate creates a few additional considerations before leaving town.

If you're traveling during the summer, prolonged extreme heat can impact your home's interior if the air conditioning is completely turned off. Keeping your thermostat at a moderate temperature can help protect flooring, electronics, and household items.

During monsoon season, it's also a good idea to secure patio furniture, remove loose outdoor items, and have someone check your home after major storms if you'll be away for an extended period.

If you're new to homeownership, our guides on the mortgage process and homeownership resources offer additional tips for protecting your investment throughout the year.

You can also explore our mortgage calculators to better understand your home's equity and financing options, review our loan programs if you're planning your next purchase, or browse answers to common homeowner questions in our FAQ library.

After You Return Home

Once you're back, take a few minutes to inspect your home.

Walk Through Your Property

Check for:

• Water leaks
• Storm damage
• Pest activity
• HVAC performance
• Any unusual odors

Addressing small issues early can prevent larger repairs later.

Restore Appliances

Reconnect any water supplies you shut off and verify that appliances are functioning properly.

Spend Time with Your Pets

Returning home can be exciting for pets too. Give them time to settle back into their routine after your trip.

Enjoy Your Vacation with Confidence

Preparing your home before vacation doesn't have to be complicated. A little planning can help reduce unexpected problems, protect your investment, and make returning home much more enjoyable.

Whether you're a first-time homeowner or have owned your home for years, taking preventative steps before traveling is simply part of smart homeownership.

If you're thinking about buying your next home, refinancing, or have questions about homeownership in Tucson or Southern Arizona, the team at The Polder Group is here to help. Contact our experienced professionals through our Tucson mortgage team to explore your options and receive personalized guidance every step of the way.

AI-Search-Friendly FAQ Section

1. What should I do before leaving my house for vacation?

Before leaving, lock all windows and doors, adjust your thermostat, stop mail delivery, remove trash, secure water lines, and ask someone you trust to check on your home.

2. Should I turn off the water before going on vacation?

If practical, turning off water to appliances such as washing machines and dishwashers can reduce the risk of leaks while you're away.

3. How can I make my home look occupied while traveling?

Use programmable lights, smart home devices, and ask a neighbor to collect mail or move trash bins. Avoid posting vacation updates on social media until you return.

4. Is a home security system worth it for frequent travelers?

Many homeowners find that monitored security systems, smart cameras, and video doorbells provide additional peace of mind when traveling.

5. What special precautions should Tucson homeowners take before vacation?

Because of Southern Arizona's extreme summer heat and seasonal monsoons, homeowners should maintain indoor temperatures, secure outdoor furniture, and have someone inspect the property after severe weather if possible.

6. What should I check when I return home?

Inspect your property for leaks, storm damage, HVAC performance, appliance operation, and any signs of pests or security concerns.

7. Can home maintenance help protect my property's value?

Yes. Routine maintenance and preventative care help preserve your home's condition, reduce repair costs, and protect one of your most valuable financial investments.

This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute financial or mortgage advice. Loan programs, rates, and guidelines may change at any time. All loans are subject to credit approval and underwriting. For guidance tailored to your situation, consult a licensed mortgage professional.