Home Watch Services
We recommend weekly home visits, with bi-weekly as an acceptable alternative. There are numerous potential issues that can arise in your home while you're away. In our climate, whether it's hot or cold, mold can flourish if conditions permit—beginning to grow in as little as 72 hours!
We tailor our checklists to suit the specific needs of each client's home, but below are the fundamental elements for any visit to your property.
Upon Arrival
- Exterior check of grounds, landscape, pests, lawn and sprinklers
- Remove newspapers, flyers, check mailbox
- Visual check of outdoor light fixtures
- Visual exterior check including roof (from ground), screens, windows, AC units, fence
- Turn water ON – “gingerly”
- Enter home, disarm security system, if appropriate
Interior Check
- Check all windows and doors for damage and ensure they are locked
- Visual check for signs of water damage, mold and mildew
- Cycle the water: brush and flush toilets, run water in sinks (including garbage disposal), tubs and showers
- Short cycle dishwasher and washer
- Check the water heater – it should be turned OFF at circuit breaker, or on Vacation Mode, when water main is OFF. If there is a Circulator Pump, that should be OFF. Procedure varies by type of equipment
- Check for signs of insects, pests and rodents
- Check closets, pantry and storage cabinets
- Verify AC and humidistat settings; adjust as necessary
- Check refrigerator, freezers and wine coolers for proper temp and operation
- Reset clocks after power outage
- Check circuit breaker panels
- Check garage (including trash) and make sure door to garage is locked
Pool Area
- Check water level and condition of water
- Check equipment and pool control panel
- Check skimmers and empty if need be
Departure
- Final departure: “Look. Listen. Lock.”
- Enable security system, lock doors
- Turn OFF water supply
