Before You Pack: Home Inspection Tips to Prep Your Property for Vacation

Jun 6

2 min read

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Don’t let your summer getaway turn into a homecoming nightmare.

Summer vacation season is here, and after planning your destination, booking your stay, and packing your bags—you’re almost ready to go. But is your home ready for you to be gone?

An empty house is vulnerable to issues that might go unnoticed for days or even weeks. A minor plumbing leak, a failing HVAC unit, or even just forgotten appliances can lead to major headaches. Before you leave town, take time to prep your home with this simple checklist.

1. Give Your HVAC System a Quick Check

Your air conditioner doesn’t get a break just because you’re out of town. Before you leave:

Replace the air filter
Set the thermostat to a higher—but still safe—temperature (around 78–80°F)
Make sure the unit is draining properly and no signs of freezing or leaks are present

A quick tune-up now can prevent a sweaty mess when you return—or worse, mold buildup from an AC failure.

2. Be Smart About Your Plumbing

Water damage is one of the most expensive (and common) issues for unattended homes. Before leaving:

Turn off the main water supply or at least shut off valves to toilets and sinks
Check for slow leaks under sinks or around water heaters
Run your garbage disposal and dishwasher with a final rinse
If your home is older or you’ve noticed drainage issues, consider scheduling a hydrostatic test or sewer line inspection ahead of time

3. Unplug and Protect Your Electronics

Energy surges or appliance malfunctions don’t take a vacation.

Unplug TVs, computers, and small appliances
Use surge protectors for essential electronics left plugged in
Put interior lights on timers to mimic your usual schedule

This protects your gear and also helps conserve energy while you're away.

4. Prevent Moisture and Mold Buildup

Houston’s summer humidity is no joke. If your home has had moisture issues in the past:

Use a dehumidifier if you’ll be gone more than a few days
Crack interior doors to promote air circulation
Ensure that attic and crawl space vents are unobstructed

If you’ve experienced musty smells or persistent dampness, consider scheduling an air quality assessment before your trip.

5. Lock It Down and Secure It Smartly

Safety doesn’t stop at locking the front door.

Check all window locks and sliding door latches
Make sure exterior lighting works (motion lights are a plus)
If you have security cameras or a smart doorbell, test the system
Don’t post your travel plans on social media until you return

6. Ask a Friend to Check In

Having a trusted neighbor or friend stop by every few days can make all the difference. They can:

Bring in mail or packages
Check for signs of water leaks or HVAC issues
Let you know if anything seems off

Even better—if you have a home monitoring service, make sure your emergency contact list is up to date.

Final Thoughts

Your vacation should be relaxing—not a reason to worry about what might be going wrong back home. A quick walkthrough and a few smart steps now can prevent major problems later.