Summer Travel Prep: Securing Your Villages Home
Before you head north for the summer, take time to prepare your home properly. We'll walk you through essential steps to protect your investment.
Getting Your Home Ready for Summer Away
As a seasonal homeowner in The Villages, summer travel is part of your lifestyle. Whether you're escaping to cooler climates or visiting family up north, leaving your home unattended for weeks or months requires thoughtful preparation. Taking the right steps now can prevent costly damage and give you peace of mind while you're away.
Securing Your Home's Interior
Climate Control and Utilities
Florida's summer heat and humidity can wreak havoc on an empty home. Set your thermostat to 78-80°F to prevent excess moisture buildup that leads to mold and mildew, while still keeping energy costs reasonable. Don't turn off the AC completely—it's your home's best defense against humidity damage.
Turn off the main water supply to prevent leaks from going unnoticed. If you have a water heater, consider lowering its temperature or switching it to vacation mode.
Interior Protection Checklist
- Close and lock all windows and doors
- Close interior blinds and curtains to block UV rays that fade furniture
- Empty refrigerators and dispose of perishables
- Leave interior lights on timers to deter intruders
- Notify your neighbors you'll be away (community watch is wonderful in The Villages)
- Forward your mail or have someone collect it
Protecting Your Exterior
Landscaping and Outdoor Areas
Before you leave, trim back tree branches near your roof and gutters. Clear debris from gutters so summer storms can drain properly. Have someone water your landscaping periodically—neglected plants attract pests, and dead landscaping signals an empty home to potential intruders.
Garage and Entryways
Close and lock your garage door. Don't leave it partially open, as it advertises an absence. Remove trash cans from curb view after collection day, and consider having your driveway swept occasionally to maintain a lived-in appearance.
Storm Season Preparation
Summer in Florida means thunderstorm season. Unplug electronics and major appliances to protect them from power surges. If you have a pool, balance the chemicals and ensure your pump is on a timer. Don't drain your pool—it can damage the structure during heavy rains.
Professional Home Watch
While these steps are important, nothing replaces regular in-person monitoring. Professional home watch services provide regular interior and exterior inspections, checking for water leaks, pest activity, and weather-related damage. For peace of mind, many Villages homeowners arrange weekly or bi-weekly visits during their summer travels.
Before You Go
Leave emergency contact information and house keys with a trusted friend or family member in The Villages. Document your home's condition with photos for your records. Consider installing a simple security system or video doorbell if you don't have one already.
Proper preparation takes a few hours but protects months of investment. Your summer getaway should be relaxing—knowing your Villages home is secure makes all the difference.
Need a home watch service?
We provide professional property monitoring for homeowners in The Villages area.
Get Your Free Consultation