Summer Travel Checklist for Your Villages Home
Before you head north for the summer, take time to prepare your Villages home properly. We'll walk you through essential steps to keep your property safe and protected.
Getting Your Villages Home Ready for Summer Travel
As a seasonal homeowner in The Villages, you know the routine well. When summer arrives and temperatures climb, it's time to close up your Florida home and head to cooler climates. But before you load the car and hit the road, taking a few hours to properly prepare your home can save you from costly problems down the road.
Essential Pre-Travel Tasks
Secure Your Doors and Windows
Start with the basics. Walk through your home and ensure all doors and windows are locked. Check sliding glass doors, garage doors, and any exterior entry points. Don't forget about lanai doors—a common oversight for seasonal residents.
Adjust Your Thermostat
Set your air conditioning to a higher temperature (around 78-80°F) rather than turning it off completely. This helps prevent moisture buildup and mold growth in the Florida humidity. If your AC fails during your absence, you'll still have some protection for your belongings.
Handle Your Plumbing
Turn off the main water supply to prevent leaks while you're away. Drain your water heater if you'll be gone for several months. Open cabinet doors under sinks to allow air circulation and help prevent mold. It's also wise to have someone check your home periodically during extended absences.
Take Care of Your Outdoor Space
Trim back tree branches away from your roof and gutters. Clear any debris from gutters and downspouts to ensure proper water drainage during summer storms. If you have a pool or spa, maintain proper chemical levels or have a professional handle maintenance while you're away.
Protect Your Belongings
Close all interior blinds and curtains to protect furniture and flooring from sun damage. Store valuables in a safe or safety deposit box. Consider leaving some interior lights on timers to deter unwanted visitors and make your home appear occupied.
Utilities and Services
- Stop newspaper and mail delivery, or have someone collect them regularly
- Notify your utility companies of your absence
- Set up automatic payments for essential services
- Leave contact information with a trusted neighbor
- Consider a home watch service for periodic inspections
Document Your Home
Before you leave, take photos and videos of your home's interior and exterior condition. This documentation is invaluable if you ever need to file an insurance claim. Store these files securely on the cloud.
Peace of Mind During Summer Months
Many Villages residents have found that having a trusted home watch service monitor their property provides real peace of mind during extended absences. A professional can perform periodic inspections, check for water leaks, monitor temperature and humidity levels, and respond quickly to any issues that arise.
Taking these steps before you leave for the summer ensures your Villages home will be waiting for you in excellent condition when you return in the fall. Safe travels!
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