Snowbird Checklist

In the restoration business, it’s all too often that we see “disasters” that could have been prevented if the homeowners had caught the beginning of the problem or had been home to stop the disaster from happening all together. For many of our clients, “being there” just wasn’t an option because they’re snowbirds! Heading North for your “summer” home is a common occurrence here in Florida. However, that also means leaving your property unattended or not monitored for several months. In an effort to help you prevent a possible disaster,we’ve compiled a checklist to help you prepare your “summer” home when you’re ready to migrate back North.

You can review our snowbird checklist tips below or get the full Snowbird Checklist via FREE download here.

	Arrange for hurricane shutters to be installed when a tropical storm/hurricane watch or warning is in effect. Have shutters removed a few days after the storm/hurricane has departed.
	Make sure all smoke alarms are working and have fresh batteries.
	Place timers on indoor lamps.
	Forward mail.
	Place a temporary stop on newspaper delivery.
	Place phone, cable, internet service, and vehicle on “vacation status.”
	Return library books, rented videos/DVDs.
	Remove all furniture from lanai.
	Wedge dowels in window tracks and sliding doors to prevent burglars from prying them open.
	Open all interior doors, including closet doors, to promote airflow.
	Set air conditioners/thermostats at 80º to prevent mold growth and humidistat should be at 40% – 52% relative humidity.
	Discard all perishable items.
	Fill jugs with tap water and place in refrigerator. A full refrigerator/freezer will use less energy than an empty one.
	Pack all prescription drugs including “refrigerated drugs.”
	Run hot water through your garbage disposal. Let it dry out. Pour 1 teaspoon vegetable oil into disposal. Do not run any water, but turn disposal on for a few seconds (to prevent impellers from getting stuck).
	Unplug electrical appliances and computers (except refrigerators) susceptible to lightning and power outages.
	Unplug or turn off circuit breaker to hot water heater to conserve energy.
	Disconnect electric garage door opener to prevent burglars from entering.
	Add 1 cup of bleach to toilet bowls to keep it clean.
	Turn off main water valve, unless you have an automatic fire-sprinkler system. In that case, turn off the water valves to your washing machine, dishwasher, and toilets. Bleed excess water out of lines.
	Ask a friend, neighbor, or homewatch company to check on your property every week while you are away. (Request that they remove their shoes while inspecting carpeted areas; if the carpets are wet, it will be easily detected.)
	Activate home security system.