A long weekend, a few days visiting family or a short holiday: before leaving, most of our attention naturally goes to packing, the journey and remembering what we need to take with us.
Taking a few minutes to look around the house can nevertheless prevent some unpleasant surprises when you return. There is no need for a complicated inspection. The idea is simply to check the few things that will continue to operate — or change — while you are away.
Do Not Unplug Everything Automatically
Unplugging appliances that will not be used while you are away can be worthwhile, particularly chargers, small kitchen appliances and devices left unnecessarily on standby.
However, switching off all the electricity is not always a good idea. The refrigerator, freezer, alarm system, some connected devices or an automatic watering system may need to remain powered.
The simplest approach is to look at each appliance and decide which ones genuinely need to keep running.
If a refrigerator is being emptied and switched off for a longer absence, leaving the door slightly open after cleaning helps prevent unpleasant smells.
Think About Water, Especially Small Leaks
A minor leak that would quickly be noticed while someone is at home can cause much more damage if nobody sees it for several days.
Before leaving, a quick look under sinks, around toilets and near appliances connected to the water supply can reveal dampness or a hose that is beginning to deteriorate.
Depending on the installation and how long you will be away, turning off the main water supply can also be a simple precaution, provided you know exactly what this affects in your home.
Close Up the House Without Necessarily Sealing It Completely
Windows, doors and secondary entrances are naturally worth checking before you leave. Shutters and blinds require a little more thought depending on the house and the season.
Keeping everything completely closed for several days can make some rooms extremely hot in summer. On the other hand, leaving the house visibly open all the time may not be desirable either.
Adjusting shutters according to sun exposure, arranging secure ventilation or having someone occasionally air the house can be more appropriate than applying the same rule everywhere.
Prepare the Things That Will Keep Living While You Are Away
Potted plants, the garden and outdoor equipment do not stop simply because the house is empty.
Before leaving, check the weather forecast and adjust watering to the actual length of your absence rather than soaking everything heavily “just in case”.
It is also a good time to put away anything that might not cope well with a sudden spell of wind: parasols, lightweight objects, tools or unstable outdoor furniture.
A few minutes of preparation can prevent you from returning to overturned pots or damaged equipment.
Avoid Making Your Absence Too Obvious
An overflowing letterbox, parcels left outside for several days or shutters that never move can make it fairly obvious that nobody is home.
For a longer absence, asking someone you trust to collect the post and take a quick look at the house is often simpler than trying to create the illusion that somebody is permanently there.
It is also sensible not to publish the exact dates of your absence publicly on social media. Holiday photos can always be shared after you return.
Plan for What Happens if Something Goes Wrong
A neighbour or relative may be available if something happens, but they still need to be able to act.
For an absence of several days, it can be useful for someone you trust to know how to reach you, have a spare key if you are comfortable with that, and know the few important details about the house.
There is no need to leave a complete instruction manual. Knowing where the main water shut-off is or how to contact you quickly may already be enough if an unexpected problem occurs.
Take One Last Look Before Closing the Door
Just before leaving, one final walk through the house lets you calmly check:
- windows and entrances;
- appliances that need to remain plugged in and those that can be unplugged;
- taps and water points;
- the refrigerator and perishable food;
- bins;
- plants and outdoor areas;
- keys and contact details left with anyone who may be checking the property.
Once that is done, there is no need to mentally repeat the whole list during the first fifty kilometres of the journey.