Essential Steps to Prepare Your Home for Vacancy

Leaving your home vacant for an extended period can be a daunting task. It's not as simple as locking the doors and walking away.

There are numerous factors to consider to ensure your property remains safe, secure, and well-maintained. From securing the property to managing utilities, each step is crucial in preparing your home for vacancy.

This guide aims to provide you with a comprehensive checklist. It covers everything from the basics of securing your home to the more complex aspects of legal and financial considerations.

Whether you're planning a long vacation, relocating for work, or waiting for your property to be sold or rented out, this guide is for you.

By following these essential steps, you can have peace of mind knowing your home is well-prepared for vacancy.

Let’s dive into the process of preparing your house for vacancy and explore the key steps you need to take.

Understanding the Importance of Vacant Property Preparation

Vacant properties can quickly become targets for break-ins and vandalism. Without proper preparation, homes left unattended can develop costly issues like water damage or infestations. Preparing a house for vacancy is essential to prevent these problems.

Moreover, a well-prepared property helps maintain its market value. This makes it more attractive to potential buyers or renters. Additionally, you may face insurance risks if your home is not properly secured. Taking a proactive approach by preparing your home before it becomes vacant is crucial for its safety and value.

For insights into vacant property insurance coverage, explore this guide on vacant home insurance.

Securing Your Home: The First Line of Defense

Securing your home should be your top priority when preparing a house for vacancy. Start by locking all doors and windows. Ensure all entry points are secure and any weak spots are reinforced.

Consider installing a comprehensive security system. Modern systems offer features like motion detectors and real-time alerts. This can deter potential intruders and give you peace of mind while you’re away. Learn more about advanced home security solutions from this security systems review.

Timed lighting systems can make your home appear lived-in. Set these systems to simulate daily routines even when you’re not there. This small step can significantly deter crime by making your home less appealing to burglars.

Maintaining Appearances: Deterring Unwanted Attention

An untidy yard is a clear indicator of vacancy. Regular maintenance is crucial to keep the property neat and appealing. Arrange for someone to mow the lawn and trim shrubs. This will maintain curb appeal and deter any unwanted interest.

Uncollected mail is another vacancy giveaway. It’s vital to manage your mail and deliveries effectively. Consider stopping mail services or arranging for a neighbor to collect your packages. The USPS Hold Mail Service offers a convenient solution for managing deliveries during your absence.

Utilize smart home technology to control lights and surveillance remotely. These systems can enhance security and make the home appear occupied. Being able to monitor your property from afar provides invaluable peace of mind.

Utilities and Appliances: What to Shut Off and What to Keep Running

Before leaving, unplug appliances and electronics to prevent potential hazards and save on energy costs. Standby power can add up, and unplugging is an easy way to cut expenses. Avoid any fire risks by ensuring all devices are unplugged.

Your thermostat settings are crucial for preventing damage due to temperature changes. In colder months, set it to a temperature that prevents pipes from freezing. During summer, keep your home cool enough to avoid heat damage. The Department of Energy’s thermostat guide offers helpful tips for efficient settings.

Water supply and plumbing should be top priorities when preparing for vacancy. Shutting off the main water supply can prevent leaks and water damage. Consider draining pipes and adding antifreeze if leaving during the winter.

Winterization for Vacant Properties

Winterizing Your Vacant Chicago Home: Critical Steps Before Cold Weather

If you're leaving your home vacant during Chicago's winter months, winterization isn't optional—it's essential. Frozen pipes are the #1 cause of catastrophic damage in vacant properties, with average repair costs exceeding $5,000 per incident according to the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety.

Critical winterization tasks for vacant homes:

Protect your plumbing system:

• Shut off the main water supply at the street valve

• Drain all pipes by opening faucets at the highest and lowest points

• Pour RV antifreeze (not automotive antifreeze) into all drains, toilets, and P-traps

• Drain your water heater completely

• Drain or blow out sprinkler systems using compressed air

Set your thermostat correctly:

• Never turn heat off completely in a vacant Chicago home

• Maintain minimum 55°F throughout winter to prevent pipe freezing

• Consider a smart thermostat with remote monitoring and alerts

• Open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air circulation around pipes

Winterize outdoor systems:

• Disconnect and store all garden hoses

• Install foam faucet covers on exterior spigots

• Drain outdoor faucets completely after shutting off interior valves

• Clear gutters and downspouts to prevent ice dam formation

Professional vs. DIY winterization:

While you can handle basic tasks like disconnecting hoses and draining accessible pipes, professional winterization is strongly recommended for vacant properties. Licensed plumbers have specialized equipment to completely drain complex plumbing systems and can identify vulnerable pipes you might miss.

Professional vacant home winterization typically costs $200-$400 but can prevent $5,000-$15,000 in freeze damage. The service includes complete system drain-down, pressure testing, and identification of at-risk areas specific to your home's construction.

Timing matters: Complete all winterization by mid-November in Chicago. Sudden temperature drops can occur without warning, and frozen pipes can burst overnight when temperatures fall below 20°F.

For a complete step-by-step winterization guide including cost breakdowns and DIY vs. professional comparisons, read our detailed article: How Do I Winterize My House? Checklist for Homeowners.

Spring reopening costs: Remember that winterization isn't a one-time expense. Come spring, you'll need to pay $200-$400 to have a plumber reopen your plumbing system, refill pipes, check for any winter damage, and restart your water heater. These recurring seasonal costs add up quickly for properties vacant through multiple winters.

Cleaning and Pest Prevention: Keeping Your Home Spotless and Secure

A clean home is crucial for preventing pests and mold in your absence. Before leaving, conduct a thorough cleaning of every room. Focus on areas where dirt, dust, and grime accumulate, like kitchens and bathrooms.

Perishables and trash are magnets for pests and should be managed properly. Discard all perishables and take out the trash to prevent odors and insects. Check closets and pantry for forgotten food items.

Implement pest deterrent strategies to protect your home further. Seal entry points such as cracks and holes to keep out rodents and insects. Consider using repellents or traps as additional barriers against infestations. The National Pest Management Association provides resources for pest prevention.

Legal and Financial Considerations: Insurance and Notifications

Before leaving, it’s essential to inform your insurance company about your home’s vacancy. This step can ensure adequate coverage and might be a policy requirement. Discuss possible changes or enhancements to your policy to reflect the unoccupied status.

Adjusting insurance policies for a vacant property is often necessary. Some insurers offer specific coverage for vacant homes, addressing unique risks. Explore these options to protect your home against unexpected incidents during the vacancy.

Legal requirements can vary by location, so research what notifications are required when leaving a property vacant. Some areas mandate informing local authorities or utility providers. Adhering to these regulations can prevent fines and other complications. Check the City of Chicago’s website for local vacancy laws.

If you’re planning on leaving your home vacant or selling it, start your preparation today. Use this guide as a roadmap for a stress-free departure or smooth sale. Share this checklist with others who may need guidance, and help them ensure their homes remain safe and sound during the transition.