Preparing Your Rental Home for Holiday Travel

The holiday season is a time of joy and celebration. Whether you’re visiting family or exploring a new destination, it’s crucial to ensure your rental home is secure before you leave. Taking proactive steps can help you avoid damages, unexpected bills, and even theft. Proper preparation not only protects your space but also gives you peace of mind, allowing you to enjoy your holiday to the fullest.

Secure Your Home Before You Leave

One of the first steps to take before heading out is ensuring your home is protected from intruders. Security should be a top priority, so double-check all your locks. Inspect doors and windows thoroughly, paying attention to commonly overlooked areas like patio doors, basement windows, and other points of entry. If your rental home has a deadbolt or chain lock, be sure to utilize it. This small detail is easy to forget when you’re busy preparing for your trip.

If your rental home has a security system, set it to “away” mode. This setting often enables additional monitoring features, such as motion detection or alerts for unusual activity. Before you leave, ensure the system is fully functional. Additionally, notify your property manager of your travel plans to see if they offer extra services while you’re away.

Using timers for lights is another great way to give the appearance of someone being home, even if the property is empty. This small investment can deter potential intruders. Also, take care to put valuable items out of sight. Jewelry, electronics, and important documents should be stored securely and away from windows to avoid drawing attention.

Protect Your Home from Potential Damage

In addition to safeguarding your home against theft, you should also address potential maintenance or utility issues that may arise during your absence. A few simple precautions can prevent costly damage and ensure your home stays in good condition while you’re away.

Set your thermostat to a safe temperature. In colder climates like Idaho, frozen pipes can cause significant water damage, so it’s recommended to set your thermostat to at least 55°F. Don’t set your temperature too high, as you may experience mold growth.

Winterizing outdoor plumbing is another important step. If your rental includes outdoor faucets, ensure they’re turned off and drained to prevent freezing. Disconnect any hoses and cover the spigot for added protection.

Take the time to unplug unused electronics, such as TVs, gaming consoles, and kitchen appliances. Doing so will reduce energy consumption and minimize fire risks while you’re out of town.

Communicate With Your Property Manager

Communication with your property manager is key when planning an extended absence. Property managers can be a valuable resource, offering peace of mind that your home is safe and sound. Share your travel schedule with them and provide the exact dates you’ll be away.

Consider arranging additional services if your property manager offers them. For example, they may be able to handle snow removal, pick up your mail, or check on the property periodically. These tasks deter potential intruders and ensure your home maintains a well-kept appearance.

Before leaving, confirm your insurance coverage. Familiarize yourself with your policy to understand what’s included and avoid any unpleasant surprises if something does go wrong. If your coverage seems insufficient, now is the time to consider expanding it. While additional coverage may not take effect immediately, it can significantly reduce your stress on future trips.

Plan for a Warm Welcome Back

Returning home after a trip should be a pleasant experience, not a stressful one. A little preparation before you leave can ensure a smooth and enjoyable return.

Start by taking out the trash and emptying all bins to prevent unpleasant odors or pests from invading your space. Then, clean your home thoroughly. Wash dishes, wipe down surfaces, and vacuum floors. When you return to a fresh, inviting home, you’ll understand that the effort was worth it.

To make your return even more comfortable, stock up on non-perishable food items before leaving. Having canned goods, pasta, or snacks on hand can be a lifesaver after a long journey. Additionally, make sure you have clean linens ready to use. Crawling into a freshly made bed after traveling can make all the difference in your mood and cure some of your post-vacation blues.

Rental Homes in Idaho

Preparing your rental home for a trip away is a simple yet effective way to secure your property and gain peace of mind. By taking the necessary precautions and maintaining open communication with your property manager, you can focus on enjoying your holiday without worry.

If you’re searching for a rental home that suits your lifestyle, Rooftop Real Estate Management offers a variety of properties designed for comfort and convenience. From homes in peaceful neighborhoods to those closer to bustling city centers, our rentals cater to a range of needs and preferences.

Our team is dedicated to providing high-quality living spaces and excellent customer service. Whether you’re a seasoned tenant or new to renting, we’re here to make your experience seamless. Explore our available rentals on our website, or contact us today to learn more about how we can help you find your ideal home.