What to Do Before Leaving Your House Vacant – The Essential Boca Raton Homeowner Checklist

Whether you’re a snowbird heading north, taking an extended vacation, or leaving your Boca Raton home unoccupied for business or family reasons, preparing your home before you leave is one of the most important things you can do to protect your property.

Florida’s humidity, storms, and fast-moving mold issues make vacant homes especially vulnerable. At Home Watch Boca Raton, we’ve seen how quickly a small issue can escalate when no one is there to notice. A leaking valve, a clogged AC line, a power outage, or a storm-damaged window can turn into thousands of dollars in damage.

This guide outlines the most important steps you should take before leaving your house vacant, along with why hiring a professional home-watch service is the smartest way to protect your investment.

Inspect Plumbing, Fixtures & Shut Off What You Can

Water is the #1 source of damage in vacant Florida homes.

✔ Before you leave:

• Shut off the main water supply (if possible)

• Turn off individual valves for sinks, toilets, and the washer

• Inspect under sinks for leaks

• Check water heaters and valves

• Ensure no taps are dripping

• Empty and clean refrigerator ice makers

  
  

A slow drip in Florida humidity can turn into mold within days.

---

Set Your AC Correctly — This Is Crucial in Boca Raton

Your AC prevents mold, humidity damage, and moisture buildup.

✔ Recommended settings:

• Temperature: 74–78°F

• Humidity control: ON (if available)

• Fan: AUTO, not ON

• Smart thermostat: Recommended for remote monitoring

  
  

Avoid turning off the AC entirely or leaving it on fan mode, as this is a common mistake made by homeowners when their property is vacant.

---

Secure Your Windows, Doors & Entry Points

Before leaving:

• Lock all windows

• Check sliders and tracks

• Close curtains or blinds

• Inspect seals for gaps

• Ensure hurricane shutters are operable if needed

  
  

A simple unlocked window can invite trouble.

---

Prepare for Florida Weather — Even If You’re Leaving Off-Season

Storms can happen at any time.

✔ Do this before leaving:

• Bring outdoor furniture inside

• Secure patio items

• Trim branches away from the home

• Make sure gutters and drains are clear

• Photograph exterior condition for insurance

---

Empty, Clean & Prepare Your Kitchen

Before leaving your home vacant:

• Remove all food from the fridge

• Take out trash

• Clean sink disposals

• Wipe counters

• Seal dry foods or remove them entirely

  
  

This prevents pests, odors, and mold.

---

Prevent Mold by Controlling Moisture Sources

Florida’s #1 enemy in vacant homes is mold.

Take these precautions:

• Leave interior doors open for airflow

• Keep bathroom doors cracked

• Clean shower drains

• Use DampRid or desiccants in key areas

• Make sure the AC drain line is clear

---

Unplug Appliances & Electronics

Reduce fire risk and electrical surges:

• Unplug TVs, computers, printers, and lamps

• Turn off breakers for nonessential areas

• Keep necessary circuits for AC and security

---

Arrange Regular Home Watch Visits (Highly Recommended)

This is the most important step.

A vacant home should never be left unmonitored — especially in Boca Raton.

A professional Home Watch service checks:

• AC humidity levels

• Storm or rain impact

• Plumbing, leaks, and moisture

• Mold prevention

• Pool condition

• Water intrusion

• Electrical issues

• Security problems

• Vendor activity

• Mail, packages, and deliveries

  
  

Home Watch Boca Raton provides detailed reports, photos, and proactive care—giving homeowners peace of mind while away.

---

Why Home Watch Boca Raton Is Essential Before You Leave

Most homeowners assume they only need to shut the door and go — but Boca Raton’s climate can turn a minor issue into a disaster fast.

We offer:

• Weekly or biweekly inspections

• Detailed condition reports with photos

• Vendor coordination and supervision

• Emergency response

• Storm preparation & post-storm checks

• Full concierge-level property management

• And so much more, as each home is unique, just like its owner.

  
  

Leaving your home vacant without oversight is a risk—one that’s completely avoidable.

---

Conclusion: Ensure Your Home's Security Steps on What to Do Before Leaving Your House Vacant

Whether you’re gone for two weeks or six months, taking the right steps before leaving your home vacant protects your property, your finances, and your peace of mind. For full-service, reliable home protection while you’re away:

Experience true peace of mind with Home Watch Boca Raton. Book your appointment today and enjoy concierge-level service while you’re away — from protecting your property to preparing your home for your arrival with a fully stocked refrigerator and more.

Reserve Your Appointment