Prepare Your Virginia Home Before Going on Summer Vacation!

Vacations are supposed to be relaxing and worry-free. That's why it's important to secure your house so you don't have to worry about broken water connections, power surges and burglars.

Whether you're going out of town for two days or a few weeks, there are things you can do to prepare your home for your absence and for your smooth return.

Make your house look lived-in.

An empty house is a welcome invitation to burglars. To avoid the house looking empty:

•       Stop the newspaper and mail (or ask a neighbor to pick them up).
•        Park your car inside the garage.
•       Ask a neighbor to park in your driveway.
•       Put at least one light on a timer.
•       Install a motion-activated sensor on an outdoor floodlight.
•       Make sure your lawn stays trimmed.

Take the necessary plumbing and electric precautions.

Not only is running appliances an unnecessary utility expense, it also could lead to costly problems. To avoid the expense and headache of something going wrong with an appliance while you're away:

•        Unplug small appliances and electronic devices.
•        Put the water heater in vacation mode.
•        Turn off water valves to the dishwasher, washing machine and all sinks.
•        Set the thermostat to a temperature that is less comfortable, but still protects your plants, pets and furniture.

Ready your pets.

•       Give the pet sitter or boarding facility detailed care instructions.
•       Make sure you have plenty of your pet's favorite foods, treats, toys, medicines and other supplies on hand.

Tidy the house.

•       Sweep or vacuum floors.
•        Do the dishes.
•        Wipe down counters in the bathroom and kitchen.
•        Put clean sheets on the beds.
•        Give toilets a quick clean.

General home preparation tips before you go on vacation:

•        Notify your credit card company that you are going out of town.
•        Notify your security company that you are going out of town.
•        Make sure your smoke detectors are working properly.
•        Leave your emergency contact information with a neighbor.
•        Toss out any food that will go bad before you return from vacation.
•        Take out the kitchen trash, or any other trash that could get smelly.

Virginia Homes has been building new homes in Central Ohio for 60 years.  Visit www.Virginia-Homes.com for more information or call (614) 764-1953.