The Best Way to Prepare Your Home Before Leaving for the Summer

A Homeowner’s Checklist for Peace of Mind While You’re Away

Leaving your home for the summer—whether for travel or seasonal relocation—requires more than locking the door and setting the alarm.

1. Secure the Interior Systems

Start with the systems that can cause the most damage if something goes wrong:

✔ Plumbing

• Turn off the main water supply

• Drain pipes if leaving for extended periods

• Check for leaks under sinks and behind appliances

• Set water heater to vacation mode

✔ Electrical

• Unplug non-essential appliances

• Use timers for select lights to create occupancy

• Check breakers and ensure no overloaded circuits

✔ HVAC

• Set thermostat appropriately (typically 78–85°F in summer)

• Replace air filters

• Ensure vents are clear

2. Prevent Heat & Environmental Damage

In areas like the Coachella Valley, extreme heat isn’t just uncomfortable—it’s destructive, especially to our homes.

✔ Windows & Sun Exposure

• Close blinds or install sunshades

• Consider UV window film for prolonged absences

✔ Refrigeration

• Dispose of perishable food

• Empty and clean refrigerator if fully shutting down

✔ Moisture Control

• Check for any areas prone to humidity or condensation

• Use moisture absorbers if needed

3. Protect Against Pests & Intrusion

Years of experience, this one usually goes unnoticed. And when you come home, you are welcomed to some unwanted visitors.... An empty home becomes an easy target—both for pests and people.

✔ Exterior

• Trim landscaping away from the house

• Remove any standing water

• Secure all entry points (doors, windows, garage, etc,.)

• Spray around the house to prevent critters from trying to escape from the heat

✔ Interior

• Take out all trash

• Store food in sealed containers

• Consider preventative pest treatment

• Spray around the inside of the home as well to really seal those critters out

4. Manage Deliveries & Utilities

Unmanaged mail and services signal that a home is vacant.

✔ Mail & Packages

• Place a hold with USPS or forward mail (30 day max- plan accordingly)

• Pause subscriptions and deliveries

✔ Utilities

• Confirm what stays on vs. off

• Notify utility companies if needed

5. Prepare the Exterior

First impressions matter—even when you're gone.

✔ Landscaping

• Arrange ongoing maintenance (gardener, pool service)

• Clear debris and secure all outdoor furniture

✔ Security

• Test alarm systems and cameras

• Replace batteries where needed

6. Create a Home Oversight Plan

This is where most homeowners fall short.

Even with preparation, issues can still happen—a leak, a power outage, a random summer storm, or a service provider needing access.

A home should not sit completely unattended for months.

✔ Arrange Regular Check-Ins

• Walkthroughs of the property

• Running water and flushing systems

• Checking for leaks, damage, or irregularities

✔ Be Available for Vendors

• Coordinate repairs or maintenance if needed

• Allow trusted access when you're unavailable

How Your Everyday PA Supports You

Preparing your home is one step.
Maintaining it while you're away is what protects your investment.

Your Everyday PA provides:

• Pre-departure home preparation
  We walk through your home with you (or on your behalf) to ensure everything is properly set.

• Routine property check-ins
  Consistent, detailed walkthroughs to catch issues early—before they become expensive problems.

• Vendor coordination
  From gardeners to repair professionals, we handle communication, scheduling, and oversight.

• Delivery & service management
  No packages sitting outside. No missed appointments.

• Peace of mind
  You’re not wondering what’s happening at your home—we’re already on it.

• Prepare for your return

  We'll have your home ready to go when you come back, including but not limited to: food shopping, ensuring your home is clean, picking up mail/packages from USPS, picking up anything else you may need so coming home is seamless, eliminating stress and aiding with relaxing when you come home.

Leaving your home for the summer should feel like freedom—not a lingering concern in the back of your mind.

Preparation creates stability.
Oversight creates protection.

If your home will be sitting empty this season, having someone you trust to manage the details makes all the difference.

Ready to Leave Without the Stress?

If you're preparing to leave for the summer and want your home properly managed while you're away:

Click here to apply for Home Care Services with Your Everyday PA or contact us: 760.773.8646 to schedule a free walk-through.

We’ll make sure everything is handled—before you leave and while you’re gone.