Don't let your dream vacation become a nightmare back home

For this week's blog post, I'm borrowing from my husband's company Vetcor of Central Texas, with summer safety tips to prep your home for summer travel.  If you or someone you know comes home to a disaster, give them a call!

Protecting Against Roof Damage, Water Leaks, Flooding, Fire, and Mold

As the summer season approaches, many of us are excitedly making travel plans to enjoy a well-deserved vacation. However, before you embark on your adventures, it’s crucial to ensure that your home is adequately prepared to withstand potential risks. By taking a few proactive measures, you can protect your property from roof damage, water leaks, flooding, fire hazards, and mold.

Sadly, we at VetCor have responded to many of these in the past, where clients returned from their dream vacation to find a nightmare at home from a toilet that was running and flooded the entire house, or an electrical short that resulted in a whole house fire.

In this blog post, we’ll discuss practical tips to secure your home and provide peace of mind during your summer travels.

Roof Damage Prevention

1. Inspect and Clean Your Gutters: Clear out any debris to prevent water buildup that can lead to roof damage and leaks.
   
   2. Trim Overhanging Branches: Prune trees near your house to prevent falling branches during storms, reducing the risk of roof damage.
   
   3. Check for Loose or Damaged Shingles: Replace any missing or damaged shingles to maintain the integrity of your roof.

Water Leak Avoidance

1. Inspect Plumbing Fixtures: Check for any leaks in faucets, toilets, and pipes. Repair or replace faulty parts to prevent water damage.
   
   2. Shut Off Main Water Supply: Consider shutting off the main water valve or installing an automatic shut-off valve to prevent major leaks in your absence.
   
   3. Install Water Leak Detectors: Utilize smart devices that detect leaks and send alerts to your phone, allowing for prompt action if a water leak occurs.

Flood Prevention

In Texas, not many of us have basements where oftentimes flooding occurs, but with our lakes and hills in Central Texas, we do have a lot of split-level homes and houses on the side of a hill.  The same precautions apply.
1. Clear Lower Levels and Drains: Remove any clutter or belongings from your basement or lower-level floor and ensure that drains are clear to prevent flooding.

2. Install a Sump Pump: Consider installing a sump pump to automatically remove excess water during heavy rains or flooding.

3. Elevate Valuables: If your area is prone to flooding, raise valuable items, such as electronics or sentimental possessions, off the ground to minimize potential damage.

Fire Safety Measures

1. Test Smoke Detectors: Ensure that all smoke detectors are functioning correctly and replace batteries if needed.
   
   2. Unplug Appliances: Minimize the risk of electrical fires by unplugging non-essential appliances before leaving.
   
   3. Inform Neighbors or Security Service: Notify a trusted neighbor or your home security service about your absence, providing contact information in case of emergencies.

Mold Prevention

1. Control Humidity Levels: Set your thermostat to maintain a consistent temperature and humidity level to discourage mold growth.
   
   2. Inspect for Water Leaks: Look for signs of water damage, such as discolored walls or musty odors, and repair any leaks promptly to prevent mold.
   
   3. Increase Air Circulation: Leave interior doors open and consider using fans or dehumidifiers to improve airflow and discourage mold growth.

By implementing these precautionary measures, you can safeguard your home from potential risks while enjoying your summer travels. Preventing roof damage, water leaks, flooding, fire hazards, and mold growth will help ensure that you return to a safe and secure home. Take the necessary steps to protect your property, and you’ll have the peace of mind to make the most of your vacation.