Tips

Seasonal homeowners in Florida often need to take special care of their properties, particularly during the off-season.

Here are some essential home maintenance tips for seasonal homeowners in Florida:

Use a Home Watch Service: Consider hiring a professional home watch service to regularly inspect and maintain your property while you’re away. They can check for any issues and address them promptly.

Hurricane Preparedness: Florida is susceptible to hurricanes. Ensure your property is prepared by installing hurricane shutters or impact-resistant windows. Have a hurricane emergency kit on hand and secure outdoor items.

AC Maintenance: In Florida’s hot climate, air conditioning is crucial. Schedule regular maintenance for your HVAC system to ensure it’s in good working order when you return.

Plumbing Checks: Prevent water damage by turning off the water supply to your property when you’re away for an extended period. Also, consider insulating pipes to prevent freezing during occasional cold snaps.

Lawn and Landscape Maintenance: Arrange for lawn care and landscaping services to keep your property looking well-maintained. This includes mowing the lawn, trimming bushes, and removing any dead vegetation.

Pest Control: Florida is known for its pests. Implement pest control measures to prevent infestations. Consider regular pest inspections and treatments.

Security Systems: Ensure your security systems, such as alarms and surveillance cameras, are operational. Notify your security company of your absence and provide emergency contact information.

Regular Cleaning: Schedule periodic cleaning of your property to prevent dust, mold, and mildew buildup. Pay special attention to areas that may be prone to humidity-related issues.

Pool Maintenance: If you have a pool, maintain it regularly, including checking the water chemistry, cleaning the pool, and servicing the equipment.

Storm Drains and Gutters: Clear storm drains and gutters to prevent water from pooling during heavy rains, which can cause flooding and damage.

Appliance Maintenance: Unplug non-essential appliances to save energy and prevent potential electrical issues. Ensure that your refrigerator and freezer are cleaned and emptied before leaving.

Mail and Packages: Arrange for mail forwarding or have a trusted neighbor collect your mail to prevent it from piling up and signaling your absence.

Insurance Review: Review your homeowner’s insurance policy to ensure it’s up-to-date and provides adequate coverage, especially for hurricane-related damage.

Emergency Contacts: Provide a list of emergency contacts, including local maintenance professionals and your home watch service, to a trusted friend or neighbor who can assist in case of an emergency.

Regular Inspections: When you return to your seasonal home, conduct a thorough inspection to identify any issues that may have arisen during your absence. Address them promptly to prevent further damage.

Remember that prevention and proactive maintenance are key to keeping your Florida seasonal home in good condition. Having a reliable home watch service can significantly ease the burden of maintaining your property while you’re away.