Colorado Homeowners’ Essential Vacation Checklist

Heading off for a much-needed vacation from your Colorado home? While you’re busy packing your bags and making travel arrangements, don’t forget about the safety and security of your property. Whether you’re hitting the slopes or exploring scenic landscapes, it’s crucial to prep your home to deter burglars and prevent potential hazards. Use this Colorado homeowners’ essential vacation checklist!

This checklist will help keep your Colorado home safe and secure while you’re away. From creating a sense of occupancy to leveraging smart home technology, we’ve got you covered!

Make It Seem Like You’re Still Home

Nobody wants their home to appear vacant and inviting to intruders. To create the illusion of occupancy:

• Utilize timers and motion sensors for indoor lamps to give the impression that someone is home. Opt for “smart home” devices for remote control flexibility.
• Program a timer to switch on lights (and even your TV!) each evening for several hours. Modern “smart home” gadgets can also offer this remote functionality.
• Install motion-sensitive lights in the front and back yards to deter potential prowlers. Before leaving, ensure all bulbs are in working condition.

Don’t Forget Trash Day

Avoid drawing attention to your absence by arranging for a trustworthy neighbor to take out and return your garbage and recycling bins on trash day. Keeping up with this routine makes your home blend in with the neighborhood.

Outdoor Maintenance

Make arrangements for lawn mowing and watering to ensure your property looks well-kept and lived-in. Additionally, clear storm drains to prevent water damage from Colorado’s unpredictable weather.

Create a Sense of Activity

Keep your driveway from looking deserted by parking your car there or requesting a neighbor to do so if they have an extra vehicle.

Seek Help from Neighbors or Friends

Inform your nearby neighbors about your vacation plans and provide them with your contact information. Enlist their assistance with the following:

• Checking for delivered packages and stopping regular mail and newspaper delivery.
• Conduct periodic walk-throughs of your home to water plants and ensure everything is in order.

Prep Your Home

Before leaving, take preventive measures to protect your home from potential hazards:

• Shut off the main water valve to prevent water damage from burst pipes. Additionally, turn off water valves to the washing machine, dishwasher, and sinks.
• Unplug small appliances and electronic devices to reduce the risk of electrical incidents.
• Set the thermostat to an appropriate temperature for the season (around 60-65 degrees in winter and 10 degrees lower than outside temperatures in summer).
• Secure all windows and doors, removing any hidden outside keys.

Keep An Eye Out with Security Cameras

Invest in quality security cameras, such as Ring or NestCams, to monitor your property remotely. Take advantage of any available camera reimbursement programs in Colorado.

Embrace Smart Home Technology

Explore high-tech solutions that connect to your smartphone and keep you updated while you’re away:

• Consider a smart lock to remotely control your door’s access.
• Opt for indoor cameras that detect motion or front door cameras for added security.

By following our Colorado Homeowners’ Essential Vacation Checklist, Colorado homeowners can relax and enjoy their time away, knowing their property is well-protected from emergencies. From creating the illusion of occupancy to embracing smart home technology, safeguarding your home during your vacation is easier than ever. Have a fantastic trip and peace of mind knowing your Colorado abode is in good hands!