How to Protect Your Home from Water Damage While on Vacation: 11 Tips

Vacation should be a time for relaxation, not for worrying about what might be happening at home. Unfortunately, water damage can strike at any time, and if you’re not around to handle it, the results can be disastrous. Whether it’s a burst pipe, a leaking roof, or a faulty appliance, water damage can cause serious harm to your property. The good news is that there are preventive steps you can take to protect your home while you’re away.

In this blog post, we’ll guide you through essential tips on how to safeguard your home from water damage while on vacation, ensuring that you return to a peaceful and well-maintained property.

1. Turn Off the Water Supply

One of the most effective ways to prevent water damage while you’re away is to turn off the main water supply to your home. This step will help prevent any plumbing issues from escalating. If a pipe bursts, you’ll reduce the amount of water that can flood your home, minimizing potential damage. Here’s how you can do it:

• Locate your main water shut-off valve. This is typically found in basements, garages, or crawl spaces.
• Turn the valve clockwise to shut off the water supply. If you’re unsure, consult your home’s plumbing manual or call a plumber before you leave.

This simple action can save you a lot of headaches and potentially thousands of dollars in repairs.

2. Check and Maintain Appliances

Before you head out on your trip, make sure all appliances that use water are in good working condition. Faulty appliances, such as dishwashers, washing machines, and refrigerators with ice makers, are common culprits for water damage. Here’s what you can do:

• Inspect hoses for signs of wear or cracks and replace them if necessary.
• Ensure that your washing machine’s water supply valves are turned off.
• Check the dishwasher for any leaks and clean the filter to prevent clogs.

By addressing these appliances before your trip, you’ll reduce the likelihood of them malfunctioning while you’re away.

3. Clean Your Gutters

Clogged gutters can lead to water backing up and overflowing, which can cause water damage to your roof, siding, and even your basement. Cleaning your gutters before vacation ensures that water can flow freely and away from your home. Here’s how:

• Remove leaves, sticks, and other debris from the gutters.
• Ensure that downspouts are clear and direct water away from the foundation.

This preventative measure will help avoid water buildup, which could cause leaks and expensive repairs.

4. Inspect the Roof for Leaks

A leaking roof can cause significant damage, especially during a rainstorm. Before you leave, inspect your roof for signs of wear and tear, such as:

• Missing or damaged shingles
• Cracks or gaps around flashing
• Moss or algae growth

If you notice any issues, it’s wise to have them repaired before you leave to prevent water from infiltrating your home while you’re away.

5. Ensure Proper Drainage Around Your Foundation

Make sure that the area around your home’s foundation is properly graded to direct water away from your house. Water pooling near the foundation can lead to basement flooding, structural damage, and mold growth. Here’s how to maintain proper drainage:

• Check for any low spots in your yard that could collect water.
• Ensure that your lawn slopes away from the foundation.
• If necessary, add or adjust soil to improve the slope.

Proper drainage will prevent water from accumulating near your home, safeguarding your foundation and preventing long-term water damage.

6. Install a Smart Water Leak Detector

Technology can be your best friend when it comes to preventing water damage. Smart water leak detectors are designed to alert you to leaks in real-time, even while you’re on vacation. These devices can be placed in areas where water damage is most likely, such as under sinks, near washing machines, or around your water heater. If a leak occurs, you’ll receive an immediate alert on your smartphone, allowing you to take action before the problem worsens.

Many water leak detectors also include automatic shut-off features, which can stop the flow of water if a leak is detected, further reducing the risk of damage.

7. Consider a Professional Plumbing Inspection

If you’re planning an extended vacation, consider scheduling a professional plumbing inspection before you leave. A licensed plumber can check for any potential issues, such as:

• Corroded or aging pipes that could be prone to leaks
• Signs of mold or mildew buildup that indicate water damage
• Blockages or faulty drainage systems

A professional inspection will give you peace of mind knowing that any potential problems have been addressed before you leave.

8. Make Sure Your Sump Pump is Working

If your home has a basement, a sump pump is essential for preventing flooding. Test the pump before you leave to ensure that it’s in good working condition. Make sure the pump is clear of debris, and check the discharge line to ensure it’s directing water away from the foundation. If your sump pump is old or malfunctioning, consider replacing it or installing a battery backup to keep it running in case of power outages.

9. Set Your Thermostat Correctly

Extreme temperatures can lead to frozen pipes, which may burst and cause extensive water damage. Make sure your thermostat is set to a temperature above freezing, even when you’re away. A setting between 55°F (13°C) and 60°F (15°C) is ideal for preventing pipes from freezing in the winter.

10. Inform a Trusted Neighbor or Friend

If you have a trusted neighbor or friend who lives nearby, ask them to keep an eye on your home while you’re on vacation. In addition to checking for obvious signs of water damage, they can look out for other issues, such as flooding in your yard, leaks around windows, or storm damage. Having someone nearby can provide an extra layer of protection, especially in case of an emergency.

11. Check for Vulnerable Areas in the Basement or Crawlspace

If you have a basement or crawlspace, these areas are particularly vulnerable to water damage, especially during heavy rains or storms. Before leaving, inspect these areas for signs of leaks, water stains, or moisture buildup. Consider sealing cracks in the foundation or installing a vapor barrier to prevent water from seeping in.

Conclusion

Protecting your home from water damage while you’re on vacation requires some preparation, but the effort is well worth it. By taking a few proactive steps—such as turning off the water supply, maintaining your appliances, cleaning gutters, and ensuring proper drainage—you can minimize the risk of water damage while you’re away. With these preventive measures in place, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that your home is safe, and you can fully enjoy your vacation without any worries.