Free 'Going North' Departure Checklist
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I created this checklist after inspecting homes where small oversights turned into big problems. The items that surprise most homeowners are the ones marked Pro tip
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1. Quick prep before you lock up
Remove all trash and perishables (including fridge door shelves).
Clean sink drains; run water + disposal, then rinse.
Set the thermostat to a safe 'away' setting (often 78–80°F, depending on your home and humidity needs).
Close blinds/curtains to reduce heat and UV (leave some light if you prefer).
Unplug non-essential electronics (coffee maker, toaster, small appliances).
Secure valuables and important documents.
2. Water and plumbing (top risk category)
Shut off main water (if appropriate for your home) OR shut off at key fixtures.
If you shut off water: turn off water heater (electric/gas) per manufacturer guidance.
Turn off/disable icemaker and shut off the supply line to the fridge. Pro tip
Flush toilets and run faucets briefly before leaving (and confirm no leaks).
Cover toilets with plastic wrap to prevent evaporation and pests.
Check under sinks for moisture and remove items stored on cabinet floors.
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3. AC and humidity control
Replace/clean AC filter.
Confirm the condensate drain line is clear.
If you have a dehumidifier: empty it, confirm drain hose works, test auto shutoff.
Make sure return vents aren't blocked.
Note your normal temperature/humidity readings so changes are obvious.
4. Electrical and power
Turn off non-essential breakers if you have a plan (label what stays on: AC, fridge if used, security system, pumps as needed).
Check GFCI outlets (kitchen, baths, garage, exterior).
Test smoke alarms / CO alarms (if applicable).
Make sure your surge protectors are in place (especially for TV/internet equipment).
5. Doors, windows, and security
Lock all doors and windows.
Check sliding door locks and dowels/charley bars.
Secure garage door; unplug opener if desired and safe.
Test security system; update contact list.
Test exterior motion lights (replace bulbs if needed).
Move spare keys to a known secure location (or assign to your home watch provider).
6. Storm readiness (Florida-specific)
Know where your shutters/panels and hardware are stored and accessible.
Consider installing a whole-home surge protector, a single device that protects all appliances and electronics from lightning-related power surges. Ask your electrician about options. Pro tip
Photograph shutters/panels stored location (helps if someone else deploys them).
Bring in/secure all outdoor furniture, umbrellas, planters, and loose decor — anything that could become a projectile in high winds.
Trim back vegetation touching the house (if time).
Check gutters/downspouts for debris.
Confirm generator plan (if you have one). Pro tip
Best practice: Empty the fuel completely, run the generator dry before storing.
If keeping fuel in it: Add fuel stabilizer, run engine briefly to circulate it through the system.
Consult your generator owner's manual for model-specific storage instructions.
7. Refrigerator and appliances
Option A: Turn fridge off (clean, dry, prop doors open). Pro tip
Option B: Keep fridge on (remove perishables, set to safe temp, confirm icemaker OFF). Pro tip
Run dishwasher empty once; leave door cracked.
Clean washer gasket and leave washer door cracked.
Clean dryer lint trap and vent area.
Realizing there's a lot to monitor? That's exactly why homeowners hire a home watch company.
Request a Home Watch Consultation →8. Pests and critters
Seal obvious entry points (garage side door gaps, torn screens).
Close/cover sink drains if recommended. Pro tip
Set pest service schedule (if used) and confirm access.
Remove standing water sources around the home.
9. Pool, irrigation, and exterior systems (if applicable)
Confirm pool service schedule and gate access.
Verify pool pump timer settings.
Check the irrigation timer (seasonal schedule, rain sensor).
Walk perimeter: look for loose fence panels, leaning gates, roofline concerns.
10. Mail, deliveries, and vehicles
Pause/forward mail. USPS holds mail for up to 30 days. If you're gone longer, set up mail forwarding instead OR arrange a trusted local contact for pickup. Pro tip
Pause newspaper/subscriptions.
Update delivery instructions (Amazon/UPS/FedEx) to avoid porch piles.
Move vehicles to garage or arrange start schedule if needed.
Remove garage door remotes from vehicles if leaving outside. Pro tip
11. Inside final walk-through
Check all sinks, toilets, tubs for slow drips.
Check ceilings for stains.
Confirm windows closed and locked (especially bathrooms).
Confirm interior doors to utility rooms closed.
Take 'baseline' photos (thermostat, water shutoff position, under sinks, electrical panel). Pro tip
12. Now what?
I've walked into homes where a $12 fix became a $12,000 problem. Nobody knew because nobody looked. That's the only reason this checklist exists. And it's the only reason I started this business.
You handled your part. Let me handle mine.
Disclaimer: This checklist is provided by Service First Home Watch as general guidance only. Home systems and manufacturer recommendations vary. Always follow manufacturer instructions and consult licensed professionals as needed.
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