13 Essential Things Every Homeowner Should Check Before Going on Holiday

A holiday should be a chance to relax—not worry about what’s happening back home. Yet every year, homeowners return to unexpected problems ranging from burst pipes and security issues to spoiled food and overflowing post.

The good news is that most of these problems can be avoided with a little preparation before you leave.

Whether you’re heading away for a long weekend or a two-week summer break, this simple checklist will help keep your home safe, secure and ready to welcome you back.

Here are 13 essential things every homeowner should check before going on holiday.

1. Lock Every Window and Door

It sounds obvious, but it’s worth double-checking every door and window before you leave.

Don’t forget:

• Upstairs windows
• Garage doors
• Conservatories
• Side gates
• Patio doors

Even a small window left unlocked can become an easy entry point.

2. Set Lights on Timers

A completely dark house every evening can make it obvious that nobody is home.

Use timer switches or smart lighting to turn lamps on and off at different times.

This creates the impression that someone is still in the property.

3. Turn Off the Water Supply

A leaking pipe can cause thousands of pounds’ worth of damage if it goes unnoticed for days.

If your home will be empty for an extended period, consider turning off the main water supply.

It’s one of the simplest ways to reduce the risk of flooding.

4. Adjust Your Heating

Even during warmer months, it’s worth checking your heating settings.

In winter, avoid switching the heating off completely. Instead, leave it on a frost-protection setting to help prevent frozen pipes.

5. Empty the Fridge and Kitchen Bins

Perishable food and rubbish can create unpleasant smells while you’re away.

Before leaving:

• Empty kitchen bins.
• Throw away expired food.
• Wipe down kitchen surfaces.
• Check nothing has been left in the sink.

You’ll appreciate it when you return.

6. Pause Deliveries

A pile of parcels or newspapers outside your front door is an obvious sign that nobody is home.

Arrange to:

• Pause newspaper deliveries.
• Redirect parcels.
• Ask a trusted neighbour to collect post.

7. Ask a Trusted Neighbour to Keep an Eye on Things

A friendly neighbour can be one of the best forms of home security.

Ask them to:

• Move your bins if needed.
• Collect post.
• Park on your driveway occasionally (if appropriate).
• Contact you if they notice anything unusual.

A lived-in appearance can deter opportunistic burglars.

8. Unplug Unnecessary Appliances

Many appliances continue using electricity even when switched off.

Before leaving, unplug items such as:

• TVs
• Coffee machines
• Toasters
• Game consoles
• Chargers

Leave essential appliances, such as your fridge or freezer, connected if they’re still in use.

9. Check Your Home Security

Test your:

• Burglar alarm
• Smart cameras
• Video doorbell
• Outdoor lighting
• Door locks

Replace batteries if necessary and make sure everything is working correctly before you leave.

10. Secure Your Garden

Don’t forget the outside of your property.

Store away:

• Garden tools
• Ladders
• Barbecues
• Outdoor furniture cushions
• Bikes

These items can attract thieves or be damaged by bad weather.

11. Avoid Posting Your Holiday on Social Media

Sharing holiday photos while you’re away might seem harmless, but publicly announcing that your home is empty isn’t always a good idea.

If possible, wait until you return before posting your holiday highlights.

12. Check Your Home Insurance

Before travelling, take a few minutes to review your home insurance policy.

Some insurers have conditions if your property is left unoccupied for a certain number of consecutive days.

Understanding your policy before you leave can help avoid unexpected issues if you ever need to make a claim.

13. Take One Last Walk Around Your Home

Before locking the front door, walk through every room.

Check that you’ve:

• Switched off unnecessary lights.
• Closed windows.
• Turned off taps.
• Removed valuables from view.
• Locked every external door.

This final five-minute check can give you complete peace of mind.

Don’t Forget Your Garden

If you’re away during the summer, your garden may need some attention too.

Before you leave:

• Mow the lawn.
• Water plants thoroughly.
• Ask someone to water pots and hanging baskets if you’re away for more than a week.
• Secure loose garden furniture in case of strong winds.

A tidy garden also helps make your home look occupied.

Final Thoughts – 13 Essential Things Every Homeowner Should Check Before Going on Holiday

A little preparation before you head off can save you a great deal of stress while you’re away.

By following these simple checks, you’ll reduce the risk of break-ins, water damage, electrical problems and other common issues, allowing you to enjoy your holiday knowing your home is well protected.

After all, the only thing you should be worrying about on holiday is whether to order dessert—not whether you remembered to lock the back door.

Redrose Tip

Create a printed holiday checklist and keep it in a kitchen drawer. Before every trip, simply work your way through it. It only takes a few minutes and helps ensure nothing important is forgotten, no matter how excited you are to get away.

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13 Essential Things Every Homeowner Should Check Before Going on Holiday