A seasonal homeowner checklist for Martin County homes before you leave.
This checklist is designed for Martin County homeowners who leave their property unattended for travel, seasonal residence, or extended absence. It helps organize the details a Home Watch provider should understand before scheduled visits begin.
What homeowners should think through
Access and contact information
Confirm gate codes, alarm instructions, emergency contacts, preferred communication method, vendor contacts, and any community access requirements. A Home Watch visit is more useful when access details are clear before the first scheduled check.
Interior preparation
Review HVAC settings, water shutoff preferences, refrigerator status, visible leak concerns, breaker panel access, and any rooms or areas that should receive special attention during the visual check.
Exterior preparation
Consider irrigation timing, exterior furniture, packages, mail, landscaping access, visible storm exposure, and any exterior areas where water or pest concerns have occurred before.
Documentation expectations
Decide what type of visit summary you want to receive, whether photos should be included, and how quickly you expect to be notified if something appears abnormal.
Preparation checklist
- Primary homeowner contact
- Secondary emergency contact
- Alarm and access instructions
- Water shutoff preference
- HVAC setting preference
- Vendor contact list
- Community or gate access notes
- Preferred visit summary delivery method
Common questions
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Should I leave a key or use a lockbox? | That depends on the homeowner’s preference and the property setup. The important point is that access should be agreed upon in writing before service begins. |
| Does the checklist replace a service agreement? | No. The checklist helps organize information, but the written service agreement should define the actual service relationship, boundaries, frequency, and expectations. |
| Why does documentation matter? | Documentation gives the homeowner a record of what was observed during the visit and helps reduce confusion if a concern needs follow up. |
