Although Santa Cruz is a beautiful part of California with stunning beaches and a breathtaking atmosphere, a well-planned vacation can be exciting and irresistible for anyone. But before you get too excited and pack your bags, it's essential to ensure your home is secure and well-maintained before you leave for your relaxation retreat. Here is a checklist to help you prepare your Santa Cruz home before leaving for vacation:

Security First:

• Lock up: Secure all doors and windows, including those on the ground floor and in less-used areas. Consider installing a security system or using smart home devices for added protection.
• Hide valuables: Don't leave precious or valuable items out in the open. Store jewelry, cash, and other valuables in a safe or secure location away from prying eyes or windows.
• Inform neighbors: Let your neighbors know you'll be away and ask them to keep an eye on your property while you're gone. Consider having them collect mail and newspapers to avoid accumulating evidence of an unoccupied home if you will be gone for a long time.
• Law Enforcement: If you will be gone for a long while, you can contact your local law enforcement to inquire about drive-bys. This adds an extra layer of security by having an officer on duty periodically drive by your home to ensure nothing is out of the ordinary.

Utilities and Maintenance:

• Adjust thermostat: Set your thermostat to a lower temperature to conserve energy while you're away. However, avoid setting it too low to prevent pipes from freezing if you are going to be gone during the colder months.
• Electronics: Unplug any electronics and appliances to reduce the risk of electrical fires and save energy. If your home has solar panels, be sure to inspect them for any obvious damage and clean them so they can continue to function properly while you are away.
• Irrigation: If you have a lawn that requires regular watering throughout the warmer seasons, make sure someone can care for your lawn. You should also make arrangements for someone to water any plants that don't use self-watering pots.
• Check for leaks: Inspect your home for any signs of water leaks, especially around faucets, pipes, and appliances. If you are expecting a lot of rain during your time away, you will also want to ensure your foundation is free of leaks and that your sump pump is fully functional in case of a flood.

Additional Tips:

• Suspend deliveries: Temporarily pause deliveries from online retailers or subscription services to avoid packages piling up or sitting outside your door.
• Light timers: Use light timers to simulate your presence and deter potential intruders. Solar lights can also be a great cost-effective solution.
• Consider a house sitter: If you have pets or require more extensive care, hiring a house sitter might be a good option as well.

By following these steps, you can enjoy your vacation with peace of mind, knowing that your home is safe and secure.

For more information, please visit our website and download our eBook; ‘A Guide To Hiring A Remodeler.’ Our eBook Guide provides additional resources and includes helpful Worksheets that will make the process of Picking the Right Remodeling Expert For the Job stress-free. To get your own project started, get in touch with us, or give us a call at (831) 566-9499.