Snowbird Home Prep Checklist

Your Florida home, ready before you head north. Print this page or save it as a PDF and check items off as you go.

💧 Water & Plumbing

Decide with your plumber whether to shut off the main water supply (irrigation and some fire systems need it on)
Turn off or turn down the water heater per the manufacturer's guidance
Run every faucet and toilet once and check under sinks for drips
Shut off the ice maker and empty the bin
Check washing machine hoses for bulges or cracks

❄️ AC & Humidity

Keep the AC running — many pros suggest about 78–80°F while you are away to control humidity
Replace the air filter right before you leave
Set the thermostat fan to Auto, not On
Ask your AC tech about flushing the condensate drain line
Open interior doors so air can circulate
Consider a dehumidifier in closed-up rooms

⚡ Electrical & Kitchen

Unplug small appliances and electronics, or use surge protectors
Leave breakers for the AC and refrigerator on
Test smoke and CO detectors and replace weak batteries
Clear out perishables and take out all trash
Store dry goods in sealed containers to discourage pests

⛈️ Hurricane Preparation

Know your shutter plan and who will put them up if a storm threatens
Store or secure patio furniture, grills, potted plants and décor
Trim trees and remove dead limbs well before June
Photograph or video every room and your valuables for insurance records
Keep a copy of your insurance policy and agent contact where you can reach it
Know your evacuation zone

🔒 Security & Access

Lock all windows and sliding doors
Put lights on timers or smart plugs
Decide how a trusted person will get in (lockbox, smart-lock code, exterior-only)
Tell your HOA and a nearby neighbor who may be visiting the home
Leave an emergency contact list with your home watcher

📬 Mail, Bills & Insurance

Hold or forward your mail, and pause package deliveries
Put recurring bills on autopay
Ask your insurer about vacancy or unoccupied-home clauses — many policies require regular inspections
Confirm your wind and flood coverage is active

🗝️ Want us to do the opening and closing?

Our seasonal open-up and close-up visits handle the hands-on tasks before you arrive and after you leave, $199 each or $349 for both (Martin County, FL).

Want someone to check all of this while you're away?

Photo report after every visit. Plans from $89/month, cancel or pause any time.

See Plans & Pricing

General guidance only — every home is different. Check with your insurer and licensed contractors about your specific property. © While You're Away Co. · Stuart, FL · AC drain line overflow alarm kit · Open-Up & Close-Up · Shipping & Returns Privacy