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Check homeowners’ insurance policy to see if there is a vacancy clause
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If leaving a car at the home, disconnect the battery or install a trickle charger
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Cover furniture with sheets
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Unplug appliances; unplug garage door opener
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Empty all trash inside and outside
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Clean sticky spills and crumbs and throw out perishable foods
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Set lamps on timers
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Close window coverings; put covers on window wells
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Check that all windows and doors and are locked; lock garage doors
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If you must leave a key at the property, make sure it is in a locked box
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If leaving heat on, set thermostat to a temperature that is no lower than the manufacturer recommends and have the furnace cleaned. (If leaving heat off, make sure a plumber drains the water lines)
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Turn water off at the source
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Cover commodes with plastic
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Winterize your irrigation system
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Clean away any yard, gutter, and roof debris
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Store patio furniture, grills, etc. indoors
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Have a professional pull docks and lifts out of the water (if necessary)
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Winterize boats and other recreational vehicles and place in storage
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Close damper and make sure chimney is capped
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Arrange for snow removal service to allow for emergency access
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Mark septic tank cover, septic line, and well with flags or posts (so they can be found under any snowfall)
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Forward mail
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Cancel newspaper subscriptions/deliveries
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Arrange for pest control service
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Arrange for professional key holder service or employ a private caretaker
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Notify local police that you will be gone and give them emergency contact information
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Close swimming pool
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Close hot tub
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Drain water from outside hoses and store in garage
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Trim any tree limbs that are hanging over your house or utility lines
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