Home Watch Shutdown Checklist

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Patio Lockdown (if client opted in): Move cushions, umbrellas, and lightweight patio furniture into the garage for monsoon season. If the client did not opt in, take a photo documenting any items left out and include in the report.

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Trash Bins: Pull in the trash and recycling bins from the curb if the final pickup has already occurred. Ensure they are completely empty to prevent maggots/smells in the garage.

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Visual Perimeter Check: Do a quick scan of the roofline, block walls, and stucco to establish your baseline condition before the summer storms hit.

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Mail Status Verification: Confirm the client has set up USPS mail forwarding or an extended hold (standard holds expire after 30 days). Accumulated mail is the #1 signal to burglars that a home is vacant.

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Irrigation System Documentation: Verify the irrigation timer is set and running correctly. Document the current schedule.

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Thermostat Protocol: Set the AC to exactly 85°F on “Cool” and “Auto” fan.

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Water Heater: Switch the water heater to “Vacation Mode.” If it’s electric and doesn’t have a vacation mode, flip the breaker off.

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UV Protection: Close every blind, shutter, and drape in the house. Ensure they are tilted slightly up (directing light toward the ceiling) to prevent UV rays from bleaching the floors and furniture.

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Electronics Check: Verify the client has unplugged accessible electronics. Assist with any remaining accessible outlets as agreed with the client.

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Ceiling Fans: Set ceiling fans to low speed to circulate conditioned air and reduce AC workload.

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Smoke & CO Detector Check: Test all smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Replace any low batteries from the client’s supply.

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Vent the Cabinets: Open all under-sink cabinet doors in the kitchen, bathrooms, and laundry room to allow AC circulation and prevent trapped heat from expanding pressurized cleaning chemicals.

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Ice Maker: Turn the ice maker arm to the “OFF” position. Dump existing ice into the sink and wipe the ice bin completely dry.

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Fridge Verification: Double-check that all perishables are gone, especially in the bottom crisper drawers.

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Garbage Disposal: Run the disposal with water for 15–20 seconds to clear any remaining debris before shutdown.

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Dishwasher: Crack the dishwasher door open to prevent mold.

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Washing Machine: Turn off the local hot/cold water valves behind the washing machine. Prop the door open.

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Water Softener: Put the water softener into bypass mode or regeneration hold. Activate vacation mode if available.

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Reverse Osmosis System (if applicable): Turn off the feed valve to prevent pressure buildup. Check for leaks around the storage tank and filters.

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The 5-Gallon Buckets: Fill the client-provided 5-gallon buckets with water. Place one in the center of every major room and bedroom.

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The 1-Gallon Buckets: Fill the 1-gallon buckets. Place one near the cracked dishwasher and one near the washing machine to keep rubber seals hydrated.

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The Final Flush: Flush every toilet. Run water in every sink and shower for 30 seconds to ensure the P-traps are completely full.

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THE WATER MAIN: Go to the exterior house loop or street meter and shut off the main water valve.

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Garage Door Disconnect: Unplug the garage door opener to prevent scanner hacking. Pull the emergency release cord so the door is physically locked down.

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