Do a quick leak check

Walk through your kitchen, bathrooms, basement, and utility areas and look for:

• Drips under sinks
• Damp or darkened spots around the water heater
• Moisture near washing machine hookups
• Stains near windows or exterior doors

Consider turning off the water supply (when it makes sense)

Not everyone turns off their main water line before vacation, and it’s not always necessary. But in some situations, it can significantly reduce risk.

Turn off the water supply if any of these apply:

• You’ll be gone for an extended period (5+ days)
• No one will be checking the property
• It’s winter or freezing temperatures are expected
• You live in an older home with aging plumbing

Keep indoor temperatures safe

Even if you want to save on energy costs, avoid turning the heat too low.

Maintain 55–60°F throughout the home to prevent frozen pipes, especially in:

• Basements
• Crawl spaces
• Additions
• Over-garage bathrooms
• Utility rooms

A few degrees can make all the difference during a cold snap.

Insulate and protect vulnerable pipes

If you’ll be traveling during winter, consider insulating:

• Basement pipes
• Pipes in exterior walls
• Garage plumbing
• Outdoor spigots (use covers or shutoff valves)

Frozen pipes are one of the most common sources of water damage while owners are away.

Clean gutters and ensure water drains away from the home

If heavy rain or melting snow hits while you’re gone, you want water flowing away, not pooling around your foundation.

Make sure:

• Gutters are cleared
• Downspouts extend away from your home
• Storm drains are open and not blocked

Unplug water-using appliances

To reduce both electrical and plumbing risks and prevent unexpected cycles or slow leaks from turning into major damage.

Unplug:

• Washing machine
• Dishwasher
• Water dispensers
• Whole-house humidifiers
• Ice makers

Secure windows, doors, and vents

Double-check that all windows and exterior doors are sealed tightly. Wind-driven rain or freezing air entering the home can cause moisture issues or pipe failures.

Have someone check in while you’re away

Even a quick walkthrough every few days can make a huge difference. Ask a:

• Neighbor
• Friend
• Property manager

Have them confirm:

• The heat is running
• No leaks or puddles have formed
• No circuit breakers have tripped
• Sump pump area is dry

Early detection can save thousands.

Prepare for the forecast while you’re gone

Before leaving, take a quick look at weather predictions:

• Cold front coming? Open cabinet doors under sinks so warm air can circulate.
• Heavy rain expected? Double-check gutters and drains.
• Wind or ice forecast? Ensure basement windows and bulkheads are sealed.

Before you go, take a few extra minutes

A short walkthrough now is far easier (and far cheaper) than dealing with water damage when you get back. These simple steps help protect your home or commercial property from leaks, frozen pipes, and unexpected water issues while you’re away.

If you return home and suspect water damage, even if it’s small, the H2O Damage team is available 24/7 to help assess, mitigate, and restore your property.