Planning a getaway? Whether it’s a weekend at the cabin or a two-week escape, it’s important to protect your home while you’re gone. Water leaks and fire hazards can quickly turn your relaxing vacation into a stressful return home. That’s why Haven Builders, your trusted Minnesota restoration experts, created this easy vacation checklist to help prevent water and fire damage while you’re away.

Water Damage Prevention Tips

Water damage is one of the most common (and costly) issues homeowners face when they’re not home. Here’s how to minimize the risk:

✅ Shut Off the Main Water Valve

Before you leave, turn off your home’s main water supply. This simple step can prevent major flooding if a pipe bursts or an appliance leaks while you’re gone.

✅ Drain Pipes

If you’re heading out of town in winter, prevent pipes from freezing or bursting by opening the faucets after shitting off the main water supply. This will drain the pipes of any remaining water that could cause damage.

✅ Inspect for Drips and Leaks

Check under sinks, around toilets, and behind appliances for any signs of slow leaks. Even a tiny drip can become a big problem in your absence.

✅ Clear Gutters and Downspouts

Make sure gutters are free of debris and properly draining away from your home. Summer storms in Minnesota can lead to water pooling near your foundation if gutters are clogged.

✅ Inspect Your Sump Pump

Ensure your sump pump is plugged in and working before you go, and make sure the discharge hose is connected properly.. Consider installing a backup battery in case your home loses power during a storm.  

✅ Turn Off or Unplug Appliances

Dishwashers, washing machines, and refrigerators with water lines can be potential culprits. Unplug or turn off water to these appliances before leaving.

✅ Set Your Water Heater to Vacation Mode

If your water heater does not have a vacation mode, lower the temperature to save energy and reduce the risk of leaks.

Fire Damage Prevention Tips

Fire damage is devastating, and in many cases, avoidable. Before heading out, take these steps to reduce fire risk:

✅ Extinguish Open Flames

This may seem like a no-brainer, but make sure to extinguish candles, incense, wax melts, or any other open flame before you leave. You may not realize another member of your household was using one of these items before departure.

✅ Turn off Gas Appliances

If possible, shut off gas-powered appliances like stoves or dryers to prevent gas leaks.

✅ Unplug Unnecessary Electronics

Appliances and electronics left plugged in can be fire hazards due to power surges or faulty wiring. Unplug coffee makers, toasters, and anything not in use.

✅ Avoid Overloading Circuits

For anything left plugged in, inspect cords to make sure they’re not frayed, and check outlets to make sure they’re not overloaded. This includes outdoor outlets and holiday decorations.

✅ Test Smoke Detectors and Replace Batteries

Make sure all smoke alarms are working properly. This is your home’s first line of defense if something goes wrong while you’re away. Even if you’re not there, your neighbors may be able to hear the alarms and call for help. Or better yet, install smart smoke detectors to send you an alert so you can contact the fire department. 

✅ Set Timers on Lights

Not only does this help deter break-ins, but it also ensures lights don’t run continuously and overheat.

✅ Clean the Dryer Lint Trap and Vent

If you’re doing laundry before your trip, make sure the dryer lint trap and vent are clean. Lint buildup is a leading cause of home fires.

✅ Secure Outdoor Areas

Remove flammable items like dry leaves, firewood, or propane tanks from near your home to reduce external fire risks.

Bonus Tips: 

✅ Have a Trusted Neighbor Check in

Ask a friend or neighbor to check in on your home, especially after a storm. A quick walk-through can catch potential issues before they become disasters. Ask them to check your basement for any water leaks and to make sure your sump pump is still working properly.  

✅ Install Smart Devices

Consider installing cameras, smart smoke detectors, or water leak sensors or a security system with these features to alert you remotely to any problems as they arise. You’ll be able to contact someone, such as a neighbor, plumber, or the fire department, to come deal with these issues before they do further damage.

✅ Pause Deliveries

Deter vandals or burglars by pausing mail, newspaper, or package delivery to avoid signaling an empty home. 

✅ Notify Your Insurance

Check to see if your home insurance policy has specific requirements for vacant homes. If yours does, be sure to notify them of your absence to ensure your coverage will apply in case of a disaster. Take photos or videos of your home’s condition before leaving to simplify insurance claims if damage occurs.

Haven Builders Is Here to Help

We sincerely hope you return to a home that’s just as you left it. But if you come home to unexpected damage, Haven Builders is ready to help. Our experienced restoration team specializes in:

• Water damage cleanup and drying
• Fire and smoke restoration
• Structural repairs
• Storm damage restoration
• Insurance coordination

Whether it’s a minor leak or major fire damage, we’re here to restore your peace of mind – and your home.

Peace of Mind Starts with Prevention

Taking just a few simple precautions can go a long way in protecting your home while you’re enjoying time away. For immediate help with fire or water damage, contact Haven Builders today.

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Did you know that Haven Builders does more than just fire and water restoration? Haven Builders is also your go to for:

• Bathroom Remodels
• Kitchen Remodels
• Design Inspiration
• Basements
• Additions
• Commercial Restoration
• Commercial Design & Build