Advice for "Snowbird" Maine Home Owners

     Furnace failure creates frozen pipes and accompanying water damage.  Broken windows lead to critter chaos and security concerns.  Fallen trees cause property damage.  Storm debris, snow and flooding restrict access to the property.  All of these can happen when you leave your home during the winter months.

   HomeCheckers Midcoast LLC suggests going over a checklist to prepare your home before you leave on business or vacation travel, whether it be for a weekend or a month.  With just a little effort, damage can be avoided in most cases.

   Every property is unique, but there are a few points every homeowner should remember.  A good general inspection can save you a lot of headaches.

   Set your thermostat to no lower than 55 degrees, and keep interior doors open to allow heat circulation. This will maintain your home at an adequate temperature to avoid frozen pipes.  If you do not receive automatic oil or propane delivery, be sure you have your tank filled before leaving.

   Check to see that tree limbs are not within striking distance of the house or power lines, in the event of a storm, and have them trimmed if necessary.

   Instruct your plow driver to avoid piling snow near perimeter drains to prevent flooding. Have someone check on your home in your absence.  That person should be someone you trust to be your contact in the event of an emergency: a friend, family member, neighbor or property management service.  If you choose a local service to watch over your property or check on those items you may have forgotten, you have the benefit of knowing a professional is keeping an eye on your home. Whoever checks on your home, give that person a list of preferred service providers for reference in the event of an emergency and also information on how to reach you if anything unusual happens.

   If you choose to monitor your home yourself, you can purchase a reasonably priced freeze alarm to keep track of the interior temperature and power status in your home by phone. However you will still need to designate a contact person to follow up on any issues that may arise.

   If you have a full security system in place you also need to have someone available to respond to an alarm or emergency situation.

   Remembering to take care of your home before leaving town can prevent trouble from happening in your absence.  By putting safeguards in place you can protect your property from the wrath of winter.

   If you have any home management questions we would be pleased to discuss your particular situation with you and of course you can visit our web site for more details on HomeCheckers Midcoast LLC.  I hope that wherever you are or are going that it is warmer than here!

Ann Poole   Opening the door to your peace of mind

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regarding frozen pipes .. You have make sure that all exposed water lines in your house are properly insulated and maintained before winter comes..

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