Leaving home for vacation checklist

Arrange care and access0/7

• Arrange suitable care for pets and leave their usual supplies and instructions
• Ask someone to water plants if they will need attention
• Agree who can check the property if a problem arises
• Share a contact number and your return date privately with that person
• Arrange spare-key access securely with someone you trust
• Explain any locks, alarms or household controls they need to use
• Check any insurer or building requirements that apply while the home is empty

Sort food and waste0/6

• Plan meals to use up food that will spoil while you are away
• Give away or freeze suitable food you will not use in time
• Empty household rubbish and food-waste bins
• Wash dishes and remove food scraps from the sink
• Run or empty the dishwasher before leaving
• Leave the fridge and freezer operating unless you have emptied and prepared them for switching off

Handle routine tasks0/5

• Pause deliveries or arrange for someone to collect them
• Make a plan for post and parcels
• Finish laundry that would otherwise remain wet in a machine
• Check that important bills or regular payments are covered while you are away
• Leave a simple note with agreed instructions for anyone looking after the home

Check appliances and systems0/7

• Switch off cooking appliances and check that they are cool
• Unplug nonessential appliances that can safely be disconnected
• Keep power to anything that must stay running, such as alarms and the fridge
• Set heating or cooling appropriately for the property, weather and occupants remaining
• Check taps and visible plumbing for drips or leaks
• Check that smoke alarms are working
• Check timers or other security arrangements you normally use

Final walk-through0/8

• Close and secure accessible windows and external doors
• Check balcony, garage and garden access where applicable
• Bring in outdoor items that could blow away or obstruct access
• Check that no pets are accidentally shut in an unattended room
• Put keys, travel documents and essential bags where you can take them with you
• Set the alarm if you have one
• Lock the final door and check it is secure
• Confirm that the person checking the home has the agreed access details