Best trick I learned in 14 years in the insurance industry is to have a battery backup for your sump pump. That way, if you lose power, the pump can still run. And get the sump pump failure/sewer backup coverage.
I’d say consider getting a smart lock if you’re in a house… that way there is no need to worry about spare keys or tracking who entered or left. It’s super handy for urgent travel plans… or if you need someone to check on the house quickly. Also, we started doing this: share a close friend’s or family member’s number with your neighbors in case you’re not reachable… really makes life so much easier.
Trusted Housesitters.
I have a house in the Midwest and a small condo in SW Florida. I spend about 5 months in each and travel the other 2 months. This is what I have done for the past 8 years.
First, the internet. You know how sometimes you need to unplug it to reset it? Well, there is a product that will reset the internet if it senses it’s no longer working. It’s about $50 on Amazon.
Second, I have a smart thermostat that I use to keep track of my heating and cooling plant. I also have moisture sensors to make sure if my sump pumps quit working, I’ll know before real damage is done. I also have a half dozen $20 cameras looking at my doors and house interior.
Third, I shut off the water to the house if I leave for even one night. It takes less than 60 seconds to turn it off. For longer absences, I turn off the water heater. No sense in heating water I’m not home to use.
Fourth, I stop my mail or have it forwarded, depending on the length of time I’ll be gone. Pro tip: the 30-day rule can be extended by your postal worker since they are the ones who hold it. I’m on good terms with my postwoman and she will hold my mail for 60 days if I ask.
Finally, I have smart locks on my house so I can let in a service person, neighbor or friend to check in on a problem. I’ve had to call a buddy on 2 occasions to check on something. I’ve planned ahead and left a 12-pack of his favorite beer in the refrigerator as thanks for doing me a favor.
I have a 30-year-old son who loves to stay over and take care of our house and 3 cats. We have faster wifi and more streaming services.