Should I turn off my water when leaving for vacation?

Yes—turning off the main water supply is the most effective way to prevent leaks while you're away, especially if you're leaving for more than a few days.

How do I test my sump pump before a trip?

Pour water into the sump pit or use the test button on your pump to ensure it activates and drains water properly.

What temperature should I set my thermostat to for a summer vacation?

Set it to 78–82°F (26–28°C) to balance energy savings with preventing mold growth from humidity.

What happens if my sump pump fails while I'm on vacation?

If your sump pump fails during heavy rain, water can flood your basement, leading to costly structural damage, mold, and damaged belongings.

Can I leave my dishwasher running while on vacation?

No—running appliances while away increases fire and flood risk; empty and clean them before you leave.

How long can a home be left unattended safely?

Most homes can be left unattended for 1–2 weeks if you've completed pre-trip inspections, but longer trips require additional precautions like smart home monitoring.

What should I do if I discover water damage after returning from vacation?

Contact a water damage restoration company immediately to prevent mold growth; delays can increase damage and repair costs by thousands of dollars.

How to Prepare Your Home Before Leaving for a Summer Trip [Key Steps + Tips]

Published on: May 1, 2026

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Planning a summer getaway is exciting but leaving your home unattended exposes it to potential risks like water damage, fire hazards, and costly repairs. The most effective way to protect your home while traveling is to inspect water sources, test critical systems like your sump pump, and shut off utilities before you leave. Homeowners who skip these steps often come home to water damage, mold growth, or electrical fires that could have been prevented with 30 minutes of prep work. Here’s exactly what to do before you hit the road.

Inspect and Prevent Water Issues

Water damage is one of the most common (and expensive) problems homeowners face while traveling. The vast majority of homeowners overlook leaks before leaving for vacation, and even small leaks can quickly escalate into a major disaster.

Key Steps:

Check under sinks and around appliances for leaks.
Inspect hoses on washing machines and dishwashers.
Turn off the main water supply if possible.
Clean out gutters and downspouts to prevent overflow.

Pro Tip: Install a smart water leak detector that alerts your phone at the first sign of moisture.

Learn more about smart home devices here: How Smart Home Devices Are Helping Prevent Fire and Water Damage

Water damage restoration can cost thousands of dollars, which is why prevention is critical. If you discover a leak during your pre-trip inspection, or if you return home to water intrusion, 24 Hour Flood Pros offers emergency water damage restoration and can help prevent secondary damage like mold growth through professional mold remediation services.

Eliminate Fire Hazards

Electrical issues and unattended appliances increase fire risk when no one is home to respond quickly.

Key Steps:

Unplug non-essential electronics and appliances.
Check for frayed wires or overloaded outlets.
Set your thermostat to a safe temperature.
Ensure smoke detectors have fresh batteries.

Pro Tip: Use smart plugs or timers to control devices remotely and reduce fire risks.

For more info on the most common fire hazards, read our guide: The Most Common Fire Hazards in Modern Homes (and How to Prevent Them)

Prepare for Summer Storms

Summer storms can bring heavy rain, high winds, and flash flooding — especially if your home isn’t properly maintained.

Key Steps:

Trim tree branches near your home.
Secure outdoor furniture and loose items.
Inspect your roof for loose shingles.
Ensure your sump pump is functioning properly.

Pro Tip: Test your sump pump before leaving and consider a battery backup in case of power outages.

Sump pump failure can also lead to sewage backup — definitely not something you want to come home to. Find out more here: Sewage Backups in Summer: Causes, Dangers, and What to Do

Summer storms can overwhelm your sump pump, especially during heavy downpours. If you notice your sump pump isn’t functioning properly before you leave, or if you return home to basement flooding, don’t wait sump pump backup systems and professional flood cleanup services are available 24/7 to handle storm-related water damage.

Take Care of Plumbing and Appliances

Unused systems still cause problems if they aren’t properly prepared.

Key Steps:

Drain and shut off outdoor hoses.
Set your water heater to vacation mode.
Empty and clean your refrigerator.
Run your garbage disposal and dishwasher before leaving.

Pro Tip: Pour a cup of vinegar down drains to help prevent odors and buildup while you’re gone.

Read our guide for more on the common causes of drain clogs: Common Causes of Clogged Drains and Knowing When to Call a Plumber

If you discover issues with your water heater, drains, or plumbing during your pre-trip check, our team can handle repairs before you leave. We offer water heater repair and replacement, drain snaking, and comprehensive bathroom plumbing services to get your systems working properly.

Final Check: Peace of Mind Before You Go

Before locking the door, do a final walkthrough. Double-check locks, appliances, and water sources. Taking these precautions helps you avoid coming home to unexpected and potentially costly damage.

If disaster does strike while you’re away, don’t panic. 24 Hour Flood Pros is ready to respond quickly with expert fire and water damage restoration services.