Heading out of town for the holidays should be exciting — not stressful. Unfortunately, unattended homes are especially vulnerable to water damage from burst pipes, appliance failures, and hidden leaks.
And a small issue can turn into a costly disaster if it goes unnoticed for days.
Before you lock the door and hit the road, take these proactive steps to protect your home while you’re away.
Shut Off or Secure Your Water Supply
One of the most effective ways to prevent major water damage is to control your water source. If possible, shut off the main water valve before leaving. If that’s not practical, turn off water to high-risk areas like:
- Washing Machines
- Dishwashers
- Outdoor Spigots
This simple step can prevent thousands of gallons of water from flooding your home if a pipe or hose fails while you’re gone.
Pro Tip: If you’re unsure where your main water shut-off valve is, locate and label it now —
before an emergency happens.
For more holiday and vacation safety tips, read our guides:
- What to Do When Holiday Disasters Strike: A Quick Action Plan
- Vacation Preparedness: How to Protect Your Home from Water and Fire Damage Before You Leave
Prepare Pipes for Cold Weather
Winter travel comes with an added risk — frozen pipes. When temperatures drop, water inside pipes can freeze, expand, and burst — often causing severe flooding once the ice thaws.
Keep your thermostat set to at least 55°F, even if you’re away. Open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air to circulate around plumbing, and consider insulating exposed pipes in basements or crawl spaces.
Pro Tip: If you’ll be gone for an extended period, have a professional winterize your plumbing system for added peace of mind.
Not sure if your home is winter-ready? We’ve got you covered: Is Your Home Winter-Ready? Avoid Frozen Pipes and Fire Hazards
Inspect Appliances and Water-Using Fixtures
Appliances like water heaters, refrigerators with ice makers, and washing machines are common sources of leaks. Before leaving, inspect hoses and connections for:
- Cracks
- Corrosion
- Loose Fittings
Replace worn hoses with braided stainless steel versions for added durability. Also, check toilets and faucets for slow leaks that could worsen over time.
Pro Tip: Even a small drip can cause significant damage over several days — address minor issues before they become major problems. Consider installing smart home devices that can alert you to leaks in real time.
Learn more about smart home detection devices here: How Smart Home Devices Are Helping Prevent Fire and Water Damage
Enlist a Trusted House Watch
Having someone periodically check on your home is one of the best safeguards against water damage. A trusted neighbor, friend, or professional house-sitting service can spot leaks early, check indoor temperatures, and ensure everything looks normal.
Early detection can make the difference between a quick fix and extensive water damage restoration. Make sure you leave your contact information — and the number for 24 Hour Flood Pros — with your house watcher in case of emergencies.
Travel With Confidence, Not Concern
Water damage doesn’t take a holiday, but a little preparation can go a long way. By securing your water supply, protecting your pipes, inspecting appliances, and arranging home check-ins, you can enjoy your travels knowing your home is protected.
And if the unexpected does happen, 24 Hour Flood Pros is available 24/7 to respond quickly and restore your property.
