Though the headlines may scream recession, there are also lots of travel deals to be had, as resorts lower prices to fill empty seats. Lots of Canadians are heading south for some sun and sand, or taking to the ski hills. We know about sunscreen and passports, but there are preparations for your home also. If you thought the worse thing that could happen in your absence is a moldy apple on the counter or a dying fern, think again. When you go away during the winter months, there are lots of risks involved with leaving your home empty.
“One client came home from enjoying a ski week away to find that the living room ceiling had collapsed onto the TV, and there was over 2” of water in the basement” recounts Rebecca Page, President of Concierge Home Services. “A window had been left open in the bathroom, causing a pipe to freeze. Water had been pouring for days, causing damage to the 2 floors below. It was a huge, expensive mess. Now they make sure they call us whenever they made travel plans”
Concierge Home Services is a household management company, whose services include housechecks. This involves bringing in the mail, watering plants, ensuring the furnace is on, and checking windows. Cats, fish or other small pets can also be cared for.
The worst part of the roof story? The insurance company denied the claim. The home was left unoccupied, without someone checking in every 48 hours, as required by their policy. Rebecca recommends that homeowners ask their broker or provider for the details of their own insurance policy, and the frequency of housechecks required. Then check in your area for a service that will come in to visually inspect your house for any leaks or breakage. She says “Look for a service with a good reputation, with a solid emergency contact procedure, and extensive liability insurance of its own.” Then you can relax on the beach or the ski cabin, knowing that you won't return home to frozen pipes, leaky roof, and a big repair bill.
By Rebecca Page
Concierge Home Services
Rebecca@conciergehomeservices.com
