What to Do Before Leaving Your Rental for a Summer Trip
3 min read.
Summer is one of the best times to travel, but before you head out on vacation, it’s important to make sure your rental is properly prepared. A few simple steps can help you protect your space, avoid stress, and ensure you return home to everything just as you left it.
Here’s a quick checklist every renter should follow before heading out on a summer trip.
Plan Ahead for Rent and Utilities
Before you leave, make sure your rent and utilities are paid or scheduled in advance. Setting up automatic payments helps you avoid missed due dates while you’re away. If autopay isn’t an option, paying early gives you peace of mind and lets you focus on your trip without worrying about deadlines or late fees.
It’s also helpful to double-check your bank account and confirm that all upcoming payments are scheduled before you leave.
Manage Mail and Deliveries to Prevent Pileups and Lost Packages
Mail and packages can pile up quickly while you’re away, and an overflowing mailbox can signal that no one is home.
Pause mail delivery or ask a trusted neighbour or family member to collect your items. If you live in an apartment building, notify management so they can hold packages or place them in a secure location until your return.
This helps prevent lost packages and keeps shared areas tidy.
Secure Your Unit Before Leaving for Added Safety and Peace of Mind
Before leaving, do a full walkthrough of your rental. Lock all doors and windows, including balcony doors and secondary entrances. Make sure all appliances are off and nothing is left running unnecessarily.
Check that taps are fully turned off and that no electronics or small appliances are plugged in.
If you have a vehicle, remove valuables, lock it properly, and park it in a safe, designated area.
Notify Your Landlord and Arrange Emergency Access
Before you leave, let your landlord or property manager know you’ll be away, especially if it’s for an extended period. This ensures they can reach you if an emergency or maintenance issue arises while you’re gone.
You may also want to leave a spare key with a trusted family member or friend so they can access your unit if something urgent happens that needs immediate attention, such as a leak or repair.
Clean Before You Go for a Fresh Return
Take a few minutes to tidy your space before you leave. Take out garbage and recycling, wash any dishes, and make sure no perishable food is left in the fridge.
Even small items left behind can cause unpleasant smells or attract pests over time. A quick clean ensures you return to a fresh and comfortable space that feels organized, clean, and welcoming, making it easier to relax and settle in as soon as you walk through the door.
Unplug Electronics for Safety and Energy Savings
Unplug devices such as TVs, gaming consoles, coffee makers, and chargers before leaving. Many electronics still draw power even when not in use, so unplugging them reduces energy use and adds an extra layer of safety while you’re away.
Taking a few minutes to prepare your rental before a summer trip can make a big difference. From managing bills and securing your unit to arranging mail and cleaning, these simple steps help prevent issues while you’re away.
With everything in place, you can enjoy your time off knowing your rental is safe, secure, and exactly how you left it when you return.
References
ApartmentSearch. (2014, June 16). Apartment checklist: What to do before you go on summer vacation. https://blog.apartmentsearch.com/apartment-safety/apartment-checklist-what-to-do-before-you-go-on-summer-vacation/
Craig, C. (2019, August 31). 9 things to do in your apartment before you go on vacation. Apartment Guide. https://www.apartmentguide.com/blog/before-you-go-on-vacation/
ICD Insurance. (2024, April 1). Renters on vacation: What you need to know. https://icdinsurance.ca/blog/renters-on-vacation-what-you-need-to-know/
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