How to Prepare Your Apartment Before a Long Trip
A little preparation before you leave helps you come home to a clean, safe apartment instead of a problem. This checklist suits renters and takes less than an hour.
Kitchen and trash
- Take out the trash and recycling
- Use or freeze perishable food
- Empty the dishwasher and wipe surfaces
Appliances and utilities
Unplug small appliances you will not use, or put several on a power strip you can switch off. Set the thermostat to a sensible level for the season.
Water and safety
Check for dripping taps or leaks before you go. Make sure smoke alarms are working.
Mail and packages
Ask a neighbor to collect mail and parcels, or pause deliveries. Piled-up packages can signal that nobody is home.
Make the place look lived in
Light timers or smart plugs can turn a lamp on and off at regular times. Avoid posting your travel dates publicly while you are away.
Tell someone
Leave your landlord or a trusted neighbor your contact details and a way to reach you in an emergency, and let them know how long you will be gone.
Running through this list before you lock up lets you relax and enjoy the trip.
