Tips for "Closing" Your House or Apartment Before a Break

From the Department of Residential Living

Things To Do Before You Leave

It’s important to “close” your house/apartment before you leave for an extended period of time, such as Winter Break, Spring Break, or the summer. Here are a few suggestions before a break that will make your life easier when you return:

• Take home all valuables and anything you may want or need over the holidays. Make a list of things you must remember to take because packing at the last moment could ultimately mean leaving behind important items such as medication, glasses, money, your favorite shoes, etc.
• If you have pets in your room/apartment, please take them home, as lower temperatures may make it difficult for them to survive.
• Empty and defrost refrigerators; dispose of any perishable food that would spoil over the break. (Take such items to the nearest dumpster.) If you fail to dispose of perishable foods you are guaranteed a “not-so-fresh” room upon your return.
• Coordinate with your roommates/suitemates to arrange the cleaning of your bathroom showers, toilet and sink area. It is always nice to come home to a clean environment.
• Unplug all electrical items from outlets. This will guard against any power surges in the electrical system and protect your items.
• Please consider raising your computers or other electronic belongings off the floor. This will protect them in the event of an unexpected flood.
• Close & lock all your windows and lower your blinds/close curtains.
• Consider buying a photocell/timer to turn on an interior/exterior light at a predetermined time or when there is motion (find at hardware store).
• Keep your thermostat set to a temperature between 60-80°F. You must keep your apartment heated in Winter — even when you’re away — so that your pipes will not freeze. Frozen pipes can cause extensive and expensive damage. If you turn off your heat, you could be responsible for repairs. Extreme or prolonged summertime heat can encourage mold growth and make your home very stuffy when you return.
• Ask the Post Office to hold any mail until you return. Complete the form available at www.usps.com and put it in your mailbox.
• Empty your trash, turn off all your lights and LOCK your doors. (Don’t forget to use a wooden/metal bar to secure sliding doors.) If you have a security alarm, be sure to turn it on when leaving.

Quick Checklist: Things to Do Before Leaving for a Break

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