Owning a seasonal home in Tampa Bay is a dream come true, but leaving it vacant for months at a time can turn that dream into a costly nightmare if you’re not careful. Many snowbirds assume locking up and asking a neighbor to check in occasionally is enough, but the reality is that unattended homes face unique risks that require professional oversight.

To help you avoid common pitfalls, we’ve compiled the 10 critical mistakes Tampa Bay snowbirds make when leaving their homes—and how you can prevent them.

1. Failing to Protect Against Humidity and Mold

Mistake:
Many homeowners forget that Florida’s high humidity levels can wreak havoc on an unoccupied property, leading to mold infestations and damage to furniture, walls, and electronics.

Solution:

• Keep your thermostat set to 75-78°F with a humidity control system.
• Regularly inspect for moisture buildup in key areas such as basements, closets, and bathrooms.
• Consider using desiccants or dehumidifiers in particularly humid areas.

Pro Tip:
A professional home watch service can perform routine inspections and adjust settings as needed to prevent costly repairs.

2. Ignoring Plumbing Precautions

Mistake:
Water leaks are one of the most common and expensive problems in vacant homes. A small, unnoticed leak can turn into thousands of dollars in water damage.

Solution:

• Turn off the main water supply before leaving.
• Drain pipes if you’ll be away for several months to prevent burst pipes.
• Have a professional home watch team flush toilets and run faucets regularly to prevent dry traps and odors.

3. Overlooking Security Vulnerabilities

Mistake:
An unoccupied home is an easy target for burglars and squatters, especially if it looks vacant with piled-up mail, dark windows, and overgrown landscaping.

Solution:

• Install timers on lights and motion-sensor cameras.
• Arrange for mail collection or forward it to your primary residence.
• Hire a home watch service to ensure the property appears occupied with regular maintenance checks.

4. Skipping Regular A/C Maintenance

Mistake:
Your air conditioning unit works overtime in Florida’s heat. If neglected, it can break down, leading to discomfort and expensive repairs upon your return.

Solution:

• Have filters changed regularly.
• Schedule professional HVAC maintenance before leaving and when you return.
• A home watch provider can monitor for unusual noises or performance issues.

5. Not Preparing for Hurricane Season

Mistake:
Many seasonal residents leave without considering the risks posed by Florida’s unpredictable hurricane season. Strong winds and heavy rain can cause devastating damage to an unattended home.

Solution:

• Secure outdoor furniture and trim trees before leaving.
• Install hurricane shutters or impact-resistant windows.
• Ensure you have an emergency response plan in place with a home watch service that offers post-storm inspections.

6. Relying on Well-Meaning Friends and Neighbors

Mistake:
Asking a friend or neighbor to “keep an eye” on your property might seem like an easy solution, but they often lack the experience and attention to detail needed to catch early warning signs of potential problems.

Solution:

• Hire professionals who are trained to inspect homes systematically and provide detailed reports.
• Consider a home watch service that offers scheduled visits and 24/7 emergency response.

7. Failing to Maintain Landscaping and Pool Care

Mistake:
Unkempt landscaping and dirty pools are not only an eyesore but also an invitation for pests and unwanted attention from the neighborhood HOA.

Solution:

• Schedule regular landscaping and pool cleaning services.
• Home watch professionals can coordinate maintenance services on your behalf and ensure everything is done correctly.

8. Underestimating the Importance of Insurance Compliance

Mistake:
Many insurance policies require regular home inspections when the property is vacant for extended periods. Failure to comply could void your coverage in the event of damage.

Solution:

• Review your homeowner’s insurance policy and confirm requirements.
• Work with a home watch provider who offers detailed inspection reports for insurance purposes.

9. Leaving Valuables Unsecured

Mistake:
Leaving expensive items such as electronics, jewelry, or important documents inside the home can make it a prime target for break-ins.

Solution:

• Store valuables in a safe deposit box or a secure offsite location.
• Use security systems with remote monitoring capabilities.
• Ensure regular visual checks are conducted for any signs of forced entry.

10. Forgetting About Pest Control

Mistake:
An empty home can become a haven for rodents, termites, and other pests if preventative measures aren’t taken.

Solution:

• Schedule regular pest control services before leaving.
• Seal any potential entry points around doors, windows, and vents.
• Home watch services can check for signs of infestations and arrange treatments if needed.

Take Immediate Action to Protect Your Investment

Avoiding these common mistakes can save you thousands of dollars in potential damages and countless headaches. Instead of relying on guesswork, trust In Good Hands Home Watch Services to keep your Tampa Bay property in pristine condition year-round.

Why Choose Us?
✅ Licensed, insured, and NHWA accredited professionals.
✅ Detailed inspection reports with photos and updates.
✅ 24/7 emergency response and concierge services tailored to your needs.
✅ Trusted by seasonal residents across St. Petersburg, Clearwater, and Tampa.

📲 Ready to ensure your home stays protected?
Schedule your free consultation today and experience worry-free homeownership with In Good Hands Home Watch Services.

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