Leaving Home for Thanksgiving? A Homeowner's Guide to Preventing Holiday Property Problems

Travel With Peace of Mind: Protect Your Home Before Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is a time for family, gratitude, delicious food, and creating lasting memories.

But if you're traveling for the holiday, there's one important thing you shouldn't overlook before packing your bags:

Making sure your home is prepared while you're away.

Imagine enjoying Thanksgiving dinner with family when you receive an unexpected call about a water leak, an unsecured door, or a delivery sitting outside your house.

That's certainly not the holiday surprise anyone wants!

Whether you're leaving McDonough, Hampton, Stockbridge, Locust Grove, or another South Metro Atlanta community, a little preparation can help reduce the risk of preventable property problems.

From securing your entry points to checking plumbing and reviewing insurance coverage, here are six practical ways to protect your home before heading out for Thanksgiving.

1. Secure Every Entry Point Before You Leave

When preparing for holiday travel, it's easy to focus on packing, transportation, and family plans.

But before you leave, take time to inspect the areas where someone could enter your property.

Complete a Home Security Walkthrough

Check that:

• All exterior doors are securely locked.

• Windows are fully closed and latched.

• Garage doors are shut and functioning properly.

• Sliding doors have working locks.

• Storage sheds and detached structures are secured.

• Spare keys aren't left in obvious outdoor hiding places.

If you have a home security system, confirm that it's operating properly and that your contact information is current.

Make Your Home Look Occupied

Consider using programmable lighting or smart bulbs to turn selected lights on and off during the evening.

If you have exterior security lighting, test it before leaving.

Avoid posting detailed travel plans publicly while your home is unoccupied.

You can always share your Thanksgiving memories after returning.

Homeowner Tip: Before pulling out of the driveway, complete one final walkthrough instead of assuming everything is already secured.

Strategic Takeaway: A few minutes of security preparation can help reduce avoidable vulnerabilities.

2. Prevent Water Damage While You're Away

Water damage can become a serious and expensive problem when nobody is home to notice a leak.

A small plumbing issue may cause extensive damage if it continues for several days.

That's why plumbing deserves special attention before Thanksgiving travel.

Inspect Common Problem Areas

Look for visible leaks or moisture around:

Kitchen sinks: Check under the sink and around supply connections.

Bathroom fixtures: Look for dripping faucets, running toilets, or signs of water around the base of fixtures.

Washing machines: Inspect accessible hoses and connections for visible wear or leakage.

Water heaters: Check for moisture, unusual sounds, or known maintenance concerns.

Appliance connections: Look around refrigerators and dishwashers where water lines are present.

If you notice a problem, arrange for appropriate repairs before traveling.

Know Where Your Main Water Shutoff Valve Is Located

Every homeowner should know how to locate and operate the main water shutoff valve.

For some homes, shutting off the water supply before an extended absence may be appropriate.

However, don't turn off systems without understanding how they interact with water heaters, fire sprinklers, heating equipment, or other connected components.

If you're unsure, ask a qualified plumber.

Consider Water Leak Detectors

Water sensors placed near vulnerable fixtures can provide alerts when moisture is detected.

Some smart systems can also notify homeowners remotely.

These devices aren't a substitute for maintenance, but they may offer an additional layer of protection.

Homeowner Tip: Address known leaks before leaving. Don't rely on a towel or bucket to manage an unresolved plumbing problem.

Strategic Takeaway: Preventing water damage starts with identifying vulnerabilities before the house is empty.

3. Prepare Your HVAC System for Changing Temperatures

Late November in Georgia can bring changing temperatures.

Even if the forecast looks comfortable when you leave, conditions may shift while you're traveling.

Your heating and cooling system should be prepared to maintain appropriate indoor conditions.

Check Your Thermostat

Before leaving, select a thermostat setting that protects the property and its contents while avoiding unnecessary energy use.

The appropriate temperature depends on the weather, home construction, plumbing locations, and heating system.

Don't switch off your heat entirely when freezing conditions are possible.

Review Basic HVAC Maintenance

Consider these steps:

• Check whether the air filter needs replacement.

• Confirm the thermostat responds properly.

• Make sure supply and return vents aren't blocked.

• Address unusual system noises or known performance issues.

• Schedule professional service if the equipment needs attention.

If your property has a smart thermostat, confirm that its remote monitoring features work before departure.

Don't Forget Exterior Conditions

Clear leaves and debris from accessible drainage areas where safe to do so.

Check that outdoor equipment isn't obstructed by landscaping.

For more complex maintenance or equipment concerns, contact a qualified professional.

Homeowner Tip: Review the forecast for your property's location before leaving and arrange for someone to check the home if severe weather is expected.

Strategic Takeaway: Proper temperature management and routine maintenance can help protect your home while you're away.

4. Manage Packages, Mail, and Deliveries

Thanksgiving travel often overlaps with holiday shopping.

That means packages may arrive while you're away.

Unattended deliveries can create security concerns and make it obvious that nobody is home.

Create a Delivery Plan

Before traveling:

Pause or reschedule deliveries. Use retailer or carrier options where available.

Consider a secure pickup location. A staffed pickup point or approved parcel locker may be useful.

Arrange for a trusted person to collect packages. Ask a neighbor, friend, or family member who has agreed to help.

Manage mail accumulation. For eligible addresses, consider the USPS Hold Mail service or another appropriate arrangement.

Keep Your Property Looking Maintained

If you're leaving for an extended period, arrange for someone you trust to check the exterior of the property.

Ask them to look for unexpected deliveries, storm damage, or other visible concerns.

Avoid giving out keys or access codes unnecessarily.

Homeowner Tip: If you're expecting an important delivery, coordinate its arrival before your trip instead of hoping it will remain safe outside.

Strategic Takeaway: A simple delivery plan can reduce unnecessary exposure while your home is unoccupied.

5. Review Your Homeowners Insurance Before Traveling

Homeowners insurance is an important part of protecting your property, but not every type of loss is covered.

Coverage depends on your policy, endorsements, exclusions, deductibles, and the circumstances of the damage.

Before leaving for Thanksgiving, take a few minutes to review your insurance information.

Questions Worth Asking

• Is my homeowners policy active and current?

• What types of water damage are covered?

• Are there exclusions or conditions related to an unoccupied home?

• What deductible would apply to a covered loss?

• How do I report a claim if damage occurs while I'm away?

• Do I have appropriate coverage for valuable personal belongings?

Some policies distinguish between a home being temporarily unoccupied and a property being vacant for a longer period.

Those definitions and their implications can vary.

Keep Important Information Accessible

Save your insurance company's contact information and policy details in a secure location you can access while traveling.

Consider maintaining an updated home inventory with photographs or other documentation of important belongings.

If you own a rental property or second home, confirm that the insurance policy matches the property's actual use.

Homeowner Tip: Contact your insurance agent before traveling if you have questions about coverage or policy requirements.

Strategic Takeaway: Understanding your coverage before a problem occurs is better than discovering an unexpected limitation afterward.

6. Ask Someone You Trust to Keep an Eye on Your Home

Technology can be helpful, but having a reliable person nearby may provide additional peace of mind.

If you'll be away for several days, consider asking a trusted neighbor, friend, or family member to check on your property.

Create a Simple Home Check-In Plan

Let your designated contact know:

• Approximately when you'll be away.

• How to reach you in an emergency.

• Whether any deliveries are expected.

• Where important emergency contacts are stored.

• What unusual conditions they should report.

You don't need to ask someone to perform maintenance or enter the property unless that has been agreed upon.

A quick exterior check may be enough to identify an obvious issue.

If you use cameras or other smart-home devices, verify that they work before leaving.

Protect Your Privacy

Share access information only with people you trust.

Avoid leaving detailed travel schedules in publicly visible locations.

Homeowner Tip: If you arrange a property check-in, provide clear instructions and avoid asking someone to handle repairs beyond their experience.

Strategic Takeaway: A trusted local contact can be a valuable part of your holiday travel plan.

Your Thanksgiving Home Safety Checklist

Before you leave, review these essential steps:

Home Protection Priority	What to Do
Doors and Windows	Lock and secure all entry points
Security System	Test alarms, cameras, and alerts
Plumbing	Check for leaks and locate the main water shutoff
HVAC	Set an appropriate temperature and check system operation
Exterior Lighting	Confirm lights and timers work
Deliveries	Pause, redirect, or arrange package pickup
Insurance	Review policy details and emergency contacts
Property Check-Ins	Coordinate with a trusted person if appropriate

Keep this checklist handy whenever you're planning an extended trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I turn off my water before leaving for Thanksgiving?

It may be appropriate for some homes, but the decision depends on the property's plumbing and connected systems. Consult a qualified plumber if you're unsure how shutting off the water could affect your home.

What temperature should I leave my thermostat on while traveling?

There isn't one ideal setting for every property. Consider the forecast, home construction, heating equipment, and freeze-protection needs. Avoid turning off necessary heating when freezing temperatures are possible.

Does homeowners insurance cover damage while I'm on vacation?

Some losses may be covered, but coverage varies by policy and circumstances. Review your insurance documents and ask your insurer about relevant exclusions and requirements.

How can I make my house look occupied while I'm away?

Programmable lighting, managed deliveries, maintained exterior areas, and a trusted person checking the property may help. Avoid publicly announcing that your home is empty.

What should I do if a smart-home device alerts me to a problem?

Assess the alert and contact an appropriate trusted person, service professional, or emergency responder. Don't attempt to manage a potentially dangerous situation remotely without qualified assistance.

The Bottom Line: Enjoy Thanksgiving Without Worrying About Home

Thanksgiving should be about enjoying time with loved ones—not wondering whether you remembered to lock the back door or check for leaks.

While no checklist can eliminate every possible property risk, a thoughtful home protection plan can help you reduce preventable problems and travel with greater confidence.

Secure your entry points.

Check your plumbing and HVAC systems.

Manage deliveries.

Understand your insurance coverage.

And make sure someone you trust knows how to reach you if an issue arises.

Because protecting your home is about more than safeguarding a property.

It's about protecting the place where your everyday life and future memories unfold.

Protect Your Home. Plan Your Next Move Strategically.

Whether you're maintaining your current property, preparing to sell, purchasing your first home, or exploring a new opportunity in McDonough, Hampton, Stockbridge, Locust Grove, or surrounding South Metro Atlanta communities, informed homeownership begins with preparation.

Contact us today to schedule your complimentary Homebuyer or Home Seller Strategy Call.

Let's make sure your next real estate decision supports your lifestyle, goals, and long-term plans.

Move Strategically. Live Abundantly.

Disclaimer: This article provides general homeowner education and is not a substitute for professional security, plumbing, HVAC, or insurance advice. Consult qualified professionals for property-specific recommendations.