Planning for the off-season is crucial, regardless of whether your beach house is in Ocean City, Bethany Beach, Rehoboth Beach, or one of the quaint coastal communities in Delaware or Maryland. It's time to consider how to safeguard your property when it is vacant as summer draws to a close. Seasonal temperature drops, salt air, storms, and humidity are some of the special difficulties of living by the sea.

At WatchTower Home Services, we have direct experience with how minor mistakes can cause major issues for homeowners hundreds of miles away. Here is a thorough off-season checklist that every beach homeowner should adhere to before leaving town to protect their investment.

1. Turn off the main water supply

One of the easiest ways to avoid plumbing catastrophes is to turn off the water supply to your house. While you're away, a frozen or burst pipe can cause damage worth thousands of dollars. If cutting off the main isn't feasible, think about cutting off the water to certain fixtures and appliances.

2. Empty Outdoor Hoses and Spigots

Winter temperatures can drop below freezing even in coastal regions. Drain outdoor spigots and hoses to avoid leaks and cracks, which are frequently overlooked until spring.

3. Clean and empty the refrigerator

Unplug the refrigerator, toss any perishables, and keep the doors open. This procedure lessens the likelihood of mold, mildew, and odors developing in your house while you're away.

4. A safe temperature should be set on the thermostat

To help avoid frozen pipes and save energy during the winter, set the thermostat to 55°F. A tiny action can have a significant impact.

5. Unplug small appliances and electronics

Phantom energy use and power surges are serious issues. Before you leave, unplug everything, including TVs and toasters. This lowers the risk of fire in addition to saving energy.

6. Secure Outdoor Furnishings and Accents

Grills, patio furniture, and umbrellas need to be secured or stored. Off-season storms with strong winds have the potential to make these objects dangerous. During regular property inspections, WatchTower Home Services frequently discovers broken or dispersed items.

7. Close Off Pest Entry Points

Animals adore a deserted, peaceful beach house. Check your crawlspaces, attic, and vents for any gaps that could allow insects, squirrels, or raccoons to enter. Anything that could serve as a pest's winter residence should be sealed off.

8. Verify windows and doors twice

Verify that windows and doors are correctly sealed and that all locks are turned on. For added security and to stop warping from exposure to salty air, think about adding dowels to sliding doors.

9. For indoor lighting, use timers

Basic plug-in light timers can discourage burglaries by giving the appearance of activity. Configure a few lights in various rooms to switch on and off at different times.

10. Make Plans for Frequent Check-Ins at the Property.

Having a trustworthy, local pair of eyes inspect your house is more important than any checklist. By working with a reputable home security company like WatchTower Home Services, you can be sure that any issues—such as a leak, storm damage, or an unannounced visitor—will be handled promptly and expertly.

Conclusion: It's worth preparing for peace of mind. During the off-season, owning a beach house is about family, rest, and creating enduring memories, not stress and anxiety. By getting your property ready now, you can avoid unpleasant surprises later. Additionally, WatchTower Home Services acts as your eyes and ears on the ground when you are unable to be there, keeping your house safe and relieving your worries.