The temperatures are starting to cool down and you, like many, may be starting to pack your bags to head south for the winter. However, before you rush off to enjoy the sunshine, make sure you’re properly prepared to leave your home for a few months. Here’s a checklist to help you get ready.
Snowbird Checklist:
Bring/have access to certain legal documents, such as healthcare directives, in case of a medical emergency.
Have a list of applicable prescriptions in case of emergency.
If leaving a car behind, plan to have a family member or friend run the car on occasion.
Arrange for snow removal and lawn care if needed.
If available, sign up for power outage alerts power provider. Sign up for weather alerts for your area.
Store valuables in a safe, a safe deposit box or with family or friends.
Notify your utility companies that you will be away.
Turn off the exterior water supply.
Turn off water supply for dishwasher, extra icemaker, washing machine, etc.
Turn off or turn down water heaters to lower energy costs and reduce the risk of fire.
Give a key to the house to a family member, neighbor, or friend.
Have a family member, neighbor, or friend come over and check on things periodically inside and out.
Notify the town police or a town official of your extended absence so they can monitor your property. In the event your alarm is triggered, they will be aware you are not home.
Make sure timers are set for inside and outside lights. If possible, vary the inside light times
Secure outside items like outdoor furniture, sheds, gates, etc.
Reset programmable thermostats so you keep the house cooler warm enough to avoid frozen pipes.
Have your calls forwarded from your home number to your cell or new number.
For some people, it might be appropriate to install external cameras. There are affordable systems available that can be monitored through a simple app.
Forward your USPS mail to your winter residence.
Update your default shipping addresses (with Amazon or other retailers) to the winter address, so you don’t ship to your primary residence by mistake.
Contact your custodian to set up electronic delivery of your account statements and other related documents. You also can do this through your online access or speak to someone on your Modera team for assistance.
Please contact your wealth manager with any questions as you prepare. If you plan to make your second home state your legal residence, let us know so we can update our records and guide you accordingly.
We wish you safe and healthy travels as you enjoy the winter months.
