“An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” — Benjamin Franklin
Each year, tens of thousands of Florida snowbirds pack their bags, wave goodbye to palm trees and sunshine, and head north for the summer. It’s a ritual. A migration. A lifestyle.
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But here’s the part most people don’t talk about: Florida homes don’t like being left alone.
Humidity creeps in. Mold spores flourish. Storms strike unexpectedly. A tiny leak becomes a full-blown disaster. And if you’re not prepared? You could come home to a mess that’s expensive, stressful, and completely avoidable.
This isn’t about overreacting. It’s about smart planning. If you’re a seasonal Florida resident—or helping a parent who is—it’s time to treat your home like the investment it is.
Let’s get into what you need to do before you leave, and just as importantly, when you return.
Part 1: Before You Leave – Your Florida Exit Checklist
1. Protect Against Mold and Mildew
Florida humidity doesn’t take a vacation. If left unmanaged, it can turn your home into a breeding ground for mildew in just a few weeks.
Do this:
- Set your thermostat to 77–80°F and leave the A/C running. Yes, even if you're gone for months. A programmable or smart thermostat is worth its weight in gold.
- Keep interior doors open to encourage airflow.
- Use moisture absorbers (like DampRid) in closets and bathrooms.
- Replace your HVAC filter before you leave—dirty filters reduce efficiency and increase humidity.
Pro tip: Install a smart thermostat with humidity sensors so you can monitor your home from anywhere.
2. Shut Off the Water — But Don’t Forget the Extras
Water damage is the number one cause of insurance claims for snowbirds. A small leak can destroy drywall, flooring, and furniture if undetected.
Do this:
- Turn off the main water valve to the house.
- Open a few taps to drain any remaining water.
- Empty and unplug your water heater (especially older models that may leak).
- Consider a water leak detection system that shuts off the water automatically if it senses a problem.
Don’t forget: If you have an ice maker, washing machine, or dishwasher, turn off their supply lines too.
3. Unplug Non-Essential Electronics
Even when off, electronics can draw power and be vulnerable to lightning strikes or surges during Florida’s summer storm season.
Do this:
- Unplug TVs, computers, microwaves, routers, and small appliances.
- Keep the fridge plugged in (unless you're fully emptying and defrosting it—see below).
- Use surge protectors for devices you leave running (like your alarm system or internet).
4. Refrigerator Strategy: Empty or Not?
If you’re gone for more than four weeks, your refrigerator could struggle. Power outages or compressor wear can lead to spoiled food—or worse, leaks and smells that linger forever.
Two solid options:
- Empty, clean, and unplug it. Prop doors open with a towel to prevent odor and mold.
- Leave it running, but clean it out and discard anything that can spoil. Set it to its coldest setting.
5. Secure Your Home (Without Advertising You’re Gone)
Burglars know when snowbird season hits. An unkempt yard and a pile of mail are flashing beacons.
Do this:
- Pause your mail or forward it.
- Set interior lights on timers.
- Hire lawn or landscaping services to keep things trimmed.
- Notify a trusted neighbor or hire a home-watch service to do regular checks.
- Check all windows and doors. Lock them. And don’t forget the garage.
Avoid posting travel dates on social media. You can share the beach pics later.
6. Pest-Proof Your Property
Cockroaches, ants, and rodents thrive in Florida summers—especially in quiet, dark homes.
Do this:
- Schedule a pest control treatment right before leaving.
- Remove all food from pantry shelves.
- Seal pet food or dry goods in airtight containers.
- Check for any entry points and seal them—especially under sinks or in the garage.
7. Storm-Readiness
Summer in Florida means hurricane season. Don’t assume a storm won’t strike while you’re away.
Do this:
- Bring in outdoor furniture and decor.
- Close hurricane shutters or install storm panels.
- Review your homeowner’s insurance and make sure your policy is up to date.
- Take photos of your home and valuables for documentation.
8. Leave a List Behind
Create a reference for whoever is watching your home—or even for yourself when you return.
Include:
- Alarm codes
- Emergency contacts
- Maintenance service info (pool, lawn, pest control)
- Wi-Fi password
- Instructions for your thermostat or smart home system
Part 2: When You Return – Your Reentry Checklist
Florida welcomes you back with heat, humidity, and (if you're lucky) an intact home. Here's how to make sure your reentry is smooth.
1. Turn the Water Back On – Cautiously
Don’t just open the valve and walk away.
Do this:
- Turn the main water line back on slowly.
- Listen for any dripping, hissing, or leaks.
- Turn on faucets one at a time to let air out of the pipes.
Watch your water heater for signs of leakage or rust if it sat empty for months.
2. Reset the Thermostat
Get your A/C working efficiently again—don’t let it blast unnecessarily or run on old settings.
Do this:
- Clean or replace the air filter.
- Set your preferred temperature (usually 74–76°F).
- Check for signs of mold or excess moisture, especially near vents or in closets.
3. Check Appliances and Electronics
Unplugged or dormant devices can sometimes glitch on reactivation.
Do this:
- Plug in the fridge if you unplugged it.
- Test your washer, dryer, microwave, and oven.
- Reboot your Wi-Fi router and smart home devices.
4. Walk Your Property – Inside and Out
Look for:
- Leaks under sinks or around the water heater
- Pest activity (droppings, chewed materials)
- Roof damage, gutter issues, or yard debris
- Storm or wind damage
5. Reopen Accounts and Services
Depending on what you paused before leaving:
- Resume mail delivery
- Reconnect with home maintenance pros
- Reset light timers and sprinkler systems
6. Reconnect with Community
You’re not just returning to your house—you’re reentering your Florida life.
- Touch base with neighbors or community contacts.
- Attend a local event or HOA meeting to get reoriented.
- Schedule services early—contractors book up fast when snowbirds return.
Your Florida Home Is a Living Asset—Treat It Like One
Being a snowbird is a luxury. But it comes with responsibility. Your home in Florida needs attention, even when you’re not there to give it.
The good news? With this checklist, you’re no longer at the mercy of mold, water leaks, or nasty surprises. You’re in control. You’re protecting your investment, your comfort, and your peace of mind.
So go ahead—enjoy that northern summer with confidence. And when you return? Your Florida home will be just as welcoming as the sunshine.
