Vacation Prep: How to Prevent Mold and Disasters Before You Leave Your Home

Planning a well-deserved vacation? Whether you're heading to the beach in July or escaping the snow in January, it's important to take a few key precautions before locking up your house. Unattended homes are vulnerable to a variety of issues, especially water damage, mold growth, burst pipes and even fire hazards. At Advanced Restoration, we help homeowners prevent and recover from property disasters. Here’s your go-to guide for vacation-proofing your home, with important tips for both summer and winter getaways.

Summer Vacation Tips: Prevent Heat, Humidity & Mold

Warm weather brings its own set of risks, especially when it comes to mold and humidity.

1. Set the Thermostat

Keep your home’s temperature between 72–78°F to reduce humidity and discourage mold growth. Don’t shut off your HVAC system completely as humidity buildup can happen fast, especially in closed, unventilated spaces.

2. Use a Dehumidifier

Living on Long Island, you should consider running a dehumidifier in the basement of your home from April through the end of October, or longer if your home has exposure to high humidity levels or areas with limited airflow. Make sure the dehumidifier is draining into a drain, as if it is not, the dehumidifier will turn off once the drain bucket is full.

3. Check for Leaks

Inspect under sinks, behind appliances and around the HVAC system. Even a slow drip can lead to mold or structural damage over time.

4. Clear Gutters and Downspouts

A clogged gutter during a summer storm can cause water to pool around your foundation or seep into your basement.

5. Turn Off Water Supply

If possible, shut off your home’s main water valve. This is the easiest way to prevent leaks or flooding while you’re away.

6. Have a Friend Check In

Ask a neighbor, friend, or property manager to check on your home every few days

Winter Vacation Tips: Protect Against Frozen Pipes & Water Damage

Cold temperatures introduce different risks, especially frozen or burst pipes, which can cause major water damage. 

1. Keep the Heat On

Set your thermostat no lower than 55°F, even if it feels wasteful. Pipes in unheated spaces like basements, attics, or exterior walls are especially vulnerable.

2. Check for Drafty Windows, Especially Near Plumbing

Cold drafts from leaky windows or poor seals near sinks, bathrooms, or laundry areas can increase the risk of pipes freezing. Seal any cracks or gaps before you leave.

3. Open Cabinet Doors

Allow warm air to circulate around pipes under sinks and in utility rooms. This is a simple but effective way to prevent freezing.

4. Insulate Pipes

Add insulation to exposed piping in vulnerable areas. Foam pipe sleeves are inexpensive and easy to install.

5. Drain Outdoor Faucets

Disconnect hoses and shut off exterior water lines. Any leftover water can freeze and crack pipes.

6. Have a Friend Check In

Ask a neighbor, friend, or property manager to check on your home every few days, especially during extreme cold snaps.

General Tips for All Seasons

• Unplug non-essential electronics to reduce fire risk.

• Clean out your refrigerator if you'll be gone a while to avoid mold and odors.

• Test your sump pump (if you have one) to make sure it’s working properly.

• Install smart leak detectors near water heaters, sinks and appliances.

• Double check all windows and doors are locked and sealed tightly.

Heading Out of Town? Let Us Help Protect Your Property

At Advanced Restoration, we’ve seen the damage an unattended leak, mold outbreak, or frozen pipe can cause. By taking a few simple steps before you leave for vacation, you can enjoy peace of mind while you’re away and come back to a safe, sound home.

What to Do If You Find Damage After Returning Home

Despite your best efforts, sometimes damage still happens, especially after extreme cold, storms or unnoticed water damage. If you return home to musty odors, visible mold, or signs of water intrusion or water damage, don’t wait! Call Advanced Restoration right away. We offer 24/7 emergency services and full-service restoration for homes and businesses across Long Island!

Our certified remediation team will inspect, contain and safely restore your home quickly and professionally.

Final Thoughts

A few simple steps before your vacation can save you thousands in property damage. Be proactive, follow this checklist and enjoy peace of mind while you’re away.

Need help with a pre-vacation inspection or emergency water issue? Contact Advanced Restoration at (631) 422-2100 today.

Stay safe, stay prepared and enjoy your time away!