Don't Let Your Empty Home Ruin Your Winter Getaway

Winter is prime travel season. Snowbirds head south, families escape for a mid-winter break, and some people simply need a week somewhere that doesn't involve endless grey skies and rain. The problem is that empty homes in Vancouver don't just sit quietly waiting for you to return — they can attract break-ins, water damage, and insurance headaches if no one's paying attention.

A little planning before you leave can save you a lot of stress (and money) when you get back.

Make Your Home Look Lived-In

An untended lawn after a week of rain, newspapers piling up, or parcels sitting on your doorstep are all clear signals that no one's home. Arrange for someone to check on your property while you're away — whether that's a neighbour, a family member, or a service. Have them bring in mail and packages, and if we get one of those surprise snowfalls, make sure someone can clear your walkway and driveway.

Inside, use timers on lights so your home doesn't sit in total darkness every night. You don't need the full Christmas-movie "Home Alone" routine — just enough activity to look normal from the street.

Keep the Heat On (Yes, Really)

Vancouver winters are mild compared to the prairies, but we still get cold snaps, and turning the heat way down to save money is one of the most common winter-travel mistakes I see. Most insurance policies require that your home be kept at a minimum temperature while vacant, and frozen pipes are far more expensive than a slightly higher heating bill.

Set the thermostat to a consistent, safe temperature — typically around 15-18°C minimum — and leave it there. If you have a smart thermostat, check it remotely while you're away to make sure everything's running as it should, especially during those occasional Arctic outflow events we get.

Watch Out for Water Issues

Vancouver's real winter threat isn't usually freezing — it's rain. Lots of it. Before you leave, check your gutters and downspouts to make sure they're clear and draining properly. A week of heavy rain combined with clogged drainage can lead to flooding, foundation issues, or water intrusion.

If you're leaving for more than a few days, consider shutting off the main water supply and draining exposed lines, especially if your home is older or if temperatures are forecasted to drop below zero. If shutting off water isn't practical, at minimum make sure sinks on exterior walls are clear underneath so warm air can circulate.

Let Someone Be Your "Winter Watch"

Most insurance policies require someone to check on your home while you're away — sometimes every 24 to 72 hours. Ask a trusted neighbour, friend, or family member to do a quick walkthrough. This doesn't need to be formal, but it does need to happen.

Have them flush toilets, run taps briefly, check for leaks, and look for anything that seems off — dampness, unusual sounds, or that distinct musty smell that means something's gone wrong. It's much easier to deal with a small issue early than a major problem after a week of atmospheric rivers.

Be Smart About Social Media

This one's simple: don't broadcast that you're out of town in real time. Posting beach photos while you're still away tells the whole internet that your house is empty. Save the vacation posts for when you're back — your tan will still look great.

Lock Up Like You Mean It

Before you leave, double-check doors, windows, garage access points, and sheds. Make sure motion lights are working and cameras (if you have them) are online and recording properly. Small things like a burnt-out bulb or a loose garage door can undo all your other precautions.

With our mild, wet winters, we sometimes get complacent about security because break-ins feel like more of a summer problem. They're not. Empty homes are targets year-round.

A Quick Insurance Check Is Worth It

Insurance policies vary, and winter vacancy clauses are not something you want to misunderstand. Before you travel, take five minutes to confirm your responsibilities — temperature requirements, home checks, and any exclusions that might apply if something goes wrong while you're away.

Check your policy specifically. Many require visits every 48-72 hours, and if no one checks and something happens, you could void coverage entirely.

Travel With Peace of Mind

Travelling in winter should end with warm memories, not an emergency call from a neighbour or a frantic dash home. A few simple steps before you leave can make all the difference — and let you enjoy your trip without worrying about what's happening back home.

If you're planning to travel, thinking about selling in the spring, or just want a second set of eyes on how your home stacks up from a risk perspective, feel free to reach out. I'm always happy to walk through what your home needs — winter prep, spring selling strategy, whatever's on your mind — even when you're somewhere warmer than Vancouver.