The bags are packed. The out-of-office is on. The only thing standing between you and a proper break is the question at the back of your mind: did I sort out the house?

A little preparation before you leave means you won’t spend your holiday wondering. Here’s how to get your home ready in an afternoon.

1. Lock it up properly

  • Check every door, window, sliding door, and security gate, including the small bathroom windows that are easy to forget.
  • Test your alarm and panic buttons.
  • Let your security company know your travel dates and who has access while you’re away.
  • Check your gate and garage remotes, and replace the batteries if they’re weak.

2. Make it look lived in

An empty-looking home is the easiest one to spot.

  • Put a few indoor lights on timers.
  • Make sure outdoor and motion-sensor lights are working.
  • Ask a trusted neighbour or friend to pop in, collect any post, and move things around a little.
  • Trim back overgrown shrubs near windows and walls, so there’s nowhere to hide.

3. Sort out water and power

  • Turn off the main water supply if no one will be at the home. A burst pipe on day two of a three-week trip is the kind of surprise nobody wants.
  • If you’re on prepaid electricity or water, top up before you go.
  • If you have solar or an inverter, check that it’s working and the batteries are healthy.
  • Unplug anything that doesn’t need to stay on. It reduces fire risk and saves electricity.

4. Leave the inside clean and safe

  • Empty the bins and clear the fridge of anything that won’t last.
  • Run the dishwasher and wipe the surfaces, so you come home to a clean house.
  • Lock away valuables, and keep jewellery and electronics out of sight from windows.

5. Plan for the rest

  • Garden and pool: arrange for someone to keep them maintained while you’re away.
  • Pets: book the kennel or house sitter early, as holiday spots fill up fast.
  • Keys: leave a spare with someone you trust, not under the pot plant.
  • Insurance: check your cover is up to date, and that it doesn’t lapse if the home is empty for a long period.
  • Contacts: leave your itinerary and emergency numbers with family or your house sitter.

6. Post later

Save the beach photos for when you’re home. Sharing your travel dates online in real time tells people exactly when the house is empty.

The short version

Lock it, light it, switch it off, and tell the right people. Then go and enjoy every minute.