Checklist
EXTERIOR
At Desert Haven Home Watch, our thorough 60-point inspection and maintenance checklist covers everything needed to keep your home safe and protected while you are away.
Mail (3 Tasks)
- Check mail and bring inside; alert homeowner of important mail and forward if necessary
- Check for packages and bring inside
- Remove newspapers, flyers, advertisements, etc. from entryways and bring inside or place in recycle bin
Property (12 Tasks)
- Perform a 360-degree exterior walk of the property
- Gingerly turn on the water valve to the house to begin the home watch inspection (upon request if owner wants the water valve turned off while away)
- Check for noticeable drainage problems
- Look for signs of squatters, vandalism, burglary, and theft
- Check water spigots/hose bibs for water leaks
- Confirm exterior lights are functioning
- Check for signs of damage on the roof (from the ground)
- Check window screens and screen enclosures for damage
- Check gutters for obstructions (from the ground)
- Check soffits for cracks
- Check housing siding for cracks and damage
- Check windows for cracks
Lawn & Garden (4 Tasks)
- Check lawn for signs of insects, fungus, overwatering, and under-watering
- Check trees, plants, ect. for signs of insects, fungus, overwatering, and under-watering
- Confirm lawn care service is being performed
- Check irrigation controller to ensure correct watering days and time
Pool (3 Tasks)
- Check that pool service is being performed
- Check pool water level is above the skimmer and add water if needed
- Check that the pool pump is running
INTERIOR
Windows/Doors and Security (7 Tasks)
- Test alarm system to confirm it is functioning properly (upon request)
- Check that all doors to the home are locked
- Check that windows are closed and locked
- Operate the garage doors to check drive chain mechanism (can be locked upon request)
- Check windows for cracks
- Check window frames and window sills for signs of water damage and leaks
- Check doors for signs of water damage or leaks
Water-Related (8 Tasks)
- Run faucets to lubricate seals and keep trap full to prevent odors and insects
- Flush toilets to lubricate seals and keep scum ring from forming
- Check behind toilets for water leaks
- Check under sinks for water leaks
- Check water main valve for leaks
- Check hot water heater for water leaks and rust
- Check ceilings for signs of water damage and leaks
- Run hot water to flush sediment from hot water heater
Air Conditioning & Heat (5 Tasks)
- Confirm A/C and heater are working properly
- Check A/C temperature
- Check air temperature coming from vents
- Check A/C vents for condensation leaks
- Check and replace A/C filters if needed
General (4 Tasks)
- Check for signs of mold and mildew
- Check for bugs (termites, ants, roaches, and scorpions)
- Check for rodents
- Check smoke and CO2 alarms
Appliances (6 Tasks)
- Check refrigerator and freezer temperature
- Check ice maker and clean/rotate ice when needed
- Run and lubricate garbage disposal
- Check washing machine connection for water leaks
- Check and reset clocks on appliances in case of power outage
- Short cycle the washer and dishwasher every 2 months to lubricate seals
Additional (4 Tasks)
- Check car trickle charger or battery tender
- Start vehicles and check battery
- Water any plants needed
- Check the breaker panel
Final Tasks (4 Tasks)
- Turn off water main valve (upon request)
- Turn off hot water heater valve(s) (upon request)
- Arm security system
- Send detailed home watch report to homeowner via email