For luxury homeowners in South Florida, summer often means extended time away—whether for international travel, seasonal relocation, or time spent at a second home. But before leaving your residence unoccupied, it’s critical to prepare your property to withstand Florida’s heat, humidity, and unpredictable weather.
High-value homes and large properties require more than a quick once-over. From protecting your home’s systems to safeguarding against water damage and maintaining the landscape, proper planning is key to avoiding costly surprises during your absence.
At Island Home & Estate Management, we specialize in supporting discerning homeowners with the ongoing care and property management of their residences. Below is a carefully considered summer home preparation checklist to guide you through securing and maintaining your property while you're away.
Begin with a comprehensive review of your home—interior and exterior. Look for signs of leaks, potential flood risks, or aging infrastructure that may become problematic in your absence. Pay special attention to areas near plumbing fixtures, water heaters, and roofing seams. Engaging a trusted luxury property management firm to perform regular inspections during your time away can help identify issues early and preserve the integrity of your home.
Maintaining a consistent indoor temperature and proper ventilation is essential in South Florida’s humid climate. Set your smart thermostat to prevent excess moisture buildup, protect finishes, and discourage mold growth. Prior to leaving, schedule a professional air conditioning service to ensure the system is functioning efficiently. Homes with extensive square footage or custom systems often require tailored programming and system calibration, in addition to monitoring from a professional luxury property management.
Ensure that all doors, windows, gates, and access points are secure and in proper working condition. Consider enhanced security measures such as smart locks, exterior lighting, or integrated surveillance systems. Large estates with expansive grounds often require additional attention to perimeter security—something a professional estate care team can monitor regularly during your absence.
South Florida’s summer season often brings heavy rains and storms. Shut off water lines where appropriate, or install leak detection systems to minimize risk. Review your insurance coverage for potential storm-related claims and have an emergency response plan in place. If your home includes a basement, wine cellar, or other sensitive areas, added protections may be warranted.
A well-maintained exterior creates the appearance of an occupied home and protects your long-term investment. Arrange for consistent lawn, landscape, and garden maintenance throughout your absence. Oversight should include irrigation checks to prevent overwatering or dead zones, trimming of high-risk trees or branches, and inspection of hardscaping for signs of shifting or cracking due to heat or shifting soil.
Unplug non-essential appliances to minimize electrical load and reduce fire risk. Clean out the refrigerator and freezer to prevent spoilage. Consider emptying dishwashers and washing machines as well. Luxury estates often feature multiple kitchens, guest suites, and outdoor cooking spaces—all of which should be reviewed for shut-off procedures and safety.
Suspend unnecessary deliveries, forward essential mail, and notify your estate management partner of any correspondence that may need attention. Ensure someone local has access to critical documents, vendor contacts, and emergency information should the need arise.
If you’ve scheduled any renovation, construction, or maintenance projects during your absence, ensure the work is overseen by someone who understands your expectations. This may include upgrades to interiors, plant installations, system replacements, or aesthetic updates. A reputable property management company can serve as your on-site representative—protecting your asset and ensuring contractors adhere to budget, timeline, and design intent.
The most important step in safeguarding your home is enlisting professional oversight. Regular check-ins, photo-documented visits, maintenance coordination, and real-time communication give you confidence and control, even from afar. Estate homes are complex, and a proactive management strategy is essential to avoid small issues escalating into costly repairs.
At Island Home & Estate Management, we support homeowners across South Florida with full-service property oversight during seasonal absences. From high-touch concierge services and housekeeping to detailed inspections and emergency response, our team is equipped to handle every aspect of luxury home care. We place customer service and the care of your property above everything else.Contact us today to learn how we can protect your property, maintain your lifestyle, and give you peace of mind—no matter where summer takes you.
Island Home & Estate Management has a best-in-class team of professionals dedicated to exceeding your expectations. Each is skilled in their area of expertise and committed to the quality of their work. You can trust us to bring unmatched attention to detail and exceptional quality to projects and tasks of any size. Let us handle the details.