The Home Watch Checklist and What to Expect During a Visit

Your Northern Virginia Home Watch service provides regular property inspections while you, the homeowners, are away, ensuring everything in and around your home remains secure and in good condition. During each visit, the Home Watch inspector follows a detailed checklist covering both the interior and exterior of your home. This proactive approach helps catch issues early to prevent small problems from turning into costly repairs. In this post, we’ll talk about what you can expect from a typical Home Watch visit.

Exterior Inspection

Visual Property Check

The first step of a Home Watch visit is a comprehensive visual inspection. Landscaping is reviewed for signs of overgrowth or damage. Siding, windows and the roof are examined for any visible damage such as cracked siding, broken windows or missing or damage shingles.

Vandalism or Trespassing Checks

Your Home Watch professional checks for signs of vandalism or trespassing such as tampered locks, broken gates or forced signs of entry. Ensuring that all gates, doors and windows are secure is vital to maintain your property’s safety. Any signs of unauthorized access will be reported immediately to both you and the local authorities.

Outdoor Utilities and Features

The inspection also includes checking things like exterior lighting, sprinklers, outdoor faucets and pool equipment. Malfunctions could lead to unsafe conditions or water damage.

Interior Inspection

Entry Checks

Once inside, your Home Watch professional conducts a security check of all doors and windows, and locks and alarms are tested to confirm they are working correctly.

HVAC and Electrical System Checks

Your home’s heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems are tested to verify proper function. Ensuring that your home remains at a stable temperature can prevent damage to your interior finishes and furniture. Lights and appliances are checked, and the breaker panel is inspected for signs of electrical issues.

Plumbing System Check

Key areas such as bathrooms, kitchens and utility rooms are check for signs of leaks or standing water. Running the faucets and flushing toilets help prevent stagnation, and drains are tested for ensure proper water flow.

Pest Control and Infestation Checks

Signs of Pests

A thorough pest control check is performed to detect any indication of rodent or inset activity. Your Home Watch professional will look for droppings, nests or other signs inside or outside your home.

Mold or Mildew

Moisture levels are tested to ensure they are under control. And in areas prone to moisture, such as basements and bathrooms, your Home Watch professional will look for mold or mildew. If any is detected, prompt treatment can be arranged to prevent long-term damage or unhealthy conditions.

Safety and Security Systems Checks

Testing Alarms and Cameras

Your home’s security systems, including alarms and security cameras, are tested.

Fire Safety Check

Your Home Watch professional will test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to ensure they are working. Fire extinguishers are checked for expiration and accessibility.

Mail and Deliveries

During the visit, mail and packages can be collected to prevent theft or an accumulation that could signal your absence. Important items can be forwarded.

Detailed Reporting

Inspection Overview

Following each visit, you will receive a detailed report that includes a summary of the findings, along with photographs or video evidence of any issues discovered during the visit.

Recommendations for Maintenance or Repair

If any problems are found, recommendations for maintenance or repairs are provided. If needed, your Home Watch professional can coordinate with repair professionals on your behalf to address issues promptly.

Concierge Services and Security Assessments

Northern Virginia homeowners often have special requests for their Home Watch professional, such as, but not limited to, the following. To accommodate your unique needs, concierge services and security assessments can be added to our standard checklist.

Pre-arrival preparation
Vehicle maintenance
Vendor coordination for repairs or maintenance
Package handling
Storm preparation or response
Security recommendations
Pet care coordination

A Home Watch service provides more than just a quick look around your property. Each visit follows a comprehensive checklist designed to address potential problems before they escalate. By focusing on key areas like security, utilities and maintenance, your Home Watch professional ensures your property remains safe and well maintained, even when you’re not there.

“In addition to the services we’ve listed above, we use our senses of sight, sound and smell, along with special technology and tools like hygrometers, moisture meters, laser thermometers, flashlights and more to thoroughly inspect every part of your home,” explains Dan Lender, founder and owner of Golden Rule Home Watch & Concierge. “And we spent years developing a thorough and proprietary checklist, service offerings, and reputation that help us protect your home.”

The Golden Rule Home Watch Checklist, Covering Northern Virginia Homes

Golden Rule Home Watch & Concierge is the ultimate choice for Home Watch services in Northern Virginia because of our commitment to safeguarding your property while you’re away. We follow a thorough inspection process with a proactive approach to give you peace of mind that your home is being monitored closely.

In addition, Golden Rule Home Watch offers reliable communication that ensures that you are always kept informed about your property’s condition. Our professionalism and responsiveness make us a trusted partner for homeowners who need dependable care for their homes during extended absences.

Contact Golden Rule Home Watch

For more information, please contact Golden Rule Home Watch at 855-928-2424. We are a leading member of the National Home Watch Association.