As the warmer months approach and seasonal residents of Southwest Florida consider returning north, ensuring that your home is well-prepared for your absence is crucial. Southwest Florida, encompassing Lee County areas like Estero, Ft. Myers, Bonita Springs, and Sanibel Island, is known for its beautiful landscapes, warm climate, and, importantly, its susceptibility to hurricanes during the summer months.

Preparing your home for seasonal changes and potential hurricanes is essential for maintaining its integrity, safety, and value. This is where Jumpp To It, your local home services expert in Lee County, Florida, becomes an indispensable partner in caring for your home year-round. Here’s a comprehensive checklist to prepare your Southwest Florida home for the summer season and ensure ongoing maintenance even while you’re away.

Regular Maintenance All Year Round

Air Conditioning System: Regular servicing of your AC unit is vital to ensure it runs efficiently, especially during the hot and humid months. Change filters, clean ducts, and check for any needed repairs before you leave. Jumpp To It can arrange for regular checks to prevent mold growth and air quality issues in your absence.

Plumbing Checks: Inspect your home for leaks and address any issues immediately. It’s advisable to shut off the main water supply if you’ll be gone for an extended period to prevent leaks or flooding. Jumpp To It offers plumbing inspections to identify and fix any potential problems before they escalate.

Pest Control: The warm climate of Southwest Florida is inviting to pests. Regular pest control treatments are essential to keep them at bay, especially before leaving your home unattended. Consider a year-round pest control plan with Jumpp To It to protect your home from common pests like ants, termites, and rodents.

 Preparing for the Summer Season

Gutters and Drains: Clear gutters, downspouts, and drains to ensure proper water flow during heavy rains. This prevents water damage and the accumulation of standing water, which can attract pests.

Landscaping and Trees: Trim trees and shrubs away from your home to reduce the risk of damage during storms. Jumpp To It’s landscaping services can help maintain your property’s appearance and safety by managing vegetation and ensuring it is hurricane-ready.

Secure Outdoor Furniture: Store or securely fasten outdoor furniture and decorations to prevent them from becoming projectiles in high winds.

Hurricane Preparations for Absent Owners

Hurricane Shutters: If your home is equipped with hurricane shutters, ensure they are in working order before you leave. If you are unable to install them yourself when a hurricane is imminent, Jumpp To It can manage this task, offering peace of mind that your property is protected.

Emergency Contacts: Update your emergency contact list and share it with Jumpp To It. This should include local authorities, utility companies, and your home watch service. Having a local expert like Jumpp To It as your point of contact can be invaluable in managing any issues that arise during your absence.

Home Watch Services: Enlist a professional home watch service like Jumpp To It to regularly check on your property. They can perform inspections, execute your hurricane plan if needed, and address any emergencies that may occur, ensuring your home remains secure and well-maintained year-round.

Additional Tips for Absent Homeowners

• Insurance Check-Up: Ensure your homeowner’s insurance is up-to-date and covers common risks in Southwest Florida, including flood and hurricane damage.
• Security Systems: Check that your alarm systems and smoke detectors are functioning correctly. Consider smart home systems that allow you to monitor your home remotely.
• Mail and Package Delivery: Arrange for mail forwarding or hold services to prevent an accumulation of mail, which can be a sign that the home is unoccupied. Alternatively, Jump To It can manage this, ensuring your home appears lived-in and reducing burglary risks.

The Bottom Line

By following this seasonal home maintenance checklist and partnering with Jump To It for ongoing care, you can enjoy your time up north without worrying about your Southwest Florida home. Regular maintenance not only keeps your property in top condition but also greatly reduces the risk of damage during the summer months, particularly from hurricanes.

Jumpp To It’s comprehensive home services and hurricane preparation plans offer a seamless solution for homeowners seeking peace of mind while they’re away. Remember, proactive and preventative maintenance is key to safeguarding your investment and ensuring your Southwest Florida home remains a haven for years to come.

How can we help you? For questions and additional information, please call us at 239-992-2052.