Many retirees and seasonal residents now maintain multiple homes—escaping cold winters, visiting family, or enjoying a change of scenery. In Naples, Bonita Springs, and Marco Island alone, nearly 66% of residents are seasonal, often gone for six months at a time.
Whether it’s the beaches of Florida or mountain and lake retreats elsewhere, more people have the means to live their dream lifestyle. But with that freedom comes responsibility—leaving a home vacant for months carries risks.
An Empty House is a Vulnerable Home. Naples Property Home Watch LLC., Where TRUST MEETS PEACE OF MIND!
Why Home Watch is Essential
When you’re away, problems like water leaks, HVAC failures, pests, and storms can escalate quickly. In Southwest Florida, humidity averages over 70%—well above the 55% threshold where mold begins. HVAC issues left unchecked often lead to mold, while water leaks cause major damage.
Insurance companies are increasingly strict, often denying claims if more than 30 days pass before a problem is reported, and requiring proof that steps were taken to address it. Some condos even mandate professional home checks if residents are gone for more than 10 days, since damage can spread to neighboring units.
What’s Checked in a Home Watch Visit
Home Watch is a visual inspection of a property to catch obvious problems. A professional visit typically includes:
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Inspecting for water damage, leaks, and mold
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Running faucets and toilets to keep seals fresh
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Checking A/C systems, humidity, and condensate lines
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Verifying appliances and circuit breakers
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Monitoring for pests
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Inspecting exterior areas, pools, and landscaping
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Collecting mail and removing solicitations
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Checking vehicles stored long-term
Each visit produces a detailed report for peace of mind.
How Often Should Visits Occur?
Issues can arise quickly. In one summer, Halo Home Watch found issues in 9% of 700 visits—most in single-family homes. Weekly or bi-weekly checks are recommended; monthly visits are too risky and can jeopardize insurance coverage.
Is Home Watch Regulated?
No—Home Watch is still an unregulated industry. That makes it vital to vet providers carefully. A reputable company should have:
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Certificate of Insurance
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Local Business License
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Honesty Bond
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Professional website, reviews, and business phone
Always request their inspection checklist to understand what’s covered.
Costs and Services
Pricing usually depends on:
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Home type (single-family, condo, villa)
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Square footage
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Number of water sources
Additional factors include A/C units, breakers, refrigerators, and pool areas. Many companies also offer extra services, such as:
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Battery or filter replacement
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Auto-starting vehicles
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Weed removal
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Condensate line cleaning
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Lightbulb changes
Some companies also provide concierge, handyman, or pressure washing services, and in Florida, storm season services for hurricane readiness.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a year-round resident or spend part of the year elsewhere, protecting your home is essential to maintaining its value and safety. By understanding where your home is most vulnerable and taking proactive steps, you can prevent costly and stressful damage.
If you need a trusted home watch or concierge service in Naples, Naples Property Home Watch LLC., is here to help keep your property safe, maintained, and ready for you anytime.
