When you are far from your home, the biggest challenge is not being able to see what is happening there. A small water leak, a pool turning green or a neglected garden can go unnoticed for months. This list puts what needs checking, and how often, into a clear routine for a house you manage from a distance.
Things to check once a month
- Water meter. If the meter moves while nobody is in the house, there is a leak. Photographing the meter on the same day each month makes comparison easy.
- Damp and mould. Look for stains or smells on walls and ceilings, in bathrooms and inside wardrobes.
- Plumbing and fittings. Is anything dripping under taps, at traps or at connections?
- Electricity and appliances. Are the fridge, air conditioning and alarm system working?
- Pool. Water colour, level, pump and filter. For details, see the pool maintenance page.
- Garden. Irrigation system, tree branches, and dry, flammable plant waste.
- Post and official notices. Post piling up is a sign that the house is empty.
Opening and closing for the season
If you don't use the house for most of the year, a more thorough check is needed at the start and end of the season. Opening involves airing the house, cleaning, checking water and plumbing, starting up the pool and servicing the air conditioning. Closing covers the main stopcock, electricity, damp prevention and security. For winter preparation, see the winterising an empty house guide.
Paperwork, utilities and bills
- Paying water, electricity and gas bills by direct debit (automatic payment) lowers the risk of being cut off.
- Keep track of your complex's service charges (aidat) and any shared costs you owe.
- Put the expiry dates of your compulsory earthquake insurance (DASK) and home insurance policies in a calendar.
- Keep digital copies of important documents about the house (the title deed or tapu, utility contracts, warranty documents) in one place.
Keys and contacts
- Keep a written record of who holds your key. A signed handover note each time the keys change hands protects both sides.
- Prepare a list of people to call in an emergency: a local contact person, your complex's management, your insurer, a plumber and an electrician.
- Tell whoever will deal with a problem, in advance, that they must get your approval before doing any work. This way you avoid unexpected costs.
What should happen when something goes wrong?
When managing from a distance, speed and clarity matter most. The person who first notices the problem should take photos and inform you, and work should be done only after you approve it. Written, dated photos help both with insurance claims and with any disagreement with a tradesman.
Frequently asked questions
How often is a check needed? While the house is empty, a monthly visit is a reasonable balance for most risks. In the wet winter months and in houses with a pool, more frequent checks can be considered.
Is it risky to rent out the house while you are away? A check visit before guests arrive and after they leave helps you spot damage early and have the house ready for the next guest. For the terms of renting, check your contract and insurance conditions.
Why do photo records matter? Dated photos build a record of the condition of the house over time. If damage occurs, they give you a concrete reference in any discussion with an insurer or tradesman.
Making checks a routine
You or a relative you trust can work through this list yourselves. But if you want regular, recorded checks, the Home Care Plan offers a monthly visit, a checklist and a photo report. That way you see the condition of the house every month and can get the first repairs done in time if something goes wrong.
This guide is for general information. Every home is different; for your own home, ask a company that has seen the work on site for a written quotation.