Updated: July 27, 2025
Florida Getaway? Schedule A Pre-Vacation Home Inspection First
Nothing ruins post-vacation bliss faster than coming home to a flooded kitchen or a pest-infested attic. In Florida—where pop-up storms, year-round humidity, and curious critters are the norm—a quick pre-vacation home inspection is the smartest item on your travel checklist. Here’s why it matters and what to cover before you lock the door.
Why Inspect Before You Leave The Sunshine State?
1 | Storm-Ready Roof & Windows
Thunderstorms can strike any afternoon, even outside hurricane season. An inspection spots loose shingles, cracked flashing, or aging window seals that heavy rain can exploit.
2 | Prevent Hidden Water Damage
High humidity accelerates mold growth, especially if a slow leak goes unnoticed. Inspect under sinks, around the water heater, and in attic spaces; shut off the main valve if you’ll be gone a week or more.
3 | Reduce Electrical & Surge Risk
Florida is the lightning capital of the U.S. A licensed inspector checks your panel for hot spots, confirms GFCI outlets trip properly, and verifies smoke/CO detectors are up to date. Unplug non-essential electronics or add whole-home surge protection.
4 | Guard Against Pests Year-Round
Termites, palmetto bugs, and rodents love an empty, damp house. Sealing foundation gaps, securing soffit vents, and removing food waste make your home far less inviting.
5 | Protect Your Insurance Claim
Some policies place limits on losses that occur while a house is vacant—especially if preventative steps were ignored. A dated inspection report documents that you acted responsibly.
Florida-Focused Pre-Vacation Checklist
- Roof & Exterior: Look for missing shingles, lifted flashing, clogged gutters, and pooling water around the slab.
- Doors & Windows: Reseal any cracks; install dowel rods or deadbolts for added security.
- Plumbing: Check supply lines, A/C condensate drains, and outdoor spigots; insulate exposed pipes.
- HVAC: Change the filter, clean the drain line, and set the thermostat to 78 °F with the fan on “auto” to manage humidity.
- Electrical: Test breakers, GFCIs, smoke alarms, and CO detectors; unplug TVs, toasters, and chargers.
- Food & Trash: Empty the fridge of perishables, run the garbage disposal, and take out all trash.
- Neighborhood Watch: Ask a trusted neighbor to walk around after storms or arrange a professional house-sitter.
Pro Tip: Prefer turnkey peace of mind? Book a licensed Florida home inspector for a rapid “vacation readiness” visit. The cost is small; the savings can be huge.
Smart Tech For Sunshine-State Travelers
- Smart leak detectors under sinks and A/C units text you at the first drip.
- Smart thermostats balance temperature and humidity while saving energy.
- Video doorbells & smart locks let you grant access to service pros or neighbors remotely.
- Smart plugs & lighting scenes make your home look occupied and deter break-ins.
Need Peace Of Mind Before You Go? Know Someone Who Does? We’re Just A Call Away.
Your vacation shouldn’t start with anxiety—or end with unexpected repairs. Whether you’re heading out of town, buying a new home, selling your current one, or simply want to check up on your Florida property, a professional home inspection is the key to peace of mind.
At Priority Home Inspections, we specialize in thorough, reliable home inspections across Melbourne, FL, and surrounding areas. Our licensed inspectors know exactly what to look for—from roof vulnerabilities and plumbing leaks to pest entry points and electrical hazards—especially in Florida’s unique climate.
📞 Call (321) 368-9921 or Click here to schedule your pre-vacation or full home inspection today.
We’ll help protect your investment—so you can enjoy your trip worry-free and return to a safe, sound home.