‘Tis the season for winter birds to flock to warmer climates. Here’s a checklist in preparation of leaving your New York home in the winter.
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- Inform your property manager of your alternate address(es) in the event that we need to contact you.
- Opt-in to email and robocalls: If you’re community sends day-to-day or emergency communications via email or phone, we can enroll you in these additional forms of communication. Opt-in regardless to receive seasonal tips, guides, and other resources via email.
- Go paperless on your maintenance or common charge bills by signing up for E-Billing. This will allow you to receive your statements digitally while you are waiting out the New York winter at your warmer address. Note that if you decide to go paperless, you will no longer receive a paper bill.
- Ask a trusted neighbor, relative, or friend to check on your home regularly. Request that they remove any flyers or other items that are left by your front door (or. Make sure that the designated person(s) has access to the inside of your home in case of an emergency.
- Set the temperature of your home to a minimum of 70 degrees Fahrenheit, and leave the furnace running to prevent pipes from freezing during the winter. If applicable, turn off spigots and hose bibs and drain hoses if necessary. When you return to New York for the warmer months, avoid the unnecessary burden of getting greeted by a flooded home caused by a frozen pipe by taking these preventative steps.
- Forward your mail to your temporary alternate address and stop newspaper deliveries.
- Turn on your alarm systems and motion-activated lights and set interior lights on timers. This will help reduce the possibility of burglary in your absence.
- Secure valuables that you are not taking with you in a safe deposit box or another secure location.
- Install deadbolt locks, security-type hinges, and sturdy door frames that cannot be spread apart. Invest in slide locks or other equivalent security locks for sliding glass doors or french doors.
- Unplug all electrical appliances and phones (toasters, coffeemakers, etc.). Ensure that there are no lingering fire hazards before you leave for the winter.
- Make sure your smoke detectors have fresh batteries in them for when you return. Plan ahead and move the clocks forward so that you return to the correct time.
- Clean your home thoroughly, and check for potential openings in your home. Additionally, remove all food and trash to discourage pests from nesting in your absence. This includes easily forgotten places like the toaster oven tray(s).
- Don’t forget to bring your medications, sunscreen, bathing suits, and golf clubs to your alternate address!
- Make an inventory list of what you will need for when you return. Leave the list somewhere that is easy to find, or keep it in your phone for easy reference in the spring.
- Keep an eye out for updates to our Resource Page or Announcements for any general information while you are away.
- If you are enjoying your warmer address a little too much, visit our sales department for details on the sales process (co-ops).
We Hope You Have a Great Winter!
Wherever you choose to spend your winter, have a safe and warm winter! Contact our management team if you need any assistance.
