A vacant home may appear quiet and secure, but without regular activity inside the property, small problems can go unnoticed and quickly become costly emergencies. A slow plumbing leak, failed sump pump, loss of heat, or severe storm can cause significant damage before anyone realizes something is wrong.

Although real estate agents are not responsible for maintaining a vacant property, they can help sellers understand the risks and encourage them to create a plan while the home is listed. These six precautions can help protect the property - and the transaction.

Turning off utilities may reduce monthly expenses, but it can also leave a property vulnerable. Electricity may be needed to operate the sump pump, security system, dehumidifier, and heating or cooling equipment.

During colder months, maintaining adequate heat is especially important. Frozen pipes can burst and release hundreds of gallons of water before the damage is discovered. Property owners should also confirm that all utilities will remain active through closing unless a qualified professional recommends otherwise.

Before leaving a home vacant, owners should check faucets, toilets, appliance connections, water heaters, and exposed pipes for signs of leakage or deterioration. Washing machine supply lines, refrigerator water lines, and connections beneath sinks are common areas of concern.

For properties that will remain vacant for an extended period, a licensed plumber can recommend whether the water supply should be shut off or the plumbing system winterized. The appropriate choice will depend on the home, season, and equipment that requires water to operate.

A functioning sump pump can be the difference between a dry basement and a major water loss. The pump should be tested regularly, and the discharge line should be checked for clogs, freezing, or improper drainage.

Homes with a history of groundwater intrusion may benefit from a battery backup or secondary sump pump. These systems can provide additional protection during power outages and severe storms, two times when sump pumps are often needed most.

Extreme temperatures and excess humidity can damage flooring, cabinetry, drywall, and personal property. High humidity may also create conditions that support microbial growth, particularly in basements and other poorly ventilated spaces.

Owners should maintain a reasonable indoor temperature and monitor humidity when necessary. Smart thermostats, water sensors, and humidity monitors can provide remote alerts when conditions change unexpectedly.

Technology is helpful, but it should not completely replace in-person inspections. A trusted individual should visit the property regularly to look for water stains, unusual odors, standing water, temperature changes, broken windows, roof damage, or signs of unauthorized entry.

After heavy rain, strong winds, freezing temperatures, or a power outage, an additional inspection may be appropriate. Discovering damage early often reduces the extent of the repairs needed.

Standard homeowners’ insurance policies may contain special requirements or exclusions when a property is vacant for a certain period. Sellers should notify their insurance agent when a home becomes unoccupied and confirm what coverage and precautions are required.

They should also document property checks and retain records of maintenance, inspections, and repairs. If a loss occurs, this information may be valuable during the insurance claim process.

A vacant listing does not have to become a vulnerable listing. By encouraging sellers to plan ahead, monitor the property, and respond quickly to warning signs, real estate professionals can help reduce preventable damage, protect their clients’ investment, and keep the path to closing as smooth as possible.

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