How to Keep Your Empty Vancouver Home Safe During Winter Travel

Winter is a popular time for Vancouver homeowners to travel. Whether you’re escaping the rain, visiting family, or working remotely somewhere warmer, leaving your home empty during the winter months comes with real risks—especially in our climate. In winter home safety Vancouver is a big issue.

From frozen pipes to break-ins and insurance issues, an unattended home can quickly turn into a costly problem if it’s not properly prepared. As realtors who work closely with homeowners across Vancouver, we’ve seen how a little planning can prevent major headaches.

Here’s a practical guide to winter home safety in Vancouver, so you can travel with peace of mind knowing your property is protected.

Why Winter Home Safety Matters in Vancouver

Vancouver winters may not bring extreme cold like other parts of Canada, but our combination of damp weather, fluctuating temperatures, and long periods of rainfall can be just as damaging. Homes left unattended are more vulnerable to water damage, heating failures, and security issues.

Insurance companies also take winter vacancies seriously. If a problem occurs while you’re away and you haven’t met your policy requirements, a claim could be denied. That’s why preparing your home before you leave isn’t just smart—it’s essential.

Prevent Frozen Pipes and Water Damage

Frozen or burst pipes are one of the most expensive winter issues homeowners face, even in Vancouver.

Before you leave, make sure your home stays heated. Never turn the heat off completely. Set your thermostat to a consistent low temperature to keep pipes from freezing, especially in basements, crawl spaces, and exterior walls.

It’s also wise to shut off the main water supply if you’ll be away for an extended period. Drain outdoor hoses and irrigation systems, and insulate exposed pipes if needed. Even small steps can prevent major damage.

This is a key part of preparing your home for vacation, especially during winter.

Secure Your Home Without Making It Look Empty

An empty home can be an easy target if it looks unoccupied. The goal is to make your property appear lived-in, even while you’re away.

Smart lighting is one of the simplest and most effective tools. Use timers or smart bulbs to turn lights on and off in the evenings. Exterior motion lights are also helpful for deterring unwanted visitors.

Make sure all doors and windows are locked, including garage doors and patio sliders. If you have an alarm system, test it before you leave and notify your monitoring company of your travel plans.

Avoid leaving packages, flyers, or mail visible. Ask a neighbour or friend to collect mail regularly, or place a temporary hold with Canada Post.

Ask Someone Local to Check on the Property

Most insurance policies in British Columbia require that someone physically check your home if it’s vacant for more than a certain number of days—often every 48 to 72 hours.

This could be a trusted neighbour, family member, friend, or professional house sitter. Ask them to:

• Walk through the home

• Check for leaks or unusual smells

• Ensure heat and power are working

• Look for signs of forced entry

Having a local contact is one of the most important steps in Vancouver property care during winter travel.

Review Your Home Insurance Before You Go

One of the most overlooked steps is confirming insurance coverage. Before leaving Vancouver, call your insurance provider and ask:

• How long can my home be vacant?

• How often must someone check it?

• Do I need to notify you of my travel dates?

• Are there specific winter requirements I must follow?

Failing to follow these rules can result in denied claims—even if the damage wasn’t your fault.

Prepare the Interior for Long Absences

Inside your home, small details matter. Unplug non-essential electronics to reduce fire risk. Clean out the fridge and pantry to avoid pests or odours. Dispose of garbage before you leave.

If you have plants, arrange for someone to water them—or move them to one area with automatic watering. Consider shutting off unnecessary water sources like laundry hookups if possible.

These small steps make returning home easier and prevent unpleasant surprises.

Protect the Exterior and Outdoor Areas

Vancouver’s winter weather puts a lot of stress on a home’s exterior. Clear gutters and drains so rainwater flows away from the house. Trim overhanging branches that could fall during storms.

If you have a yard, arrange for basic maintenance so the property doesn’t look neglected. Snow isn’t always an issue here, but fallen leaves and standing water can still cause problems.

Should You Rent or Leave Your Home Empty?

Some homeowners choose to rent out their home while they travel, while others prefer to leave it empty and monitored. Both options can work—but they come with different responsibilities and legal considerations.

If you’re thinking about renting, it’s important to understand Vancouver’s rental rules and strata bylaws before making a decision. Our team often helps clients weigh these options based on their home type, travel duration, and comfort level.

Final Thoughts: Travel With Confidence

Leaving your Vancouver home empty during winter doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right preparation, clear insurance coverage, and a trusted local contact, you can protect your investment and enjoy your time away.

At the Ruth & David Group, we help homeowners think beyond buying and selling. Whether you’re planning winter travel, exploring rental options, or simply want advice on protecting your property, we’re here as a local resource you can trust.

If you have questions about winter home safety in Vancouver or want personalized advice for your property, don’t hesitate to reach out.