A successful winter departure starts with a written plan for the house, the people who can access it and the problems that need a quick response. Work through this checklist before you leave your Annapolis Valley property.
Before departure
- Ask your insurer what applies during your absence: notification, inspections, heating, water systems and evidence of visits. Obtain written clarification where needed.
- Have the heating system serviced and arrange fuel deliveries where applicable. Confirm who will respond to a loss of heat.
- Ask a qualified plumber whether the water should remain on, be isolated or be professionally winterized. The correct approach depends on the building and its systems.
- Arrange snow clearance for the entrance, driveway and any route needed by trades or fuel suppliers.
- Have gutters, drainage and visible exterior defects assessed before winter weather makes repairs difficult.
- Remove perishable food, secure outdoor items and check doors and windows.
Give your local contact a property brief
Provide the civic address, your contact details, a backup decision-maker, authorised trades and a written spending limit. Identify shutoffs and equipment safely, without expecting an unqualified visitor to repair them. Share access codes securely rather than on a public checklist.
Agree the visit plan
Record the agreed visit frequency, accessible areas, reporting method and action if a visit is delayed by unsafe roads. Set expectations for urgent findings and missed communications. Keep your insurer's requirements alongside this plan.
Before you travel
Arrange a final handover and test the contact arrangements. Cameras and sensors can provide extra information, but someone still needs authority and safe access to respond.
Official resources
Related advice
Need a local contact while you’re away?
Discuss property check-ins, seasonal monitoring or coordination of agreed work with Annapolis Royal Property Care. Confirm the scope and availability for your property.
Prepared 21 October 2026. General information for property owners; official sources and individual policy or professional advice govern specific decisions. External links are independent of ARPC.