If your home sits empty for weeks or months — a vacation home, a seasonal residence, a family property — this guide explains everything: what home watch is, what it should cost, and how to choose someone you can genuinely trust.
A pinhole leak in a supply line can run for weeks unnoticed. By the time anyone sees it, you're facing mold remediation, floor replacement, and an insurance battle — instead of a $12 fitting.
Many policies contain unoccupancy clauses that reduce or void coverage if a home goes unchecked. Documented professional inspections protect both the house and the policy.
When severe weather hits your home's region, someone needs to secure the property before, and assess it after. From a thousand miles away, you can't.
Home watch done well isn't a neighbor glancing at your driveway. It's a documented, professional inspection — inside and out — on a reliable schedule, with a report you can actually read.
"Your home is in excellent condition. All systems are operating normally — HVAC holding at 62°, water heater clear, no signs of moisture anywhere. We noticed the garage door sensor is intermittent and recommend replacement (~$85). Photos attached. We'll be back Thursday."
This is what reports look like from HomeWatchOS-powered companies
Prices vary by market, home size, and visit frequency — but these ranges hold across most of the US.
One-off or occasional inspections. Higher for large homes or extensive checklists.
Weekly or biweekly scheduled visits. The most common arrangement — predictable for you, thorough for the home.
Twice-weekly visits, concierge services, pre-arrival preparation, estate coordination.
⚠ Be cautious of prices dramatically below these ranges. Insurance, training, and time cost real money — corners get cut somewhere.
General liability and professional liability at minimum. Ask for certificates — a professional will offer before you ask.
The report is the product. If it's a text message that says "all good," keep looking. You want photos, checklist items, and a clear written summary.
A real company has a documented checklist adapted to your home — pool equipment, HVAC, water heater, seasonal items.
The right answer: "We document it, notify you immediately, get quotes, and nothing happens without your approval."
Background-checked employees, not day-labor subcontractors. Ask if the same person visits consistently.
Pre-storm preparation and post-storm assessment should have a defined protocol, especially in hurricane and freeze-prone regions.
References from homeowners with homes like yours. Online reviews help, but a conversation tells you more.
Browse verified home watch professionals in our directory. Every listed company is committed to documented visits, clear reports, and your approval on every decision.