What is Home Watch?

Home Watch is a visual inspection of a home or property, looking for obvious issues. It’s not a security service or house-sitting service. Home Watch companies perform regular visual inspections of your property during your absence and will make you aware of any issues they discover, following your instructions on how to resolve them. This service adds a level of security because there’s a person in the home on a regular basis checking on things.

What services are typically included in a home watch visit?

A comprehensive home watch inspection typically includes: verifying that all doors and windows are properly secure, checking for evidence of water leaks or damage and visual signs of mold and mildew, visual inspection for signs of insects and rodents, checking that A/C is cooling and resetting thermostat settings if needed, running faucets and flushing toilets, checking the electric panel for tripped breakers, and conducting a visual inspection throughout the property including exterior areas. Professional services provide detailed inspection reports completed during each visit with immediate reporting to clients of any abnormalities found.

What should I look for when choosing a home watch company?

When selecting a home watch service, ensure they are properly credentialed and insured. National Home Watch Association Accredited Members have passed a strict vetting process that includes criminal background checks on all company principals, proper insurance coverage—both general and professional liability, proper bonding, consumer complaint checks, and adherence to the NHWA’s Code of Ethics. Many companies who advertise and claim to be properly insured are actually insured as dog walkers, pet-sitters, janitorial companies, house-sitters, security guards, and many other services that won’t protect you or your investment. Ask to see proof of appropriate insurance, background check documentation, and inquire about their procedures for protecting your privacy, alarm codes, and keys. Look for companies that provide detailed written reports and have established protocols for emergency situations.

What happens if my home watch service discovers a problem?

When a home watch professional identifies an issue during their inspection, they should immediately contact you with details and, if possible, photographic evidence. Depending on the severity and your pre-established instructions, they may also take immediate action to prevent further damage - such as shutting off water in case of a leak or contacting emergency services for urgent situations. Most professional services will coordinate with contractors or repair services on your behalf, though you typically hire and pay these vendors directly. The home watch service acts as your representative, providing access and overseeing work when you cannot be present.

How often should I have my property inspected by a home watch service?

The frequency of home watch visits depends on several factors including the length of your absence, local weather conditions, and your insurance requirements. Most professional services recommend weekly or bi-weekly visits for properties left unoccupied for extended periods. Some insurance companies require regular inspections (often weekly) to maintain coverage for vacant properties. During hurricane season or extreme weather periods, more frequent visits may be necessary. The key is maintaining enough regularity to catch problems early while meeting any insurance policy requirements you may have.

Can I customize my home watch service to meet specific needs?

Yes, reputable home watch companies typically offer customizable services tailored to your property's unique requirements and your specific concerns. Beyond standard inspections, services can include pool maintenance oversight, plant watering, mail collection, coordinating with landscapers, managing deliveries, storm preparation and recovery, and seasonal opening/closing procedures. You can also specify particular areas of focus based on your property's vulnerabilities - such as checking specific plumbing areas prone to leaks or monitoring systems that have had previous issues. Professional services work with you to create a customized checklist that addresses your property's individual needs and your peace of mind requirements.

Why should I hire a professional home watch service instead of asking friends or neighbors?

While friends and neighbors may seem like a logical choice, professional home watch services offer significant advantages. NHWA Accredited Members are bonded and insured for your protection, have background checks, and are vetted for business practices. Professional services eliminate the awkward situation of holding friends accountable if something goes wrong. What if they go away on vacation, or fall ill? What if they make a mistake and miss something…and that something leads to damage? Are you going to yell at them? Stop being friends? Sue them? Professional home watchers have the experience and judgment to handle situations with calculated responses and can act immediately when problems arise.