Friday, October 05, 2018

By John Voket You likely have heard of services that come in and take care of a pet while the homeowner is away. But what about keeping an eye on the entire property?

That's where a home watching service comes in, and they are becoming a prolific business, which calls for some heightened awareness on the part of the consumer.

Well-meaning neighbors and friends may be happy to check on things while you're away, but a home watching service does a lot more than bring in your mail.

For example, Gambel Home Services (GHS) in Johns Island, SC, follows a 60-point checklist of services and is a good way to compare services you might be seeking. Below is a short overview of the items they inspect, every time they visit a home:

- Exterior for signs of damage, wear and tear, and animal/pest intrusions

- Landscaping, exterior lighting and patio/porch areas to ensure everything is in its right place and working correctly

- Signs of wood rot on the house

- Length of trees to ensure they are trimmed away from the house

- Paint condition

- Proper coverage of pine straw

- The interior of your home, paying special attention to ensure your appliances, HVAC units and water heater are in good condition

- All your lights are tested and bulbs replaced if needed

- The attic, garage and crawl spaces get thorough inspections

- No leaks in the house, especially in the attic and around windows

- Testing of your alarm systems

- Ensure the property is properly locked and secured

Some home watch professionals also offer pre-arrival home preparations and cleanings, post-departure home cleanings and closings, triggered alarm response, hurricane and flooding notifications, storm preparations and post-storm response.

If you do decide to contract a home watch service, consider one that is accredited through the National Home Watch Association (NHWA), which sets standards and provides accreditation for home watch services in the U.S. and Canada.

NHWA members have been carefully screened, references have been checked and insurance, bonding and licenses (if applicable) have been verified.

Each member pledges to abide by the association's Code of Ethics and standards. Membership in the NHWA can be verified by visiting: nationalhomewatchassociation.org/find-an-accredited-nhwa-member/

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