Vacancy is not a neutral state
A house in which no one lives still "works": water sits in pipes, seals age, washing-machine hoses fail, air conditioning condenses, pests look for shelter. After only a few weeks of vacancy small defects can grow into big damages – without anyone noticing.
The main risks at a glance
- Water damage from faulty hoses, leaking boilers or blocked drains
- Break-ins and vandalism, especially in urbanisations with many empty houses off-season
- Storm damage to awnings, roofs, pool covers and outdoor furniture
- Mould and moisture from a lack of ventilation, particularly near the coast
- Pest infestation – rats, martens, insects, termites
- Overflowing mailboxes as a visible signal to burglars
- Failed pool pumps leading to algae and costly cleaning
Insurance: what many owners overlook
The conditions of many buildings and contents policies for Spain include a so-called vacancy clause: if the home is not inhabited or demonstrably inspected for more than 30, 60 or 90 consecutive days, the insurer may reduce or refuse payment.
A documented house-sitting record – with date, photos and concrete observations – is valuable evidence in case of a claim that you have met your duty of care.
How often should you inspect?
- At least monthly – as basic protection for any holiday home
- Every two weeks – recommended for villas with pool and garden
- Weekly – useful during longer absences, before rentals or in storm season
- Additionally after severe weather – storm inspection within 24 hours
What professional house sitting provides
A reputable house-sitting service on the Costa Blanca carries out regular inspections, documents every visit with photos, reacts within hours in an emergency and coordinates local tradespeople. That way your home stays between stays in the condition you left it.
More about our services on site: Jávea, Moraira, Benissa, Gata de Gorgos.