The Complete Home Watch Checklist: What a Professional Inspects Every Visit

What Belongs on a Home Watch Checklist

A thorough home watch visit follows a consistent inspection routine so nothing is missed. Whether you are vetting a provider or just want to understand what you are paying for, this home watch services checklist covers what a professional home watcher should inspect on every single visit — inside and out — and document with photos in your report.

Exterior Inspection Checklist

• Roof and gutters — visible damage, missing shingles, debris, or sagging gutters
• Doors and windows — all secure, no signs of forced entry or damage
• Exterior walls and foundation — cracks, staining, or signs of settling
• Landscaping and irrigation — overgrowth, dead plants, or visible leaks
• Pool and spa — water level, clarity, and equipment operation (if applicable)
• Driveway and walkways — accumulation of mail, flyers, or packages signaling vacancy
• Outdoor furniture and equipment — secured and accounted for, especially before storms
• Signs of storm damage — after any significant weather event

Interior Inspection Checklist

• Water intrusion — ceilings, walls, under sinks, around toilets, water heater, and washer connections
• HVAC system — running normally, thermostat holding the set temperature, no unusual smells
• Humidity and mold — especially critical in humid and coastal climates
• Plumbing — running faucets, flushing toilets, and checking for leaks or slow drains
• Appliances and refrigerator — powered and functioning; no spoiled food odors
• Pest and rodent activity — droppings, nests, or insect intrusion
• Electrical — breaker panel, no tripped circuits, GFCI outlets if relevant
• Security — alarm armed, smoke and CO detectors functional, all entry points locked
• General condition — any change since the last visit, documented with photos

What to Expect in Your Visit Report

After each visit, a professional home watcher should send a written report that includes the date and time of the visit, timestamped photos, notes on anything out of the ordinary, and recommended actions if an issue was found. This documentation is also valuable for insurance — many policies require proof of regular inspection for vacant homes.

What to Leave Your Home Watcher Before You Travel

• Key or lockbox/alarm codes and entry instructions
• Emergency contacts — a neighbor, plumber, HVAC technician, and pest control
• Utility account numbers and your homeowners insurance policy number
• Your destination address and the best phone number to reach you
• A list of any known quirks or existing issues with the home
• Your preferences for storm preparation and post-storm inspection

Find a Home Watch Professional

Use this checklist to compare providers and ask the right questions. Browse verified, insured home watch companies near you on HomeWatcherList — search by city or state, read reviews, and contact a home watcher directly.