The winter break is the perfect time to relax and recharge - but before you head home, make sure your student house or flat is ready for a few weeks without you.
1. 🔥 Schedule the Heating
It might be tempting to turn the heating off completely to save money, but don’t! Set it to come on for short periods each day. This helps prevent damp and stops pipes from freezing or bursting, which would cost you way more than a few extra pounds on your energy bill.
2. 🥫 Clear Out the Fridge and Cupboards
Nobody wants to return to a bad-smelling home! Throw away any out-of-date food and take the rubbish out.
3. 📵 Avoid Publicising Your Absence on Social Media
You never know who’s watching, and advertising an empty house isn’t the safest move.
4. 🔌 Unplug and Switch Off
Turn off appliances at the wall to save energy and reduce fire risk - except for the fridge/freezer, of course!
5. 🏠 Make the Place Look Lived-In
Hide clothes airers and put away dishes. Leave curtains and blinds open, use timer switches for lights in the evening if possible, and make sure you don't leave your bins out on the pavement.
6. 💻 Take Valuables With You
If you can, take laptops, consoles, and other expensive items home. Anything you leave behind should be stored securely or hidden out of sight.
7. 📞 Let the Landlord Know You’re Away
You should inform the landlord or letting agent if everyone is leaving for the Christmas break. Let them know when the last person is leaving and when you expect someone will return. This may be a term in your contract, but, even if it isn't it's good practice to let them know the house is empty so they can keep an eye on it.
8. 📝 Check With Your Landlord About the Water Supply
Some landlords expect you to turn off the water supply if you’re away for a while. If you’re not sure how, ask them before you leave.
9. 🧹 Tidy Up Before You Go
Clean up your space and clear the garden if you have one. Coming back to a messy house after a relaxing break is never fun!
10. ✅ Do a Final Walk-Through
Before you leave, check that everything is unplugged, locked (windows as well as doors), and secure. A quick checklist can help you tick off the essentials and avoid that “Did I lock the back door?” panic halfway down the motorway.
✨ Enjoy your break and come back to a stress-free start to the new term!