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Five Essential Things to Do Before Going on Holiday

12 Dec 2017 living tips

Electrical System This involves checking wiring and all electrical appliances. If they are not functioning properly, have them repaired immediately or refrain from using them until they have been fixed. Unplug all electrical appliances and extension cords and put any electrical wires higher up in case of flooding. The main electrical breaker should be shut off to avoid electrical short circuits while tenants are away.

Case study: This tenant liked to leave her electric kettle on at all times because of her fondness for tea. It was the maid who was tasked with keeping the kettle full. Unfortunately, during the long holiday, the maid took a leave of absence without leaving a cautionary note. During this period, the tenant neglected to fill the kettle with water and left home on an errand while it was still plugged in. Once the water had completely evaporated, the motor began to burn, causing the outlet to short circuit. Fortunately, the automatic breaker cut the electrical current in time, preventing any extensive damage.

Cleaning Remove any food from the refrigerator and take out the rubbish to prevent rotting food from smelling up the unit. Disconnect the refrigerator plug from the wall to avoid the possibility of an electrical short circuit while away. Before removing the plug, ensure that the refrigerator is equipped with automatic defrosting or “No-Frost” to prevent melted ice from leaking onto the floor.

Case study:This tenant was preparing to go on a five-day trip abroad. Before he left, he correctly removed the refrigerator plug from the wall and cut the main breaker. Unbeknownst to him, his standard model refrigerator did not have “No-Frost” capability. After his departure, the frost in the freezer completely melted, flooding his unit and causing damage. This was later noticed by the building management, who had to then get in touch with the tenant while he was away.

Gas & Water Valves Check all spots where leaks are most likely to occur and have them repaired. Even the smallest water leaks can cause irreparable damage, especially if left unattended for long periods. Before going on a trip, turn off the gas and shut the main water valve to prevent water leakage while you are away.

Case study: Before going on vacation, this tenant discovered a small water leak in their unit. However, instead of having the leak properly repaired, the tenant simply wrapped the problem area with a piece of cloth. Upon returning, the tenant found his unit completely flooded, with severe damage to the laminated wooden floor.

Hard-To-Reach Nooks & Crannies Clean out dust and hair build-ups from all hard-to-reach nooks and crannies in the bedrooms, living room, storage room, behind the refrigerator, behind the washing machine, under all furniture, and especially under the bed.

Case study: This tenant was going away for three days and left the windows of his unit open for ventilation, thinking that it was only a short time. Unfortunately, the tenant in the unit above dropped a still-smouldering cigarette butt, which was carried by the wind into the open window below. Landing on a pile of laundry, it ignited a fire. Fortunately, the smoke detector sounded, and the management was able to attend to the situation to avert what could have been a major crisis.

Disguising Your Property Close all doors and windows before going away. All locks should be in good working order, including those of bathrooms and kitchens, which are typically weak spots. Any locks that are not functioning properly should be replaced to prevent the entering of rain, insects and dust, which can dirty and even damage rooms and belongings.

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