Record the starting condition
Before leaving, note visible concerns and take dated photographs of accessible areas. Address known issues with appropriate professionals where practical. Save service records and identify equipment that may need attention while you are away. A baseline makes later changes easier to discuss and gives your local contact useful context for the next agreed visit.
Agree an access plan
Choose who may hold keys and under what circumstances they may use them. Confirm building procedures and how visits will be recorded. Keep your contact information current and nominate an alternative contact if useful. An access plan does not provide a security guarantee or replace suitable security arrangements. Explain how you want unexpected requests handled.
Discuss utilities with the right people
Ask qualified professionals about the safe handling of installed systems during a long absence. Requirements vary by equipment and property. Avoid applying generic instructions to electrical, gas or water systems. Check relevant building or insurance conditions directly with the responsible provider, and keep any equipment-specific instructions available to the person authorised to act.
Plan visits and maintenance decisions
Agree the frequency and purpose of local visits, the accessible areas and the updates you want. Define how visible concerns will be escalated and how expenses will be approved. Make sure the coordinator knows how to reach you and what to do if a decision cannot be obtained promptly. Do not leave spending authority ambiguous.
Prepare for your return
Allow time to coordinate cleaning and necessary specialist checks before the home is occupied again. Review outstanding tasks, confirm access arrangements and ask about changes noticed during your absence. Update the record when work is completed. If the property will remain empty longer than planned, review the support arrangements instead of assuming they continue unchanged.
Put the next step in motion
Discuss your requirements with Aalam and agree the support appropriate for your property.