Home Watch Services in South Florida : Cost versus Benefit

On the fence about using a home watch service in South Florida while you’re away from town or on an ongoing basis for your second home? It may be tempting to ask a friend or neighbor to check on your place periodically. But here’s a list of just some of the added value that an accredited, insured home watch service in South Florida provides. Compare the cost versus benefit!

• Providing regular inspections to meet South Florida homeowners insurance requirements or clauses and give clients peace of mind.

• Delivering home management reports for your SFL home with GPS enabled software that logs visits

• Acting on your behalf quickly and knowledgeably, should an issue arise

• Retrieving mail, managing landscaping, and removing flyers at your South Florida home, which may deter intruders

• Inspecting for leaks, insect infestations, mold, infestations, and other potential issues to prevent or lessen the damage

• Answering alarm calls and working with local authorities in South Florida

• Providing the upkeep of air-conditioning and heating systems

• Meeting and managing vendors or acting as a liaison between you and your association, realtor, utility company, etc in South Florida.

• Developing and implementing a storm plan for your South Florida home

• Providing additional custom services that are unique to your family or your home’s needs

Cost Versus Benefit

Whether your South Florida home is a single-family or a condo, the benefits of a home watch outweigh the costs especially when a serious issue arises. Notice, we didn’t say IF a serious issue arises!

If you’re choosing to hire a professional home watch service in South Florida, you should of course hold them to a higher standard than a neighbor or a friend. They should work with you focusing on your individual needs to design a customized checklist. Your home’s structure, surrounding grounds, and mechanics should be detailed on that list. In addition, a quality home watch company in South Florida will have conducted background checks on the employees that enter your home. You should also expect that the home watch company is insured properly. This means that any damage that may occur during a home visit can be covered.

Expanding on Insurance

Depending on your insurance provider, you may have to purchase a policy with clauses requiring that you keep the house and grounds maintained, the utilities active, and someone to inspect the property regularly. Insurance companies feel that a South Florida home left vacant for a certain period is a higher risk for break-ins and damage. If you have to file a claim, the insurance company may request proof of home visits. That’s where a South Florida home watch professional with documented visits can save the day. Check to see if your insurance provider offers discounts for using a home watch professional in South Florida

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