Spring Break is the perfect time to travel, relax, and recharge—but before leaving town, Billings homeowners should take a few simple steps to protect their homes from water or fire damage.

At Newman Restoration, we regularly help property owners in Billings, Montana recover from preventable disasters that happened while they were away. Often, small issues turn into major restoration projects simply because no one was home to catch the problem early.

Fortunately, a little preparation can go a long way toward protecting your home while you travel.

Prevent Water Damage Before Leaving Your Billings Home

Water damage is one of the most common problems homeowners face in Billings, MT, especially during the spring when melting snow and seasonal storms increase moisture around homes.

• Shut Off the Main Water Supply- If you plan to be away for several days, consider turning off your home’s main water valve. This simple precaution can prevent plumbing failures, leaks, or burst pipes from causing serious damage while your home is empty.
• Check for Leaks Around Your Home- Before leaving for Spring Break, inspect areas around sinks, toilets, water heaters, and appliances. Even small leaks can cause major water damage if left unattended for days.
• Clean Gutters and Downspouts- Spring weather in Billings often brings heavy rain and snowmelt. Make sure your gutters and downspouts are clear so water drains away from your home’s foundation rather than pooling around it.
• Test Your Sump Pump- If your home has a basement sump pump, ensure it is working properly before you leave. During spring runoff in Billings, a malfunctioning sump pump can quickly lead to basement flooding.
• Maintain a Safe Thermostat Setting- Even during travel, keep your thermostat set to at least 60°F. Temperature fluctuations in Montana can lead to frozen pipes, which may burst and cause significant water damage.

Secure and Monitor Your Property

Damage isn’t always caused by weather. Having someone keep an eye on your property can make a big difference. Taking a few simple precautions can help reduce fire risks or other damage in an empty home.

• Unplug Non-Essential Electronics- Unplug appliances, chargers, and electronics that do not need to stay connected while you’re away. This reduces electrical load and eliminates unnecessary fire risk.
• Have Someone Monitor Your Property- Another effective way to protect your home while traveling is to have someone keep an eye on it. A trusted neighbor or friend can occasionally walk through your home to ensure everything looks normal and catch potential problems early.
• Install Smart Leak Detectors- Smart water sensors placed near water heaters, sump pumps, or sinks can alert you to leaks even when you’re away from home.

Protect Your Home Before You Travel

Preparing your home before leaving for Spring Break takes only a little time but can prevent significant damage and costly repairs.

At Newman Restoration, we help homeowners throughout Billings, MT, Big Sky, and Sheridan respond quickly when water, fire, or mold damage occurs. Our team is available 24/7 to help restore homes and businesses when disaster strikes.

Taking preventative steps today can help ensure you return from vacation to the same safe, dry home you left behind.

If the unexpected happens, our restoration experts are here to help.

📞 Billings, MT: 406-672-2819
📞 Sheridan, WY: 307-752-9300
🌐 www.newmanclean.com