Vacation-Proof Your Home: How to Prevent Mold, Leaks & Storm Damage While You're at the Lake

Summer in the 417 area means weekends at the lake, trips to Silver Dollar City, and much-needed getaways. But while you're relaxing on Table Rock Lake or headed out of town, the last thing you want is to come home to a moldy, water-damaged mess.

At Clean Green Restoration, we’ve helped too many families who came home from vacation to find flooded basements, burst pipes, or hidden mold growth—all of which could have been prevented with a few quick steps.

So before you pack the sunscreen and hit the water, here’s your Vacation-Ready Home Checklist to make sure your house stays safe while you’re away.

Shut Off the Main Water Valve

This is the number one way to avoid coming home to a disaster. One tiny pipe leak or appliance hose failure can release hundreds of gallons of water—especially if no one is there to notice.

Shut off your water at the main valve
Or at minimum, turn off water to washing machines, dishwashers, and refrigerators with ice makers

Set the Thermostat Right (Yes, Even in Missouri Humidity)

You may be tempted to crank the AC way up or off to save on the electric bill, but remember—heat + humidity = mold’s best friend.

Set your thermostat to 78–80°F if you're gone for a week or less
Use a programmable thermostat or smart device to keep indoor air stable
Run a dehumidifier in basements or crawlspaces if possible

Check Your Sump Pump

In Nixa, Ozark, and Springfield, summer storms can roll in fast and drop inches of rain in an hour.

Test your sump pump to make sure it’s working
Consider adding a battery backup if your power goes out often
Clear out nearby downspouts and drainage paths

Unplug Electronics & Clear Gutters

A lightning strike or power surge can fry your electronics while you're gone. And if your gutters are full of leaves, they’ll send rainwater straight into your foundation.