People often assume that a home in the south of Portugal has an easy winter. Compared with northern Europe it does, but many Algarve homes were designed for sun and airflow, and an unoccupied house in a wet month can suffer in ways you would not see from a distance.
Why damp matters
When a house is shut up, air stops moving. In a damp spell, moisture has nowhere to go, and you may eventually find it in musty cupboards, marks on walls or mould on soft furnishings. A closed house can also make small leaks harder to notice, because nobody is there to see them starting.
Regular airing during a dry spell, sensible use of any dehumidifiers you have, and leaving internal doors and cupboards slightly open can all help. What is suitable depends on the property, so ask someone who knows the house.
Before you leave in the autumn
- Check that terrace drains and gutters you can safely reach are clear of leaves.
- Bring in or secure cushions, parasols and anything else the wind might move.
- Empty the fridge, and decide what should stay switched on.
- Ask a qualified person about the water supply, if the house will be empty for a long time.
- Make sure your cleaner, gardener and pool company know your plans.
- Check your insurance for any conditions about unoccupied homes. Your insurer or broker can advise you.
During the wet months
The most useful thing is someone who looks at the house, especially after heavy rain or strong wind. A visit can pick up visible signs of water ingress, lifted tiles, a blocked drain or a fallen branch, while they are still small problems.
It is also worth keeping an eye on the routine care you are paying for. A pool left without attention over winter can make the spring considerably more work.
When spring comes
Before your first visit of the year, it helps to have the house aired and cleaned, and the outdoor areas looked at. A little preparation means your first days are not spent discovering what the winter left behind.
If you would like someone to keep an eye on your home, our property inspections are designed for exactly this.