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Small leak, big problem: How regular Home Watch visits prevent costly water damage
One of the most common questions I hear is: "Why do I need someone checking my home regularly if everything looks fine when I leave?" The answer is simple: many home problems develop gradually. A recent Home Watch client provided a perfect example. It started with a tiny drop During a routine inspection of an unoccupied home in the Clearview area of Snohomish County, I noticed something unusual on a water supply line near a shutoff valve. There wasn't an active leak. There wa
chrisbyler
2 days ago2 min read


Home Watch Checklist: What Seattle Area Homeowners Should Do Before Leaving for an Extended Period
Whether you're heading south for the winter, taking an extended vacation, or traveling for business, leaving your home unattended for weeks or months can create unexpected risks. Water leaks, storm damage, power outages, pest infestations, and security issues often go unnoticed until they become expensive problems. Before you leave, take these important steps to protect your Seattle-area home and enjoy peace of mind while you're away. 1. Inspect for Water Leaks Water damage i
chrisbyler
7 days ago3 min read


A Small Bird… and a Big Potential Problem
Last week during one of our homewatch visits, we noticed a small bird flying over and crawling into a dryer vent on the side of a home. The vent was slightly open and there was no screen inside to stop it. After taking a closer look, we discovered there was a nest being built inside the vent. It’s always a little sad to interrupt nature—but unfortunately, this could have become a serious issue for the homeowner if left unnoticed while they were away on vacation. Blocked dryer
chrisbyler
May 261 min read


Carbon Monoxide Disaster Waiting to Happen…
One of our Homewatch clients has been abroad for several months, and during a recent inspection I noticed their furnace wasn’t working. The homeowners asked if I could coordinate a visit with their HVAC company—happy to help. The technician arrived, repaired a faulty igniter, and restarted the furnace… only to immediately shut it back off. Then came the dreaded “Can you come take a look at this?” moment—similar to when your mechanic calls you under the car lift. Never a good
chrisbyler
May 111 min read


Home gutter care for seasonal homeowners
Evergreens + fall storms are beautiful—and brutal on gutters. Fir and cedar needles, bigleaf maple leaves, and “atmospheric river”...
chrisbyler
Sep 14, 20252 min read


Case study: theft discovered—water damage averted
During a routine weekly home watch visit, we arrived to find the garage door open. The washer/dryer and a refrigerator had been removed,...
chrisbyler
Sep 11, 20251 min read


Summer Cooling Tips for Your NW Home
As summer heats up in the Pacific Northwest, keeping your home cool and comfortable isn’t just about comfort—it’s also about energy...
chrisbyler
Jun 24, 20252 min read


Open Window: Why Regular Home Checks Matter
Yesterday, during a routine property check, I found an open window in an upstairs bedroom. Beautiful home—but unfortunately, the window...
chrisbyler
Apr 23, 20251 min read


Home Security Check: Why It’s Our First Priority
Home Security Check: Why It’s Our First Priority At Seattle Area Homewatch Services, the first thing we do when we arrive at your...
chrisbyler
Apr 15, 20251 min read


Mice Love Empty Homes—How to Spot and Stop Them
If you're away for the season, your home might be a cozy retreat—for mice. At Seattle Area Homewatch Services, we’ve seen an uptick in...
chrisbyler
Apr 14, 20251 min read


Storm last night
We did a few homewatch visits today. Although we had a major storm last night we didn't see any major damage. Just some tree limbs that...
chrisbyler
Feb 25, 20251 min read


Hotwater tank
During a homewatch visit today, I noticed the water heater has small brown discharge on the bottom. The tank appears to be about 10 years...
chrisbyler
Jan 31, 20251 min read


Keep your thermostat set higher?
As winter weather approaches, it may be time to adjust the temperature up in your home. This helps prevent plumbing fixtures including...
chrisbyler
Dec 4, 20241 min read


Water leak while power was out
Yesterday we did a Homewatch visit to a newer home with hardwood floors and found a water "puddle" on the floor next to the island but...
chrisbyler
Nov 23, 20241 min read


chrisbyler
Oct 9, 20240 min read


Water leaks are the most common issues
We found this stain on the bathtub on a first level bathroom during a visit this week. There is no discoloration or moisture on the...
chrisbyler
Aug 27, 20241 min read


Consider a Homewarranty for your home
Some of our clients have me get in touch with their Home Warranty company when I notice something that needs repairs while they are...
chrisbyler
May 14, 20241 min read


Why hire a homewatch service?
What is wrong with the above photo. Strangely the drywall buckled in the corner of the ceiling. Utilizing a professional Homewatch...
chrisbyler
May 9, 20241 min read


Spring season is almost here!
Spring is almost here. If you are away for the winter season, you may want to consider having your landscaper/gardener visit the...
chrisbyler
Mar 18, 20241 min read


chrisbyler
Mar 12, 20240 min read
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