By The Jessica Lees Team | Serving the Wildwoods & Cape May County

After the nor'easter that flooded streets from North Wildwood to Wildwood Crest last week, closing up your shore home for winter feels a little different this year. The reminder was loud: properties on this island face conditions that inland homes simply don't. Saltwater, storm surge, freezing temperatures, and months of vacancy are a specific combination - and the checklist that covers a house in Cherry Hill doesn't fully cover a home in Wildwood, West Wildwood, or Diamond Beach.

Here's what actually matters before you lock the door.

Start With the Water

This is one of the most important steps and one that can cause significant damage when skipped.

• Shut off the main water valve and properly winterize the plumbing. Simply opening the faucets may leave water in the pipes. Have a plumber drain or blow out the system if needed, especially if the home will be unheated.
• Drain outdoor water lines, including irrigation systems, foot rinses, hose bibs, and outdoor showers. These exposed fixtures are particularly vulnerable to freezing.
• Protect toilets and drains with a non-toxic plumbing antifreeze approved for the intended use, following the manufacturer's instructions.
• Maintain adequate heat if the home isn't fully winterized. A thermostat setting of around 55°F is a common starting point, but the appropriate temperature depends on your property. A smart thermostat with remote monitoring can alert you to a heating failure before it causes damage.

Address What the Salt Air Does Year-Round

Living near the ocean is the point - but salt air works on your property even when you're not there.

• Rinse exterior hardware - railings, locksets, hinges, and hose connections - before closing up. Salt residue accelerates corrosion through the winter.
• Remove window AC units for storage when possible, following the manufacturer's recommendations. If they must remain installed, use an appropriate cover.
• Inspect outdoor HVAC components for corrosion and clear away leaves and debris. Check the manufacturer's recommendations before covering a unit, as some covers can trap moisture and certain systems should remain uncovered.

Flood and Storm Readiness

This year's nor'easter made the point better than any checklist could. Before you leave:

• Confirm your flood insurance is current. Standard homeowners insurance generally doesn't cover flood damage. Review your coverage limits, deductibles, and any requirements that apply while your property is vacant.
• Clear gutters and downspouts so water can drain properly during winter storms.
• Elevate or relocate anything stored under your home. Seasonal furniture, equipment, and belongings stored beneath elevated homes can be vulnerable to coastal flooding.
• If you have a golf cart - a familiar sight around the Wildwoods - follow the manufacturer's recommendations for winter storage and battery maintenance. The proper approach depends on the type of battery.

For Rental Owners

If you rent your property, a few additional steps apply before closing up for the season:

• Review your rental insurance policy for off-season coverage and any requirements for vacant properties.
• Update your listing status on booking platforms - and consider whether off-season weekends make sense to keep open given the fall event calendar.
• Document the property's condition with dated photos before closing up. This can be valuable if damage occurs over the winter.

Before You Walk Out the Door

Unplug non-essential appliances, secure outdoor furniture, and lock all windows and doors. If your plumbing remains active, leave cabinet doors beneath sinks open to help warm air circulate around pipes near exterior walls.

Let a trusted neighbor or local contact know the property will be vacant, and arrange periodic checks if possible. A light on a timer and a working alarm system are simple theft deterrents.

The Wildwoods off-season may be slower, but your property still needs attention. A little preparation now can help prevent an expensive surprise when you return in the spring.

The Jessica Lees Team works with buyers, sellers, and property owners across the Wildwoods and Cape May County year-round. Whether you're closing up for winter or thinking about what comes next for your property, we're here.

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The Jessica Lees Team - Your trusted source for real estate expertise across the Wildwoods and Cape May County.