Here's a complete list of things to do before you leave your home to spend the summer up north.

• Turn the water off at the emergency cut-off valve outside the home.
• Unplug the computer and remove the phone jack from the wall if you have a modem.
• Leave the refrigerator on, but do not leave any food in it or in the freezer.
• Prop open the dishwasher door to prevent mold growth from residual moisture.
• Turn off the water to the washing machine and the hot water heater.
• Unplug the hot water heater or flip the circuit-breaker.
• Unplug lamps, televisions, stereos.
• Close the fireplace flue.
• Turn down the volume on the phone so it won't ring endlessly for outsiders to hear and know you're not home.
• Don't move plants to group them together for easy watering. Plants may not adjust to their new locations.
• There is no need to unplug the stove.
• Give a trusted friend or neighbor a key and any security alarm information and a number where you can be reached.
• Don't leave the house empty-looking. Have someone open or close the drapes occasionally.
• Put a radio and lights on a timer to make it seem the home is still occupied.
• If you contract with a service, make sure they are licensed, bonded and insured.

If you're overwhelmed by the do's and don'ts, you can always hire a home inspection service to do it for you. Just make sure the one you choose is licensed, bonded and insured.