Prepare Your Holiday Home for the End of the Season

As another wonderful season at Don Amott Parks comes to a close, now’s the time to make sure your holiday home is ready for the colder months ahead. Properly preparing your static caravan or lodge before winter sets in helps protect it from frost, damp, and damage, ensuring everything is fresh and ready when you return next spring. 

To help you get started, we’ve put together a simple step-by-step guide on how to close down your holiday home for the season safely and effectively. 

1. Turn Off Your Utilities

Before leaving your holiday home, make sure all gas, electric, and water supplies are switched off at the mains. 

• Turn off your water stopcock to prevent burst pipes in freezing weather. 

• Unplug all appliances and switch off your power at the distribution board. 

• If you have bottled gas, disconnect and store cylinders safely and upright. 

This simple step reduces the risk of leaks, damage, and unnecessary energy use while your home is empty. 

2. Drain Down Your Water System

Freezing temperatures can cause serious damage to pipes, taps, and tanks. To prevent this: 

• Run all taps until the water stops flowing. 

• Flush and drain the toilet cistern. 

• Empty your water heater and any external hoses. 

• Leave taps open in the ‘on’ position over winter. 

Many owners prefer to book a professional drain-down service through the park, this ensures the system is completely cleared and protected from frost. Speak to the Don Amott Parks team if you’d like to arrange this before you leave. 

3. Clean Thoroughly Before You Lock Up

A deep clean now saves time later. 

• Wipe down kitchen surfaces and empty cupboards. 

• Remove any food, crumbs, or perishables to prevent attracting pests. 

• Vacuum floors, wash bedding, and clean the fridge (leaving the door slightly open to stop mould). 

• Remove waste bins and recycling. 

A clean and dry holiday home will smell fresher and be far more welcoming when you return. 

4. Protect Against Damp and Condensation

Moisture can build up during the winter, especially in sealed spaces. 

• Leave wardrobe and cupboard doors open to allow air circulation. 

• Use moisture traps or dehumidifier crystals in key areas. 

• Pull furniture slightly away from walls to prevent mould spots. 

• Lift mattresses off the bed base or store them upright to allow airflow. 

If your holiday home has blinds or curtains, leave them partially open to let in natural light while deterring unwanted visitors. 

5. Check Windows, Doors, and Vents

Before you leave, double-check that all windows, roof lights, and doors are properly closed and locked. Inspect seals for any cracks or gaps where water could get in. It’s also important to keep vents clear, these prevent condensation and maintain airflow, even when your holiday home is closed. 

If you notice any damage, let the Don Amott Parks maintenance team know so it can be addressed before winter. 

6. Remove Valuables and Personal Items

Take all valuables, cash, and personal electronics home with you. We also recommend removing bedding, towels, and clothing to prevent them from getting damp. Any outdoor furniture should be stored indoors or secured against strong winds. 

7. Check Your Insurance and Park Guidelines

Before closing up, review your holiday home insurance policy to make sure it covers the winter period. Some providers require a full drain-down or regular inspections to keep your cover valid. 

At Don Amott Parks, we recommend checking your park’s end-of-season procedure, our team can guide you through any site-specific requirements or dates for drain-downs and safety checks. 

End-of-Season Holiday Home Checklist

Here’s a handy printable list to tick off before you leave: 

• Switch off gas, electricity, and water at the mains 

• Drain all water systems (or book a professional drain-down) 

• Clean kitchen, bathroom, and living areas 

• Remove all food and waste 

• Prop open fridge and cupboard doors 

• Open wardrobe and cupboard doors for airflow 

• Use moisture traps or dehumidifiers 

• Check doors, windows, and seals 

• Store outdoor furniture safely 

• Remove valuables and personal items 

• Confirm insurance and park requirements 

Tip: Keep this checklist inside your holiday home ready for next year’s close-down. 

8. Book Winter Maintenance or Servicing

If your holiday home needs maintenance or an appliance check, autumn is the perfect time to book it. From boiler servicing to gas safety inspections, our on-site team can ensure everything is safe and ready for next season. 

You can also use this time to schedule refurbishments or upgrades while your holiday home is empty. Ask our friendly reception team for details. 

Look Forward to Spring with Don Amott Parks

Taking a little time now to prepare your holiday home properly means you can relax all winter, knowing it’s protected, secure, and ready for next year’s adventures. 

If you’d like help arranging your drain-down, maintenance, or storage, please speak to the Don Amott Parks team before the park closes for the season. 

Visit Don Amott Parks or contact your park office for more information about end-of-season preparation and reopening dates.