A Seamless Summer: How to Prepare UHNW Homes for Extended Absences

For ultra-high-net-worth homeowners, summer often means extended travel—whether it’s a month in the Med or a full season abroad. But while you’re away, your London property remains a valuable asset requiring careful oversight.

At Bold & Reeves, we’ve spent over a decade perfecting what it means to prepare a prime home for absence. Here’s our guide to ensuring everything runs seamlessly in your absence—so you return to the same perfection you left behind.

1. Systematic Shutdowns (and Startups)
We perform controlled shutdowns of non-essential systems like underfloor heating, certain lighting circuits, and AV systems—while ensuring that climate control remains in place for sensitive furnishings, wine cellars, or IT rooms. We also plan reactivation carefully, so your home is comfortable on arrival.

2. Security Protocols That Don’t Sleep
Beyond basic alarms, we review access controls, set up regular perimeter checks, and test CCTV backups. If required, we can coordinate manned patrols or link to concierge teams who respond in minutes.

3. Housekeeper and Contractor Coordination
Whether you’re keeping staff in situ or pausing services, we ensure all contractors are briefed, keys are controlled, and schedules are adapted. Our audit trail guarantees clarity on who attended the property and when.

4. Proactive Problem Detection
Remote monitoring can only go so far. That’s why we conduct in-person inspections to check for leaks, pests, power trips, or other silent failures. Every visit is logged and reported through your digital logbook.

5. Your Return, Rehearsed
Before your return, we reactivate systems, test heating and lighting scenes, restock essentials, and ensure the housekeeper has everything ready—from fresh flowers to food delivery. You step into a home that feels freshly lived-in.

In Summary:
Leaving your property should never mean leaving it vulnerable. With Bold & Reeves managing the details, your home is in the best possible hands—whether you’re away for a fortnight or a full season.