As the coronavirus pandemic drags on, millions of people are working and attending school from home — while trying to stay healthy and safe. It may come as no surprise that nearly 20% of surveyed adults either relocated or know someone who did because of the pandemic. 

Whether you've left for good or you're temporarily displaced from one of the cities hit hardest by the pandemic, here's what you can do to make sure your property is taken care of during the winter months. 

1. Hire professionals. As the winter season approaches, consider hiring professionals to inspect and clean your plumbing, HVAC system and roof. A plumber will drain standing water and properly winterize the pipes to avoid freezing, while a roofer can inspect your attic for holes, leaks and proper insulation. An HVAC contractor will need to check and clean the heating unit. 
2. Winterize outdoor plumbing. Disconnect and drain your outdoor hoses to prevent freezing and expanding, and store these items inside for the winter. 
3. Close any openings. Check that your windows, doors, vents and chimney are closed. This will prevent animals, pests and intruders from getting inside. 
4. Update your homeowners insurance policy. Traditional homeowners insurance policies typically don't cover vacant properties because they're seen as a higher risk. If you'll be gone for more than 30 days, consider purchasing unoccupied and vacant home insurance. But expect your premium to cost 50% more than a traditional policy. 
5. Clean the gutters. When gutters are left unattended, they can quickly fill up with debris, leaves, tree limbs and even animal nests, which can clog the gutters and prevent proper water flow. Make sure these are cleaned before the winter, leaving room for snow and ice to properly melt and drain from the roof and away from the home. Water leaks can flood the home or damage the foundation. 
6. Clean the outside. Remove outdoor furniture, appliances and toys from the yard. Store them inside to prevent damage to the items, the house and any nearby buildings. Then, trim any trees, bushes and shrubs to prevent snow and ice from piling up. 
7. Contact utility companies. Let your utility company know that you're leaving the house vacant for a period of time. They may disconnect the gas to prevent leaks while you're not living there. 
8. Check in occasionally. It's always a good idea to check for damage or break-ins and maintain the property so it doesn't appear abandoned. 
9. Hire a property manager. If you can't check on the home yourself, then consider hiring a local property manager to handle maintenance and notify you when needed. 

No matter the reason for leaving your property, it's important to prepare for the winter and take steps to prevent damage. Research has found that many aren’t prepared for emergencies in their primary residence, and homeowners may be even less prepared to withstand a harsh storm in a place you are not living in full time.