Vacation watch

Home watch during holidays — Tonga

Leaving with peace of mind means someone can react: a leak, a power cut or a door left unlocked are better dealt with the same day than on your return three weeks later. On Helplease, you describe your needs and the workers offering this service in Tonga are notified of your request.

What the service covers

• planned visits during the absence;
• checking doors, windows and shutters;
• checking water points and the meter;
• handling the unexpected with your agreement;
• report with photos.

Depending on the agreement, the mission can include the planned visits, checking closures and installations, collecting the post, immediate alert in case of a problem and a report after each visit.

Key points

Keys, access and confidentiality

Hand the keys over in person, with a written list of what is allowed, and take them back at the end: no copies are made. Alarm codes are given to one person only and changed afterwards if needed. The worker invites nobody and posts nothing about your home; on your side, avoid announcing your absence on social media.

Instructions and emergencies

Leave in writing what needs to be known: where the water, electricity and gas shut-offs are, how the alarm works, quirks of the appliances and who to contact. In case of a leak, a power cut, damage or an attempted break-in, the worker contacts you immediately and alerts the relevant services if needed. No repair is undertaken without your agreement.

What affects the price

• length of the absence;
• frequency of visits;
• tasks requested;
• distance;
• presence of animals or many plants.

The rate is agreed with the worker based on these elements.

Frequently asked questions

How are the keys handed over?

In person, with a written list of what is allowed, and taken back when you return.

How many visits should I plan?

Depending on the length of the absence and the needs: plants, animals, post; agree it in advance.

How do I keep track?

Agree on regular updates, by message or photos, and on an emergency contact.

What information should I give?

The length of the absence, the tasks, the written instructions, a relative's details and any quirks of the home.