You wouldn't leave your home in UK unattended for months at a time. So the same applies to a holiday home in Europe- Spain, in particular.
Not only is the property subject to the effects of crime, but the Costa del Sol has one of the highest humidity levels in Spain and therefore, if the property is not aired regularly, then the walls and furnishings and fixtures and fittings will start to show signs of damp and mould.
There are regular power cuts in Spain and this can cause failure to burglar alarm systems and a fridge and freezer which has been left full of food will most certainly turn black and leave a disgusting smell.
Air-conditioning systems need regular maintenance. Spain does not have piped gas. Therefore gas bottles tend to be used for gas cookers, gas fires and gas BBQ's. If the gas regulators are not checked or changed after the expiry date, then there may be serious consequences.
Faulty electrical appliances such as water heaters, kettles etc.. may cause the entire electricity supply in your property to 'trip'
You may have some important post from the Local Authority, lawyers, the Water Board, the Electricity Board or the bank which could be sitting for months in your postbox and which required your immediate attention.
During the Winter months, heavy rain can cause water damage. If you have an apartment, there can be leaks from adjoining properties. Equally, if you have a private pool, then you will require regular weekly maintenance.
Gardens and indoor and outdoor potted plants need regular care and will especially require watering during hot weather. Also,drains can cause problems and your property will need regular flushing of toilets and running of taps to eliminate bad odours.Vermin infestation can occur- especially ants during the Summer months.
If you, as owners, are arriving on late flights, then surely you wouldn't want to start making beds and cleaning as soon as you arrive. In addition, you may have your own guests who require cleaning and laundry services or someone to call upon should there be an emergency.
It is important therefore to find someone who lives permanently in Spain, someone you can trust with your keys and someone who preferably speaks the language. You need someone who has local knowledge and contacts with local tradesmen and someone who will report to owners should there be anything requiring attention.
