Keeping a watchful eye on your place up north.
Our Services
From weekly property checks to emergency storm response, our services are designed to keep your cabin safe, secure, and running smoothly no matter the season. We handle the details so you can relax and enjoy your time Up North. Whether it’s checking thermostats, coordinating repairs, replacing filters, or digging you out after a snowfall, we’re here to make second home ownership easier and more worry free. Think of us as your on call cabin crew, always looking out for your place when you’re not there.
Reliable, Detailed Report Access for You and Your Team
North Star Cabin Watch uses HomeWatchIT, a secure cloud-based platform built specifically for home watch services, to manage customer data and complete visit reports. This software allows us to upload real-time photos, inspection notes, and service details directly from the field using a mobile app, even when offline. All client information is encrypted, safely stored, and easily accessible, which supports accurate reporting and peace of mind.
After each visit, you’ll receive a detailed inspection report that documents what we saw, what needs attention, and what we took care of – complete with photos for full transparency. It’s peace of mind, delivered straight to your inbox.
Weekly Property Checks
From regular property checks to emergency storm response, our services are designed to keep your home, cabin, or recreational property safe, secure, and running smoothly no matter the season. We handle the details so you can relax and enjoy your time Up North.
Our comprehensive home watch services are structured to safeguard your home, cabin, or recreational property throughout the year, promoting security, proper maintenance, and operational efficiency across all seasons. Whether it’s overseeing mechanical systems, coordinating repairs, replacing furnace filters, or addressing snow removal needs, our team is dedicated to streamlining secondary home ownership and minimizing client concerns. Think of us as your on-call cabin crew, always looking out for you when you’re not there.
Our home watch services are fully customizable to address each client’s individual requirements. Through close collaboration, we develop tailored service packages aligned with your specific priorities. Core to our offerings, our experienced team conducts thorough inspections at regular intervals to ensure every aspect of your property is meticulously monitored. From inspecting mechanical systems, lighting fixtures, security systems, and appliances to walking the property looking for any issues, we keep a close eye on everything while you’re away. If something’s not right, you’ll be the first to know – with photographic documentation and clear communication. Many routine maintenance or minor repair tasks can be resolved directly by our team, reducing inconvenience and keeping your property remains well-maintained at all times.
Looking for something more? We also provide a full range of additional services such as emergency storm response to assess damage and utility disruptions; restocking food, beverages, and snacks; keyholder alarm response; mail and package forwarding; and supervision of contractors performing property maintenance.
Contact us today to learn more about our customized home watch services and schedule your first inspection.
Exterior Checks
Upon arrival at your property, we will conduct a thorough inspection of the grounds and exterior of your home or cabin. The inspection will include, but is not limited to, the following:
✔️ Confirm that the driveway is free from obstructions such as deep snow, fallen branches, or other items that may limit access. We will also verify that your snow removal contractor is maintaining clear driveways and entry pathways.
✔️ Check the mailbox and front entry area for any accumulated mail, brochures, flyers, newspapers, or packages and secure these items inside your residence.
✔️ Evaluate the overall condition and appearance of landscaping elements, including plants, trees, shrubs, and yard areas, to confirm they remain neat, healthy, and maintained to your expectations. Any trash, debris, or branches requiring removal will be identified.
✔️ Conduct a visual assessment of the siding, roof, and gutters from ground level for signs of storm damage, excessive snow accumulation, or visible ice dams.
✔️ Examine the foundation area for any apparent drainage concerns.
✔️ Inspect all doors, windows, and outbuildings for indications of damage and/or unauthorized entry and report any findings to the property owner with recommended actions.
✔️ Check the perimeter of your home or cabin for signs of insect infestation or pest activity.
✔️ Inspect exterior lighting fixtures and timers to confirm that they are functioning properly. Replace bulbs, as necessary.
✔️ Examine all outdoor faucets and irrigation systems for leaks, damage, or evidence of freezing.
✔️ Inspect pool or spa areas for any obvious issues, as needed.
Interior Checks
Once the exterior assessment of your property is complete, we proceed with a comprehensive inspection of your home or cabin’s interior. This evaluation encompasses, but is not limited to, the following tasks:
✔️ Visually examine all doors, windows, walls, floors, and ceilings for indications of damage, water intrusion, or mold.
✔️ Confirm that windows and doors are securely closed and locked.
✔️ Verify that garage doors and opener mechanisms are operating correctly.
✔️ Survey all interior areas for signs of insect infestation or pest activity.
✔️ Evaluate the water system—including the sump pump, hot water heater, water softener, faucets, toilets, sinks, showers, and tubs—for leaks and verify proper functionality. Based on your preferences, we can even replenish your supply of water softener salt as needed.
✔️ Check HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) systems are maintaining target temperature and humidity levels. Inspect air filters and replace, as necessary.
✔️ Examine electrical breaker panels for tripped circuits; reset appliances, timers, and clocks after any power outages.
✔️ Test appliances such as refrigerators, freezers, beverage coolers, dishwashers, and garbage disposals to confirm proper operation.
✔️ Assess interior lighting fixtures and timers for proper operation and replace bulbs as needed.
✔️ Test smoke detectors and carbon monoxide (CO) alarms for correct performance and replace batteries where required.
✔️ Confirm operational status of home systems including security alarms, internet connectivity, and Wi-Fi enabled devices.
Routine Home Upkeep
We take care of the little things that keep your cabin running right. From replacing furnace filters and filling water softeners to laying rodent traps, replacing light bulbs, checking batteries, and arranging your propane fills, our routine upkeep and preventative care help you avoid bigger problems down the line - so your place is always ready to use when you arrive.
Contractor Oversight
We handle contractor oversight so you don’t have to. As the sole keyholders, we coordinate access to your property for scheduled maintenance or repairs, allowing contractors to get in, complete their work, and leave efficiently. We’re on-site to monitor the job, protect your home, and keep everything running smoothly from start to finish.
Key-holder Response to Alarms
and Security Systems
As your trusted keyholder, we’re ready to respond when alarms or security systems are triggered. Whether it’s a false alarm or a real concern, we’ll be on-site quickly to assess the situation, communicate with authorities if needed, and keep you informed every step of the way.
Emergency Storm Response
When severe weather hits, we’re your first responders on the ground. We quickly assess storm damage, check for power outages, and take action to get your property back up and running as soon as possible. Whether it’s coordinating with utility companies, clearing debris, or inspecting for damage, we make sure you’re informed and your cabin is cared for every step of the way.
Coordinate Snow Removal
We make sure your cabin is accessible and safe during the winter months. Whether it’s plowing the driveway, shoveling walkways, or salting steps and entries before your visit, we coordinate snow removal so you can arrive without worry—no matter how deep the snow gets.
More Care for your Cabin
Additional Services
Looking for some extra services to enhance your convenience and peace of mind? We’ve got you covered! We can offer a wide range of additional services to meet your unique needs. Examples include:
✔️ Adjust heating, air conditioning, and water systems to preferred settings prior to your arrival.
✔️ Restock refrigerators, beverage coolers, and pantries with requested food, beverages, and snacks.
✔️ Collect, sort, and forward accumulated mail and packages, as necessary.
✔️ Monitor and maintain e-bike batteries so they are charged and ready for use.
✔️ Refuel boats, mowers, ATVs, side-by-sides, and other power equipment.
✔️ Manage trash bin service by relocating bins for collection and returning them post-pickup.
✔️ Schedule and monitor vendors performing HVAC and water heater maintenance, seasonal landscaping clean-ups, window washing, chimney inspection, painting, repairs, and other similar services.
✔️ Conduct post-storm assessments to inspect both exterior and interior property conditions for possible damage or utility service interruptions. For instance, following a severe weather event, we inspect roofs from ground level for visible damage and evaluate the property for damaged trees or fallen branches.
✔️ Provide key holder services to facilitate vendor, contractor, and emergency responder access to your property for deliveries, service appointments, alarms, and other unforeseen needs.
✔️ Handle various errands to reduce inconvenience and maximize your comfort during your time ‘Up North’.
If you require services not listed above, please do not hesitate to inquire. Our primary objective is to provide you with a worry-free home watch experience, and if we are unable to assist directly, we will gladly refer you to a reliable local vendor to meet your needs.