home_watch_company

Homelax - View some of our work

Thu, 07 Apr 2022 15:09:59 GMT

What does a professional home watch really do? Everything!

Just kidding, there are limitations as to what a home watch can do. The more services we can offer to our clients, the less hoops they have to go through.

We try to be the go to contact for any questions an owner may have. This could range from remodeling a bathroom, hanging a new light, checking on their cars,

power washing their drive way before their arrivals, arranging a new furniture delivery or simply providing a fresh-up cleaning.

Below we have created a gallery to show you an insight into our day of a home watch and the services we provide. No two days are alike.

Home Security System - Yard Sign Advice

website@sitemodify.com (Website Editor) — Fri, 10 Dec 2021 20:25:38 GMT

Why it is not always a good idea to advertise your security system at your home

Famous Security System - Yard Signs. Whether they are from ADT, Xfinity, Home Security, Brinks or Vitex Systems.

Everyone has seen those signs sticking out in the yard. Some are totally faded from the sun, half broken or proudly advertise your security system. It has become clear that Southwest Florida is no exception to burglaries. Meanwhile we never experienced a home-break in at our customers homes, due to our infrequent visits to avoid a pattern and use of security cameras. But we do have seen an increase of burglaries, especially in gated communities. That is why it is important to have a professional home watch .

So why are the yard signs or windows stickers not a good idea?

Many famous security systems we just mentioned are built purely on wireless communications. For example, a window and door sensors. They communicate on low frequency between the sensor and the base station of the system. This is good to avoid high power and increase the battery life.

Security companies are required to publish their frequency channels to the FCC. Federal Communications Commission. This is standard in the manufacturing industry.

Here is the issue: You can find out the exact frequency MHz , for example: 433.92 MHz. A ton of consumer electronics use this frequency, such as baby monitors, garage door openers, etc. This can cause interference along other devices and will cause false alarm. The bigger problem is, you are able to buy amateur handheld radios on famous online retailers that can be tuned to the exact radio frequency and pretty much eliminate the wireless connection between your sensors and the base station. A radio is transmitting at a much higher wattage than a window sensor. Due to the higher power transmitting, the base station will no longer detect the small sensor being triggered.

To understand it easier: The window sensor is basically whispering to the base station due to the low wattage, meanwhile the handheld radio is shouting.

Do I have to be worried now?

No, you don't have to be. Some security systems can detect "jamming", but are often not reliable in doing so. We simply advice our customers to showcase as little as possible information about your security system. This way nobody can research your system and find possible loopholes to enter your home. An alarm system also sends out the feeling that the owner has something valuable to hide.

We understand Florida is a great vacation place, and we often forget to lock our vehicles and doors. But we highly advice to be cautious around your property. Do not leave the garage door open all day, do not leave your property without closing your blinds. It protects your privacy and should not be an open invitation to strangers.

Note: It is illegal to operate in non-authorized frequencies and requires to be a licensed Amateur radio operator .

Tropical Storm Elsa

website@sitemodify.com (Website Editor) — Fri, 02 Jul 2021 03:53:52 GMT

We are currently monitoring the tropical Storm Elsa without an active storm watch or warning on Southwest Florida.

Below we have the latest update as of Wednesday, Jul 7, from NHC. (Slide pictures to see changes)

At Homelax we always try to provide the latest and up-to-date information regarding a storm (Elsa) that may affect our client properties. We are expecting tropical storm Elsa to bring disturbed weather towards Southwest Florida, with wind speeds up to 50-60 mph (97 km/h). We require all outdoor furnitures to be moved inside the house or garage. As well any plants that can be moved. No hurricane shutters are needed at this point of time.

Attached we have a spaghetti model showcasing its predicted path towards the west side of Florida, such as Tampa. Strongs bands may reach Southwest Florida with heavy wind speeds and rain.

Update #1: Tropical Storm Elsa has converted into a Hurricane category 1. We expect Hurricane Elsa to downgrade back to a tropical storm after it has passed Cuba.

Update #2: Tropical Storm Elsa has downgraded back into a tropical storm. We expect Elsa to bring heavy rains and winds. No hurricane shutters are needed.

Update #3 : Southwest Florida has been put unter Tropical Storm warnings. We don't expect any major concerns, since we are out of the way of the storm.

Update #4 : Hurricane Elsa has been upgraded into a Hurricane Category 1. Southwest Florida is out of the danger zone.

Update #5: Tropical Storm Elsa has passed. Slight wind and rain. No other issues found.

Update #6: Newsletter sent out with updated information.

Hurricane Season 2021 - Important Information

website@sitemodify.com (Website Editor) — Mon, 17 May 2021 00:44:51 GMT

What you need to know as a home-owner for the Hurricane Season 2021

After a record-breaking season in 2020, the 2021 hurricane season is just around the corner. In order to be as prepared as possible, we have put together some very important information for you to take a look at.

Hurricane Shutters - When to install them?

This is an important question that we get asked every year. Should we install our Hurricane Shutters weeks in advance, wait for the immediate arrival of the storm or wait until the last minute ? At this point, we would like to consciously place the responsibility in the hands of the property owner to make the final decision in case of an emergency. We follow the same hurricane forecasts issued by the National Hurricane Center as anyone else can and should.We do not make weather forecasts, nor are we weather experts, nor do we make decisions with respect to weather development. As soon as the NHC issues a hurricane watch for Southwest Florida (usually 48-72 hours before a tropical storm is expected to make landfall), we need a definitive response from you, the customer, as to whether or not you want your hurricane shutters installed. There is absolutely no time left to wait until the last day in case of an emergency. We recommend you to be on the safe side and install the shutters even if the weather forecast does not give a clear indication of the development of a possible hurricane. Being prepared is a critical factor in protecting your property and avoiding unnecessary repair costs.

Hurricane Shutters - When is it too late to install them?

Listed below are the days you should let us know whether or not you want your shutters installed. We have countless properties to prepare in the event of an hurricane, so we can not wait until the last day. Depending on the extent of the situation, it may be problematic to protect all properties with the shutters in a timely manner. We only install available shutters.

More than 3-5 Days

Good

Less than 1-3 Days

Too late

Impact Windows - Is there anything else I need to worry about?

If your property has impact windows, you don't have to install extra hurricane shutters.The only thing we will do is move all outdoor furniture and any existing transportable planters to a safe location.

Hurricane Shutters - How much does it cost to install?

Unfortunately, we can't give a general price quote because every property has different circumstances. Some homes require more time than others and extra trips to get screws (if none are available at the house, but experience has shown that in a case of emergency there is no installation material for shutters available at all !). Therefore, please make sure that everything is available for the installation.

After Hurricane Repairs - When are my damages getting repaired?

Due to the ongoing pandemic, there are shortages in the supply chain of many important building materials, such as lumber. This problem will certainly be accelerated by a direct hit from a hurricane. We will expect many delays in roof repairs, screen repairs, and other damages that may occur during a tropical storm. During Hurricane Irma, we saw wait times of up to 3-6 months. Such wait times are beyond our control and should be factored in. We will do our best to assist with any repairs that need to be done, but we ask for your patience that not everything can be repaired at the same time and certain things may take longer than others. Thank you for your attention and here's to a hopefully quiet Hurricane Season 2021.

Your Naples Home Watch Service

- Homelax

Checklist for home owners

website@sitemodify.com (Website Editor) — Mon, 12 Apr 2021 21:50:49 GMT

Our step-by-step guide for home owners to keep their house in good condition !

Homelax offers excellent home watch services for home owners by scheduling maintenance services, provide pressure washer services and other house keeping services when you are not in town. This keeps your property in good condition and avoids any unnecessary repair costs. However, we often get asked: What can we do as a home owner while we are here?

Our goal is to ensure you can enjoy your stay as freely and openly as you please, but often there are certain things that the owner like to take care of themselves. Below we have crafted a quick house checklist for you to review. Use our checklist to maintain your house as best as possible.

Some important check points:

Schedule regular A/C maintenance service
Ensure your pest control is up to date
Test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
Pressure wash your pool deck, driveways, walkways and rain gutters.
Remove any excessive dirt and leaves from your drainage
Schedule your regular vehicle maintenance

Looking for a change in your home or a remodeling job?

Homelax offers a dedicated home repair service provided with excellent and professional quality, made in Germany. We are able to offer you the following. remodeling jobs:

New Kitchen
New Bathroom
New Flooring
New Paint

If you have any questions, don't hesitate to contact us through mail, phone or text message.

- Homelax

Hurricane Season 2020 has officially ended

website@sitemodify.com (Website Editor) — Mon, 30 Nov 2020 20:26:33 GMT

The 2020 Atlantic hurricane season broke many new records

A total of 30 storms have been recorded during the season, 13 of them developed into hurricanes, and six of them intensified into major hurricanes.

The season officially started on June 1 and officially ended on November 30. Looking at the photo above, it is very clear how lucky Florida was by avoiding any major storms around us. But this should be a heads up for next years season - be prepared. Louisiana was hit by three storms, one after another.

Another major concern was the ongoing pandemic. The evacuation process, sheltering, transportation, being crowded together with other groups would have been huge disaster for many people. The only solution was to evacuate by yourself or stay at home. Likely without power.

Tropical Storm Eta

website@sitemodify.com (Website Editor) — Sat, 07 Nov 2020 07:44:57 GMT

South Florida is under tropical watch as the Tropical Storm Eta is strengthening and moving at a faster speed.

Below we have the latest update as of Saturday , November 7, from NHC.

At Homelax, we always try to provide the latest and up-to- date information regarding a storm (Eta) that may affect our client properties. We are expecting tropical storm Eta to bring disturbed weather towards Southwest Florida, with wind speeds up to 50-60 mph (97 km/h). The storm has not formed an inner core yet, but if it does it may get into Hurricane wind speeds. As of now that is not likely to be a scenario.

Attached we have a spaghetti model showcasing its predicted path with a common trend to move west. Outer bands may reach Southwest Florida with strong wind speeds.

Flat spots from long-term parking and storage

website@sitemodify.com (Website Editor) — Tue, 13 Oct 2020 02:00:43 GMT

It should be no surprise that many of our customers have to leave their cars parked for a longer period of time due to the ongoing pandemic. This can result in flat spots on tires.

Flat spots on ti res are a condition that may show uneven ride disturbances or vibrations for the first time you are driving your vehicle. It usually disappears after driving for 20 to 30 minutes. But the longer your car has been parked, the less likely it may disappear. Today we are looking at temporary flat spotting.

Temporary flat-spotting on your tires

I f your vehicle has been parked in your garage for an unusual longer period of time (months), it may result in a permanent flat-spotting of your tires. Usually combined with low-tire pressure and high temperatures, something we experience in Florida garages.

How to prevent flat - spotting on your tires

We recommend to maintain a high tire pressure on your tires, in order to prevent flat-spotting from occurring. This is one of the number reasoning and should be done before your departure. Increasing the inflation slighter higher will a have better chance of preventing a flat-spotting.

Another prevention we advice is to have the vehicle driving for a few minutes. This will also help the battery, the internal car fluids and have the car tires parked in a different position than before. If possible we also advice to have cardboard or mats underneath your tires.

A scary awakening of vacant homes: More Mold due to COVID-19

website@sitemodify.com (Website Editor) — Thu, 03 Sep 2020 04:31:11 GMT

Unoccupied homes are an invitation for mold to grow, especially since COVID-19 reduced the visits and stays at vacation homes.

The pandemic has forced many of our clients and non-clients to leave their vacation home unoccupied for an unusual longer time than we normally experience.

Florida is home to rainy and humid weather, a perfect condition to grow mold when the humidity functionality of your air condition is not working properly. As well leaking spots inside your property are the number two leading issues.

Moisture is needed for mold to grow and it is aggressive in its survival capabilities, it will eat through wood, cardboard, tiles and many more materials. That's why at Homelax we recommend you to cool down your place properly even if you are not planning to visit.

5 Ways to prevent mold growth inside your home

Set your humidity levels between 45% and 55% to avoid moisture
Inspect your bathroom, kitchen and laundry room (such as sinks)
Repair leaks inside your home
Check your window frames, any small crack can lead to water entering your home
Clean your roof gutters to allow proper flow

Final Note

We strongly emphasize to have a professional home watch company look after your property. A mold issues is a serious danger for your health, allergies and damages. It is very cost effective to call a mold-removal company to repair and clean up. Safety should always be your top priority, for yourself, your family and the condition of your home.

- Homelax

Tropical Storm Laura

website@sitemodify.com (Website Editor) — Fri, 21 Aug 2020 18:23:53 GMT

Laura is the earliest named 12th storm ever in history with a very active Atlantic hurricane season this year.

Below we have the latest update as of Saturday 2PM Aug 23 from NHC.

UPDATE #1: We are now out of the path of tropical storm Laura and predict zero impacts.

At Homelax we always try provide the latest and up to date informations regarding a potential storm who may affect our client's properties. At the time of this post and it's predicted path we see IMPACT on Southwest Florida. We may have a chance of 15-20% to experience heavy and gusty winds with up to 40 MPH

The storm Laura shows potential to be increasing in speed and being upgraded to a Hurricane close to landfall. We do not have enough information to determine the exact impact and strength, but later this weekend we may know more information based on local officials.

Below we have a spaghetti model showcasing it's predicted path with a common trend to move west.

Tropical Storm Isaias

website@sitemodify.com (Website Editor) — Thu, 30 Jul 2020 06:12:21 GMT

The national hurricane center has finally given the storm a name, Isaias. Below we have the current data as of Friday, July 31 2020 with a path shifting to the east. We may be in luck and avoid the storm, but it's too early to tell.

Update: As of August 1st, we still see no major impact towards Southwest Florida. No watches or warnings have been provided by NOAA or by our local authorities. We will monitor the situation and apply last minute preparations if necessary.

At Homelax we always provide the latest and up to date informations regarding a potential storm who may affect our client's properties. At the time of this post and it's predicted paths we see IMPACT on Southwest Florida, due to it's big size. We may experience heavy winds, rain and flooding. No major damage is projected.

The storm Isaias still acts very unorganized and shows no potential to be increasing in speed or be upgraded to a Hurricane. We do not have enough information to determine the exact location, but later this weekend its expected for the storm to arrive.

Below we have a spaghetti model showcasing it's predicted path with a common trend to move east. As soon we have more reliable informations on hand, we will update this post.

Tropical Storm Gonzalo

website@sitemodify.com (Website Editor) — Thu, 23 Jul 2020 09:23:40 GMT

We are currently looking at our first major storm Gonzalo, who is transforming into a category 2 Hurriance and then downgrade to a storm. Below is a predicted path based on the NHC July 23, 2020.

At Homelax we always provide the latest and up to date informations regarding a potential storm who may affect our client's properties. At the time of this post and it's predicted paths we see NO impact on Southwest Florida. We may experience increased rain and thunderstorms.

Below is a spaghetti model to showcase potential paths.

Last Update: July 23th

Customer Portal - New Feature available!

website@sitemodify.com (Website Editor) — Wed, 01 Jul 2020 07:50:58 GMT

We are happy to announce a new feature for our existing customers

Our customers love their customer portal. It delivers rich informations about their property so they can view their latest home visits with attached photos. As well be notified on any found issues and stay up to date with their payments. It's a one-of-kind feature that no other home watch company is delivering and we continue to improve!

Today we have added a new feature that is called property status. It delivers an easy glance at all important aspects of your house. It sit's right at the top of your portal and provides check marks on details like electric, garden or your internet connection. The entire status bar feels more focused, organized but yet familiar. Bringing all important features to the center of the user.

Let's look at an example: If we happen to find an issue with your internet connection, the check mark will turn into a red warning sign till the issue has been resolved. Our client will be notified immediately with a working solution.

We believe this will deliver added visibility into how Homelax checks your property with an up to date status.

Homelax - A peace of mind

Hurricane Season 2020 beings early!

website@sitemodify.com (Website Editor) — Mon, 18 May 2020 06:32:56 GMT

Storm Arthur has formed - but no need to worry

The season officially starts on June 1 and ends on November 30 and has already surprised us with an early storm, named Arthur. Which is currently heading towards the North Atlantic.

Here is what you need to know for the Hurriance Season 2020

95% chance that one Hurriance will make landfall in the US
4 Hurriance's will become major storms
An average of 20 named Storms fill be formed
Above normal-activity is predicted
Atlantic ocean water has been warmer than it used to be

The most predicted active season to date!

Homelax will keep you informed throughout the season with any potential storms that may have an impact on Florida. Based on it's predicted path based on the American Module we will have to make preparations 5 days prior to in order to serve all our customers.

As always, we hope that no major storms will be formed, especially during COVID-19.

- Homelax

Naples Home Watch - Year 2020 what you need to know

website@sitemodify.com (Website Editor) — Mon, 20 Jan 2020 08:18:31 GMT

Another year, another professional care taking of your home in sunny southwest Florida!

We welcome everyone into the new year of 2020 and we are excited to be working with our customers into another great year, ye t we have some important information to share that every householder should know for 2020.

Increased humidity and temperature causing mold inside vehicles

Due to global climate changes around the world, Southwest Florida is not excluded. We have seen increased moisture spikes in 2019 causing mold damages in cars & vehicles that we have never seen before. We strongly advice for long absence to dehumidify your vehicle while it's sitting inside your garage. This can be done by placing a Moisture Absorber inside the interior.

We also recommended monthly car washes if your car is being parked outside of a garage and near the ocean. Sand and small particles can leave marks on the vehicle and cause damage, such as to windshield wipers. For longer absences it's necessary to move the vehicle for one mile to make sure all fluids are being run through the engine and the battery stays in good condition.

Any humidity issues inside the property / house should be immediately inspected by a professional AC Company and if necessary to be fixed to avoid further damage. DampRid can not resolve humidity & moisture problems inside homes.

Teaming up together with ITVizon - Naples Computer Service.

We have teamed up with ITVizon to offer discounted pricing for computer, internet and home automation services. It can occasionally happen that Modem / Router needs to be replaced and set up again. Problems can occur with the TV or tv service and needs to be fixed. That's where we looked for a reliable service and are happy to share it with our existing customers at a discounted rate.

Website : www.itvizon.com

Tropical Storm Dorian Forming - Update

website@sitemodify.com (Website Editor) — Sun, 01 Sep 2019 09:22:35 GMT

Hurricane Dorian has changed it's path and is currently not projected to make landfall on Florida.

The latest update from NHC from September 1st, 5AM EDT has shown a positive change in its Hurriance path. Please see picture above.

As of right now, everything stays as normal and show's no potential threat. We'll keep monitoring the hurriance.

Sincerely,

Homelax

Tropical Storm Dorian Forming - Monitoring

website@sitemodify.com (Website Editor) — Wed, 28 Aug 2019 03:57:48 GMT

We are currently monitoring a tropical storm in the Atlantic with a direct path towards Florida

According to NHC at the time of Tuesday, August 25th 11PM we are looking at a storm with potential hurricane threats to Florida.

We have been watching closely the development of this storm for the past few days and haven't felt the need to inform you until now. Please be advised that any hurricane protections must be done 3 days in advance in order to prepare every customers property.

We will keep you updated as we watch this storm develop.

Sincerely,

Homelax

Hurricane Season 2019 Begins June 1st

Fri, 31 May 2019 07:44:50 GMT

Prediction: Near normal season

Starting June 1st the hurricane season starts with a prediction of 13 named storms. Two of them will classified as major hurricanes. According to the NOAA we will see a near normal season due to a weak El Niño. Mind you, it only takes one strong hurriance to cause a tremendous damage. Due to global warming and higher temperature, the strengths of hurricanes are increasing since the Gulf water is warmer than ever.

What services does Homelax offer before a Hurricane?

All customers will be notified immediately after a noticeable hurricane path has been recorded and set to hit Southwest Florida. Please keep in mind that any Hurricane can change its path within the last days. Any necessary preparations will be installed at the request of the client, please refer to the installation costs below.

Phase 1 - 5 Days Prior Impact

Hurricane Preparations at normal charge

Phase 2 - 3 Days Prior Impact

Hurricane Preparations at twice the charge

What services does Homelax offer after a Hurricane?

After the storm or hurricane has passed by and local authorities permit reentering into the area, we will access your property and record any obvious storm damage and take appropriate actions as necessary. Pictures and videos will be taken for your record and potential insurance claims.

Depending on the circumstances, power and cellular service won't be available for a period of time and may delay our communication.

If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact us.

Homelax website is live!

Mon, 31 Dec 2018 03:42:16 GMT

Welcome to our new home

Hello visitors and existing customers,

We are very excited to share you our new home. Homelax is a brand new identity and focuses on home watch services in Naples, Florida.

Feel free to browse our site. You'll find a variety of sites, services and a brand new customer portal. That was exclusive designed for you! And we can't wait for you to try it out.

If you have any questions, please call us at 239 590 5174 or e-mail us at info@homelax.com. We will be happy to help. We look forward to talking with you.

home_watch_company

Homelax - View some of our work

What does a professional home watch really do? Everything!

Home Security System - Yard Sign Advice

Why it is not always a good idea to advertise your security system at your home

So why are the yard signs or windows stickers not a good idea?

Do I have to be worried now?

Tropical Storm Elsa

We are currently monitoring the tropical Storm Elsa without an active storm watch or warning on Southwest Florida.

Below we have the latest update as of Wednesday, Jul 7, from NHC. (Slide pictures to see changes)

Hurricane Season 2021 - Important Information

What you need to know as a home-owner for the Hurricane Season 2021

Hurricane Shutters - When to install them?

Hurricane Shutters - When is it too late to install them?

Impact Windows - Is there anything else I need to worry about?

Hurricane Shutters - How much does it cost to install?

After Hurricane Repairs - When are my damages getting repaired?

Checklist for home owners

Our step-by-step guide for home owners to keep their house in good condition !

Hurricane Season 2020 has officially ended

The 2020 Atlantic hurricane season broke many new records

Tropical Storm Eta

South Florida is under tropical watch as the Tropical Storm Eta is strengthening and moving at a faster speed.

Below we have the latest update as of Saturday , November 7, from NHC.

Flat spots from long-term parking and storage

It should be no surprise that many of our customers have to leave their cars parked for a longer period of time due to the ongoing pandemic. This can result in flat spots on tires.

﻿ Temporary flat-spotting on your tires

How to prevent flat - spotting on your tires

A scary awakening of vacant homes: More Mold due to COVID-19

Unoccupied homes are an invitation for mold to grow, especially since COVID-19 reduced the visits and stays at vacation homes.

5 Ways to prevent mold growth inside your home

Final Note

Tropical Storm Laura

Laura is the earliest named 12th storm ever in history with a very active Atlantic hurricane season this year. ﻿ ﻿

﻿ ﻿ ﻿

Below we have the latest update as of Saturday 2PM Aug 23 from NHC.

﻿

UPDATE #1: We are now out of the path of tropical storm Laura and predict zero impacts.

Tropical Storm Isaias

Tropical Storm Gonzalo

We are currently looking at our first major storm Gonzalo, who is transforming into a category 2 Hurriance and then downgrade to a storm. Below is a predicted path based on the NHC July 23, 2020.

Customer Portal - New Feature available!

We are happy to announce a new feature for our existing customers

Hurricane Season 2020 beings early!

Storm Arthur has formed - but no need to worry

Naples Home Watch - Year 2020 what you need to know

Another year, another professional care taking of your home in sunny southwest Florida!

Tropical Storm Dorian Forming - Update

Hurricane Dorian has changed it's path and is currently not projected to make landfall on Florida.

Tropical Storm Dorian Forming - Monitoring

We are currently monitoring a tropical storm in the Atlantic with a direct path towards Florida

Hurricane Season 2019 Begins June 1st

Prediction: Near normal season

What services does Homelax offer before a Hurricane?

What services does Homelax offer after a Hurricane?

Homelax website is live!

Welcome to our new home

Temporary flat-spotting on your tires

Laura is the earliest named 12th storm ever in history with a very active Atlantic hurricane season this year.