What’s Watchwell?

We’re a professional service that visits your unoccupied property to visually inspect inside and outside for obvious issues.

During vacations or extended time away, during real estate transactions, for investment properties or second homes. We’re there for any time.

We don’t stay in your house. We’re not a security firm. We don’t manage properties. We’re Austin locals, not a franchise.

Instead, we keep an eye on, in, and around your home while it’s empty. Why didn’t someone think of this sooner?

Living room with a TV, bookshelf, framed artwork, and decorative vases with flowers on a side table.
House image

Hyde Park homeowner Chrystal T. - 2025

“I had no idea this kind of service existed. It was perfect for the two months after we closed, but before we moved in.”

Headshot of owner Chris Wooster, a man with glasses and short hair, wearing a blue checkered shirt, smiling, with a green checkmark overlay.

We’re a member of the National Home Watch Association, the country’s longtime professional organization of Home Watch professionals.

That means we’re:

• Criminal background checked

• Insured and bonded with liability insurance

• Committed to the NHWA Code of
Ethics and Mission Statements

Who is Watchwell?

Owner/operator Chris Wooster has been a Hyde Park homeowner since 2007. A homeowner and landlord caring for homes for decades, he knows how houses tick; old ones, new ones, gadgety ones, and everything in between.

A longtime ad agency creative director, he started Watchwell to fill a need: finding someone to keep an eye on things during vacations or other times when your home is unoccupied and vulnerable.

We work directly with homeowners, real estate professionals, and others who need a trusted, insured and bonded professional to check in on your important possession: your home.

A promotional banner for WatchWellaustin, advertising insured bonded home watch services for unoccupied properties, featuring a house with a garden and decorative elements.

Why do I need Watchwell?

Houses are complicated.

When you’re away, they’re vulnerable to the unexpected. Systems get weird. Circuits trip. Mold can set in if the HVAC gives out. Critters do critter things.

Watchwell is a home watch, visiting on your schedule to spot obvious issues that could otherwise mushroom into major problems.

Do neighbors or house sitters know house systems? Are they insured and bonded? Are they available 24/7 for emergencies, or to check in after Texas storms?

We are, and we do.

Austin Ranch Home image

Jill R. - Hyde Park homeowner - 2025

“We had a really bad experience with a hired house sitter. This was so so SO much better.”

Screenshot of a legal informational article titled "What's the Worst That Could Happen When Leaving a House Vacant?" on NOLO's website, explaining precautions to avoid issues when leaving a home empty.

Your insurance may require it. Really.

Your home insurance might deny coverage if it’s unoccupied for more than a month or so.

Documented visits by Watchwell can prove to them the house is being looked after.

Our visit reports can spare you the agony and hassle of denied coverage or claims.

Ask your agent. We might be a great answer.

Let’s talk. Quotes are free.

Every property is as unique as its owner’s needs. We’re friendly pros ready to visit, scout your place, and let you know how affordable peace of mind with home watches can be.