How to Safeguard Your Home in Your Absence
Preparing for a vacation is an exciting time, whether it’s a weekend getaway or an extended trip abroad. However, the thought of leaving your home unattended can bring a tinge of anxiety and not peace of mind. Protecting your home while you’re away is crucial not only to deter potential intruders, but also to ensure that you return to your home just as you left it. Here’s a comprehensive guide to securing your home during your travels.
1. Hire a House Sitter
One of the most effective ways to ensure your home remains safe while you’re away is by hiring a house sitter. A house sitter lives in your home during your absence, maintaining a presence that can deter potential burglars. They can perform routine tasks such as collecting mail, watering plants, and taking care of pets. This not only keeps your home looking lived-in, but also ensures that your pets are cared for in their familiar environment. The presence of a house sitter also means immediate attention to any issues that might arise, from leaks to necessary repairs, thereby preventing potential disasters.
2. Secure All Entry Points
Before you leave, ensure all doors and windows are securely locked. It might sound basic, but double-checking these can prevent easy access for burglars. Consider upgrading to high-quality deadbolts and window latches. If you have a sliding door, reinforce it with a metal rod in the track to block forced entry.
3. Use Smart Home Technology
Leverage technology to make your home look occupied. Smart lighting, which can be controlled remotely from your smartphone, allows you to schedule lights to turn on and off at specific times. Similarly, installing a smart doorbell and security cameras can provide real-time monitoring and alerts straight to your phone, giving the impression that someone is always home.
4. Don’t Advertise Your Absence
Keep your travel plans off social media and only share details with people you trust. An innocent post about your trip can act as a signal to burglars that your home is empty. Also, adjust your phone’s answering machine or email auto-replies to be vague about your whereabouts.
5. Stop Mail and Newspaper Deliveries
A simple yet effective tactic is to pause your mail and newspaper deliveries. Piled up mail is a clear indicator that the home is unoccupied. Use the USPS Hold Mail Service or ask a neighbor to collect your mail regularly.
6. Maintain Your Property
Ask someone to mow your lawn or shovel the snow, depending on the season. An unkempt yard can signal an empty house. Additionally, parking a car in the driveway can also suggest that someone is home. If possible, have a neighbor move the car occasionally to different positions.
7. Protect Valuables
Secure your valuables in a safe or safety deposit box before you leave. Important documents, jewelry, and electronic devices should be stored in a locked, inconspicuous place. Also, photograph and inventory valuable items for insurance purposes.
8. Utilize Timers and Motion Sensors
Connect some household electronics like TVs or radios to timers to simulate activity within the house. Motion-sensor exterior lights can deter trespassers at night by illuminating dark areas of your yard, suggesting someone might be home.
9. Lock Up and Label
Label your keys and any other important items in case of emergencies. However, avoid leaving spare keys outside under a mat or in a flowerpot. It’s a common hiding spot that burglars are well aware of. Instead, leave a spare key with a trusted neighbor or friend.
10. Check Your Insurance
Review your homeowner’s insurance policy to ensure it covers all scenarios that could occur while you’re away. This might include theft, water damage, or fire. Knowing you’re adequately covered can provide significant peace of mind.
Conclusion
Taking these precautions can significantly mitigate the risks to your home while you’re away, allowing you to enjoy your vacation fully. Implementing a combination of physical security measures and smart technology will ensure that your home stays safe and sound, ready to welcome you back from your travels.
By safeguarding your home effectively, you not only protect your physical property but also preserve the sanctity and peace of your personal sanctuary as well as peace of mind.
Are you looking for a house sitter? Get in contact with me.