Whenever you’re leaving your home to go on a vacation, whether short or long, your house becomes at risk for unwanted entries and even burglaries. In addition to conventional security measures, what more can you do to keep your house safe while away? It is imperative that you invest in a home security system, alert the managing company and let a few close people know before you head towards sunny beaches or icy mountains. Another viable option for you is to hire a competent property management company to manage your property for you. However, do take necessary measures at your end as it will give you peace of mind and avoid unwanted worry when enjoying your vacation.
- Check and Recheck All Locks: It seems like a very redundant thing to say but always check and recheck that you’ve securely locked all entrances, windows, pathways, etc. Do not leave any open. It is easy to forget to check the deadlock, garage door, etc., so print a list of all locks and double-check before leaving.
- Ask Someone to House Sit: Nothing can compare the effectiveness of a house sitter when it comes to keeping your house safe when you’re away. Ask a relative, friend or neighbor if they can help you out in this regard. If not, you can always hire a pro for such tasks.
- Stop All Mail and Deliveries: A pile of unattended mail, flyers, deliveries, newspapers will surely attract unwanted attention. Request USPS to stop all mail during your absence, reschedule expected deliveries, and ask a neighbor to take care of flyer and other unexpected mail.
- Take Care of Your Pets: Vacations are fun for humans, but do not leave behind your pets, or at least not unattended. Ask a relative/friend or hire a professional pet sitter to visit regularly. Your pet will be taken care of and your house won’t be unoccupied for days at a stretch.
- Unplug Untimed Appliances: For appliances such as dishwashers, TVs, coffeemakers, blenders, etc., unplug them to save electricity as well as prevent any power surges or fire hazards. However, it is advisable to keep timed appliances on as it will make it seem like the empty house is still occupied and in use.
- Set Timers on Strategic Lights: It is very effective to set a timer on the strategic exterior and interior lights to give opportunistic burglars the illusion of someone being home. However, do not do anything out of the ordinary. If you keep the porch light off usually, keep it off. Don’t arouse suspicion.
- Don’t Advertise Your Vacation: It’s alright to be excited about a vacation or a trip, but we advise caution in whom you share this information. We usually let friends and relatives know where we’re going, but don’t publicize your trip at public places, at the workplace, or among acquaintances. No need to be suspicious of everyone, but it’s always good to be cautious.
- Advertise Your Home Security: On the other hand, it is always good to advertise how secure your house is. Boast about the security system you have installed at your place (not too much though). If you already don’t have a home security system, invest in one. Meanwhile, you can prop up fake cameras and security logos here and there while you’re away.
- Keep Up House Maintenance: Hire a landscaping service or ask your neighbor’s teenager to mow the lawn even during your absence. Ensure that all other regular house maintenance is kept up. These include clearing up the lawn, shoveling the driveway, taking care of trash, watering the plants, etc.
- Hire a Property Manager: To cover all bases, you can simply hire a property manager to take care of your house while you bathe in the tropic sun or go visit any other place on our little blue planet. Property managers will ensure the safety, security, and maintenance of your empty house for you.
It’s all well and good if you’ve been living in the same place for years, but what if you just moved in a month or even a week ago, and were to leave on a business trip immediately? Who do you ask to take care of your house then? In this case, and even if you’re an old resident, you can hire Real Property Management Associates for our HomeWatch services.
If you have more questions, don’t hesitate to contact our Cape Cod property management service at (508) 534-8044.