Getting ready for a family holiday is one of the most exciting times of the year, much like the anticipation of renting a home. Your bags are almost packed, the kids are buzzing, and you’re dreaming of sunshine and relaxation. But even with all that excitement, you might still feel a little worried about leaving your home empty. A few simple preparations can really help, letting you relax and enjoy your trip completely.
Secure Doors and Windows
This might seem obvious, but a quick check around the house right before you leave is super important. Don’t just think about the front and back doors. Make sure all windows are securely locked, especially those on the ground floor or those that are easy to reach from a flat roof.
And don’t forget about patio doors, side gates, and the garage. If you want extra security, you could even add window locks to older frames. If you’re leaving a car in the driveway, lock it up and maybe use a visible deterrent like a steering wheel lock. Taking these basic steps to protect your home can really put off opportunistic thieves.
Manage Utilities and Appliances
An empty house is the perfect time to stop wasting energy and prevent bigger problems. Before you head out, unplug anything you don’t need, like TVs, computers, and phone chargers. This isn’t just about saving a bit on your electricity bill; it also lowers the risk of an electrical fire. It’s also a good idea to turn off your main water supply.
A small leak from a washing machine hose or a toilet can cause huge damage if it goes unnoticed for a week or two. If you’re travelling in winter, set your thermostat to a low but steady temperature (around 12°C) to keep your pipes from freezing.
Protect Against Unwanted Guests
Keeping your home safe means thinking about all sorts of unwanted visitors, not just people. To make your house look like someone’s home, use timer switches for lamps in different rooms so they turn on and off in the evenings. Try not to post holiday updates on social media until you’re back home, as this can be an open invitation for burglars.
It’s also a good time to think about smaller intruders. An empty, quiet house can be a tempting spot for pests. Make sure all your food is sealed away in airtight containers, and your bins are completely empty.
For longer-term protection against pests that can damage your home’s structure, you might want to take preventative steps. Problems can go unnoticed for weeks while you’re away, so getting a professional inspection or a preventative termite treatment can be a smart part of your home maintenance, especially before a long trip.
Arrange for Mail and Plants
A pile of letters on the doormat is a classic sign that no one’s home. If you can’t ask a neighbour to grab your mail, consider using Royal Mail’s Keepsafe service. They’ll hold onto your mail for up to 66 days and deliver it all when you get back.
For your houseplants, give them a good watering before you leave and move them out of direct sunlight to help them stay moist. For a longer trip, you can even make a simple self-watering system with a bottle of water and some string.
Inform Trusted Contacts
One of the best security measures is having a real person keep an eye on things. Leave a spare key with a trusted neighbour, friend, or family member.
Ask them to pop in every couple of days to collect mail, open and close curtains, and generally make the house look lived-in. Give them your contact details and a copy of your travel plans in case of an emergency. Having someone you trust check on your property offers huge peace of mind and is one of the best home security tips for when you’re away.
With these simple checks done, you can lock the door behind you and head off on your adventure, knowing you’ve done everything you can to keep your home safe and sound until you return.
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