Secure your home while travelling: a comprehensive guide

Taking a well-deserved break should be about making memories, not worrying about your home. Here’s your detailed guide to travelling with true peace of mind.

Create a Lived-in Presence

A home that looks occupied is your first line of defence against opportunistic theft. Modern timer switches can create natural lighting patterns throughout your house, moving from room to room as evening progresses.

Consider your home’s appearance from the street. Regular garden maintenance, collected mail, and occasional vehicle presence all signal an active household. Arrange these elements before you depart to maintain this impression throughout your absence.

Building a reliable neighbourhood network remains one of the most effective security measures. A trusted neighbour keeping watch provides far more protection than any single security device.

Be careful of what you post online

Our connected world has transformed how we share our lives, but it’s also created new security considerations. While sharing travel experiences brings joy to friends and family, consider how public posts might compromise your home’s security.

Instead of real-time updates, consider creating a private album to share with select family members and friends. You’ll still capture those precious moments without broadcasting your absence to a wider audience.

Get your home security up to date

Today’s security technology offers impressive capabilities without requiring technical expertise. Video doorbells provide clear footage of visitors, while smart lighting systems can be programmed to mirror your usual routines.

Motion-sensor lighting remains a crucial element of home security. Strategic placement around entry points, pathways, and darker areas of your property creates both convenience and deterrence.

Consider installing timed internal lights in rooms you regularly use. Modern systems can even include subtle sounds like televisions or radios, though be mindful of your energy consumption.

Conduct a Thorough Pre-Departure Check

Start your security preparations well before departure. Test all window locks, including those rarely-used skylights or ventilation windows that are often overlooked.

Check external doors, ensuring deadbolts engage properly and frames remain sturdy. Don’t forget garage doors, side gates, and any external storage areas – these alternative entry points often receive less attention.

Secure Your Valuables

Consider your storage options for valuable items. While safes offer good protection, think carefully about where you store spare keys and access information.

Document your valuable items through photographs and written records. Store this information securely in cloud storage, ensuring it’s accessible if needed for insurance purposes.

Don’t Overlook Your Garden

Your garden requires strategic consideration. Trim back any vegetation that could provide cover near windows or create easy climbing access to upper levels.

Consider your outdoor furniture and equipment. Store away items that could assist intruders, like ladders or tools. Remember to secure garden ornaments that hold sentimental or material value.

Prepare for Unpredictable Weather

Australian weather can be unpredictable. Clear your gutters before departure to prevent water damage during sudden storms.

Secure or store items that could become projectiles in high winds.

Check your roof for loose tiles or sheets – these small issues can become major problems during severe weather when no one’s home to notice early signs of water ingress.

Have an Emergency Plan

Maintain an updated emergency contact list including neighbours, family members, and relevant service providers. Share this information with your trusted contacts, including how to reach you while travelling.

Consider marking your main water shut-off valve and electrical switchboard. In an emergency, this allows others to quickly address issues that could cause significant damage.

Consider Professional Services

If you’re away for an extended period, consider engaging professional services. Regular garden maintenance, pool cleaning, or security patrols can maintain your property’s appearance while deterring unwanted attention.

Ensure any regular home services are either suspended or properly briefed about your absence. This includes newspaper deliveries, gardeners, cleaners, or any other regular visitors to your property.

Conduct a Final Check

The day before departure, walk through your property with a checklist. Check all locks, timers, and security systems. Ensure your insurance policy is current and covers extended absences.

Remember to properly secure items in your yard that could be affected by weather – outdoor furniture, pot plants, or garden equipment. A secure home extends beyond just your four walls.

For information about protecting your home with comprehensive insurance coverage, visit our referral partner Huddle Home Insurance.