With the holidays right around the corner, you may be planning a trip to Florida to heat up or to your family’s house for a celebration that’s out of town. Although you are excited, you might be reluctant to leave because you’re not sure how to secure your house when you’re gone. Here is a complete checklist and guide so that you can enjoy your holidays and know that your home is staying safe and sound!
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General Preparations:
Secure Windows and Doors: Double-check that all windows and doors are securely locked. Consider installing deadbolts for added security.
Unplug Electronics: Unplug non-essential electronics to save energy and reduce the risk of electrical issues. This also helps with keeping the bills down if the electronics are using power when you’re not on them
Adjust Thermostat: Adjust the thermostat to a level that conserves energy but protects your home from extreme temperatures. When it is colder out and you leave, you want to leave your thermostat to a lower temperature (no lower than 50 degrees Fahrenheit or 10 degrees Celsius)
Turn Off Water Supply: Consider turning off the main water supply to prevent potential leaks or flooding. You can also install water leak sensors that sit under your sinks so if there is a leak, the alarms will go off and notify your phone.
Set Timers for Lights: Use timers or smart home devices to turn lights on and off, giving the appearance that someone is home. This is not only smart for security reasons, but also useful to save energy when no one is home.
Kitchen:
Dispose of Perishables: Throw away any perishable foods that might spoil while you’re away. Not only can this attract bugs, but it will leave an unpleasant smell when you return from your holiday getaway.
Take Out the Trash: Empty trash cans to avoid coming home to a bad smell.
Security Measures:
Inform Neighbors: Inform trusted neighbours or friends about your trip. They can keep an eye on your home and collect mail or packages. Consider even giving them a key to your home so they can check that the fridge and freezer are still working and that there are no water leaks that can cause damage.
Install Security Cameras: If you have security cameras, make sure they are in working order and consider activating a home security system. Security systems range in price from $300 to $1,500, depending on your needs and the size of your home. This will ensure that if any suspicious activity occurs while on your trip, your phone can be notified.
Secure Valuables: Lock away important documents and valuables in a safe. In the case that a break-in does occur, important documents and electronics will be locked so valuables and identification cannot be stolen. Smaller safes are around $175, while bigger and more secure ones are around $1,800.
Considering a move this winter? Give us a call today! Our experienced real estate agents are more than happy to help you along your exciting home-buying journey.
