How to protect your home while you’re away
When you’re in full holiday excitement mode, the last thing you want to think about is all the practical things. And why would you, when there’s beaches, exotic cities and delicious cocktails to dream about?
But nevertheless, preparing for any trip means covering all the boring stuff, like ensuring your home is safe and protected while you’re enjoying your holiday. With this in mind, we’ve put together the ultimate checklist for anyone wanting to make sure their home is looked after while they’re away.
1. Enlist a helper
Whether it’s a neighbour, friend or family member who lives nearby, ask someone you trust to keep an eye on your home and, if you’re gone for a while, check inside every now and then. They may even be willing to house-sit for you. You can also ask them to collect your mail to prevent it being stolen by fraudsters. If there’s no-one available, you can set up a mail hold at your local post office.
2. Turn everything off
TV, fridge, computer, oven… Anything that’s plugged in and switched on should be turned off and unplugged. Not only will it save on your electricity bills, but it’ll drastically reduce the risk of fire.
3. Insurance
Update your insurance policy to ensure it covers your property in the event of an emergency. Over60 Home & Contents Insurance provides comprehensive cover at competitive prices which can be tailored to suit your specific needs.
4. Be careful what you post
It’s natural to want to post photos and updates from your holiday to make everyone back home jealous, but doing so could make your home an attractive target for thieves, who are obviously much more likely to break in if they know the resident won’t be there. Instead, save the happy snaps for when you return.
5. Lock up and throw away the keys
Well, not literally. If you keep a spare key or two around the outside of your house, remember to remove them. Hide them somewhere safe or hand them to someone you trust, and lock up every door, window and exit point before you leave.
6. Install security equipment
This is a good rule of thumb whether or not you’re going away. These days, security cameras and alarms are much more affordable, and if you’ve got some fitted, you’ll drastically reduce your chances of experiencing a burglary.
With Over60 you can tailor your home insurance to suit various needs and budgets so you can enjoy the peace of mind in knowing that the things you hold near and dear are protected. Find out how you can get up to 30 per cent off^ Over60 Combined Home & Contents Insurance now.