Owning a vacation home, whether a cozy cabin in the woods or a stylish beach house by the sea, can be an incredible way to escape the stresses of daily life. However, one of the challenges of having a second property is keeping it secure while you’re not around.
Since vacation homes are often vacant for extended periods, they can become prime targets for burglary, vandalism, or other forms of damage. The good news is that you can take straightforward steps to minimize risks and keep your getaway property safe and sound.
Here are some practical tips for securing your vacation home when you’re far away:
- Secure All Windows and Doors
It may seem obvious, but many vacation homes are broken into simply because windows or doors are left unlocked. In fact, nearly 40% of burglaries in the U.S. are “unforced” entries, meaning the intruders simply entered through an unlocked door or window.
Make sure all windows are properly shut and locked. If you have sliding doors, consider installing a security bar to prevent them from being easily opened. It’s also essential to check external structures like sheds or garages—these too should be locked. Even pet doors, which are often overlooked, should be securely fastened if accessible from the outside. - Install an Automated Home Security System
One of the most effective ways to protect your vacation home is by installing an automated home security system. Systems with motion-detecting lights around walkways, windows, and entryways can deter potential burglars who are unlikely to risk being seen. You can also use timers to turn on lights indoors, making it appear like someone is home. - Get to Know Your Neighbors
Building a good relationship with your neighbors is one of the best ways to keep an eye on your vacation home while you’re away. Neighbors can alert you to any suspicious activity, and a close-knit community is often less susceptible to crime. Before you leave, let a trusted neighbor know how to contact you in case of an emergency or if anything seems unusual. Also, ask them to collect mail, newspapers, or other deliveries that might pile up outside. An accumulation of such items can be a dead giveaway that no one is home. - Avoid Leaving a Spare Key in Obvious Places
It’s tempting to hide a spare key somewhere “safe”—like under the doormat, in a fake rock, or on top of a porch light. Unfortunately, these places are the first places thieves will check.
If you need to leave a spare key, consider giving it to a trusted neighbor or friend who lives nearby. Better yet, invest in keyless entry locks that control access via your smartphone, eliminating the need for physical keys. - Keep Good Records of Your Belongings
Taking inventory of the items in your vacation home is important in case anything is stolen or damaged. Create a list of valuable items, such as electronics or antiques, and record serial numbers where possible. Take photos or videos of these items to further help in recovery efforts if needed. This way, should the worst happen, you’ll have a detailed record of your belongings for insurance purposes. - Consider Having Insurance for Extra Protection
While these steps will help you secure your vacation home, it’s also important to ensure that your property is covered in case of damage, theft, or other unexpected events. Non-life insurance policies, such as property insurance, can provide coverage for your second home and the belongings inside.
We offer comprehensive non-life insurance solutions tailored to your needs. Whether you’re looking to insure your vacation home or need help understanding your coverage options, we’re here to help.
By taking these simple precautions, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing that your vacation home is safe and secure, even when you’re not there. Don’t wait until something happens—act now to protect your property and ensure that your home is ready and waiting for you whenever you’re ready to relax.
If you need help with non-life insurance or have any questions about securing your vacation property, don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re here to help you safeguard what matters most!