Our experienced team at GAP Homes understands that it can be difficult to travel with peace of mind when leaving your home unattended. To ensure peace of mind, homeowners should consider the duration of trip and the level of preparation needed. Inform trusted neighbours, friends, or family members about travel plans so they can keep an eye on your home.
Here are some practical tips to help keep your home safe and secure while you are away.
1. Install a reliable security system
Having a modern system with motion sensors, cameras, and remote monitoring offers excellent protection. It goes without saying that it should be turned on before you leave.
Any spare keys should be left with someone you trust and not placed near the door or close to the entrance of the property. In addition to this, ensure that all windows and doors are locked. If you also have a garage, ensure it is securely locked. At GAP Homes, we prioritise security for all our residents and ensure that our garages come with sensor lights and remote-controlled gates for added security.
2. Make your home looked lived in
Along with the security precautions homeowners can take to ensure their home is secure, there are steps that can be taken to create the appearance that someone is home at all times. It is recommended to use lighting timers or lighting control apps at different times throughout your trip. Of course, this can be done manually by a friend or family member who is house-sitting for you. The blinds can also be adjusted to ensure none of your valuables are exposed to outsiders.
Additionally, we also encourage homeowners to make arrangements to collect your mail to avoid build-up that signals no one is home.
3. Take extra care of your belongings
At GAP Homes, we highly recommend unplugging all non-essential appliances including TV, toaster, kettle, WiFi Modems and computers to prevent any fire hazards and simultaneously saving on energy costs. Ensure your indoor plants are well-watered by self-watering systems or by someone you trust.
4. Make a list of emergency contacts
Should anything happen while you are away, we recommend leaving a list of emergency contacts with someone you trust. This list should include numbers for local authorities, security system provider, and a trusted repair service.
5. Keep your travel details to yourself
It may seem harmless sharing vacation details with friends, acquaintances and strangers, before and during your trip, however, our experts at GAP Homes highly discourage this. Avoid sharing details of your location on social media as you would be telling potential intruders your home is unattended.
Following these tips will help you enjoy your vacation, knowing your home is secure. Check out our current developments for your chance to become a homeowner of one of these beautiful homes. Contact us today to schedule a viewing.
