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Vacation is one of summer's biggest delights. It can mean exploring different parts of the country or world to take in new cultures, or simply relaxing with your family. As a homeowner, though, the prospect of taking off for a week or two can be daunting. Here's how to properly plan ahead for your house and financial life for your summer trip.
Make Sure Insurance Is Up to Date
If something happens while you're away ─ such as a flood, theft, or storm damage ─ will your home and possessions be covered? Homeowners insurance typically covers damage from risks common in summer (such as hurricanes and fires). Be aware, though, that homeowners insurance typically does not cover flood risk. Another move: Update coverage to include any recent valuable or major purchases. Should something happen, you'll want to be sure you're as protected as possible.
Notify Police & Security
A security system is a great investment. But if you're not home, it can only do so much. Prior to packing your bags, let the security alarm company know that you will be out of town and that any activity is indicative of a problem. Leave contact numbers for yourself as well as for a trusted friend who can respond in case of an emergency. About 90% of burglars avoid homes with alarm systems. Such a system can help you stay vigilant even when you're away.
If you do not have a security system, feel free to report your upcoming absence to the local non-emergency telephone line for police. This can help them handle any security issues appropriately.
Notify Your Bank
Fraud protection is a major priority for most banks. If you fail to tell your financial institution about a change in location, you could face logistical issues. Many banks will flag transactions as fraud if they don't line up with your habits. International travel can even result in a temporary freeze of your accounts. To avoid any account problems, contact your bank with your travel plans, including the duration of your trip and the locations you plan to visit. Should a problem arise, you don't want to be left stranded with no way to access your money.
Arrange Housesitting
If you're going to be away from home for more than five days to a week, paying for a house sitter can be a benefit. Choosing a trusted friend or family member to check in on your home, water plants, or feed your pets can provide peace of mind. You can travel more comfortably knowing that someone is checking on the house and will be available should issues arise. Make sure the person you choose knows how to lock doors, disengage and engage alarm systems, and leave your property secure when entering and exiting.
Minimize Signs of Absence
Since most burglaries happen locally, it may be easier than you realize for criminals to notice that you're not home. A house that’s dark for days at a time and a buildup of mail or newspapers can be a sure sign that a house is empty. Such telltale signs can attract thieves. To deter against these common indications of absence, take precautions like setting your lights to a timer. You also can pause mail service and newspaper delivery.
Additionally, avoid talking about your absence to people you don't know. Social media posts about leaving, images of your family on vacation, or discussions of plans with coworkers should be kept to a minimum until you return. For longer trips, arrange lawn care services to keep your yard from looking neglected and overgrown.
Take Care of Home Safety
Trotting out the door with the lights on and the windows open isn't a great way to protect your home. Be sure to consider the following before you leave.
Make Sure Insurance Is Up to Date
If something happens while you're away ─ such as a flood, theft, or storm damage ─ will your home and possessions be covered? Homeowners insurance typically covers damage from risks common in summer (such as hurricanes and fires). Be aware, though, that homeowners insurance typically does not cover flood risk. Another move: Update coverage to include any recent valuable or major purchases. Should something happen, you'll want to be sure you're as protected as possible.
Notify Police & Security
A security system is a great investment. But if you're not home, it can only do so much. Prior to packing your bags, let the security alarm company know that you will be out of town and that any activity is indicative of a problem. Leave contact numbers for yourself as well as for a trusted friend who can respond in case of an emergency. About 90% of burglars avoid homes with alarm systems. Such a system can help you stay vigilant even when you're away.
If you do not have a security system, feel free to report your upcoming absence to the local non-emergency telephone line for police. This can help them handle any security issues appropriately.
Notify Your Bank
Fraud protection is a major priority for most banks. If you fail to tell your financial institution about a change in location, you could face logistical issues. Many banks will flag transactions as fraud if they don't line up with your habits. International travel can even result in a temporary freeze of your accounts. To avoid any account problems, contact your bank with your travel plans, including the duration of your trip and the locations you plan to visit. Should a problem arise, you don't want to be left stranded with no way to access your money.
Arrange Housesitting
If you're going to be away from home for more than five days to a week, paying for a house sitter can be a benefit. Choosing a trusted friend or family member to check in on your home, water plants, or feed your pets can provide peace of mind. You can travel more comfortably knowing that someone is checking on the house and will be available should issues arise. Make sure the person you choose knows how to lock doors, disengage and engage alarm systems, and leave your property secure when entering and exiting.
Minimize Signs of Absence
Since most burglaries happen locally, it may be easier than you realize for criminals to notice that you're not home. A house that’s dark for days at a time and a buildup of mail or newspapers can be a sure sign that a house is empty. Such telltale signs can attract thieves. To deter against these common indications of absence, take precautions like setting your lights to a timer. You also can pause mail service and newspaper delivery.
Additionally, avoid talking about your absence to people you don't know. Social media posts about leaving, images of your family on vacation, or discussions of plans with coworkers should be kept to a minimum until you return. For longer trips, arrange lawn care services to keep your yard from looking neglected and overgrown.
Take Care of Home Safety
Trotting out the door with the lights on and the windows open isn't a great way to protect your home. Be sure to consider the following before you leave.
- Lock all doors and windows.
- Turn off all electrical appliances and unplug anything not attached to a surge protector.
- Remove any hidden keys kept outside.
- Dispose of or consume perishable foods.
- Turn off or limit air conditioning.
- Store jewelry and other valuables in a safe or safe deposit box.
- Board pets or arrange pet-sitting services.
