5 Ways to Protect Your Home While on Holiday

In the past year, many of us have spent more time at home than ever before, so it’s understandable if you want to share a few holiday snaps on social media. However, it’s important to remember that sharing your location online may make you a bigger target for thieves. Here are 5 ways to protect your home while on holiday!

Salman Haqqi, personal finance expert from money.co.uk said: “Always be mindful when sharing your holiday pictures and location on social media. It’s almost the same as walking down the street and telling everyone you’re not going to be home.

1. Watch What You Post Online

In general, it’s best to avoid sharing information about the outside of your house, where you live, or any defining features that could help a burglar locate your property. For new homeowners it may be tempting to post photos of your keys in front of your home, but it’s important to remember that people can replicate keys using these pictures.
It's also advisable to not post holiday pictures on social media in real time. Although it can be tempting to share every sunny moment and experience with your followers while you're travelling, try to wait until you've returned from your holiday before posting your vacation snaps! Although the online world is fantastic, it does enable people to know where you are and what you're doing, as well as giving potential intruders the assurance that your home is currently empty.
 

2. Make Your Home Look Lived In

Something as simple as putting your lights on a timer before you leave for a holiday will help keep up the illusion that someone’s inside your house.
 
If you can’t put your lights on a timer, consider asking a trusted neighbour to keep an eye on your property, or even asking a friend to park on your drive while you’re away.

3. Consider a Video Camera Doorbell

You can answer a video camera doorbell from anywhere, so again this helps to create the illusion that there’s someone at home. It might also help capture important video footage should the worst happen, so don’t forget to make sure it has power and is functioning properly before you go.

4. Ensure You Have Home Insurance

Regardless of where you go, make sure you have home insurance to cover you in case your home is burgled or damaged while you’re not there. Contents and building insurance can be bought separately but you’ll often find they’re cheaper when bought together. Building insurance usually protects the structure of your home and external fixtures like pipes against damage from bad weather, fire or theft.
 

5. Check What Your Contents Insurance Covers When You’re Away From Home

Some home insurance policies cover you for items when you’re away from the home. It’s worth checking with your insurance provider to find exactly what is covered. For example bikes, laptops and sunglasses may not automatically be insured so checking your policy before you go away is a must.