How to Keep Your Home Safe Whilst on Holiday

Going on holiday should be a time to relax. But leaving your home empty for a few days, or even a few weeks, can raise concerns.

Empty homes are more likely to be targeted by burglars or suffer unnoticed damage from leaks or storms.

The good news? A few easy steps can protect your home and give you peace of mind while you're away. Here’s how to keep your home safe while on holiday.

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1. Lock Up Properly

This might sound simple, but it’s easy to forget things when you’re rushing to leave.

• Check that all windows and doors are locked, including the upstairs ones.
• Don’t forget garages, sheds, and side entrances.
• Lock garden gates and fences where possible.
• Remove any spare keys from under doormats or plant pots.

Why? Locked doors and windows make it much harder for someone to get in. Most burglars look for easy access, so this simple step can stop them before they even try.

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2. Make Your Home Look Lived In

A house that looks empty is more likely to be targeted. To help your home appear lived in:

• Use timer switches to turn lights or radios on and off at normal times.
• Leave some curtains or blinds open (not fully drawn).
• Ask a friend or neighbour to move the post if it's visible, or put out the     bins.
• Park a car in the driveway if you can.

Why? These signs make it harder for someone to tell that no one’s home. If it looks like someone is in, burglars are far less likely to take the risk.

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3. Keep It Off Social Media

We all love to share photos, but it’s better to wait until you’re back.

• Avoid posting your travel dates or location online.
• Don’t share holiday photos while you’re still away.
• Remind your children or teenagers to do the same.

Why? Posting about your trip tells people that your home is empty — and that can invite the wrong kind of attention.

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4. Secure Valuables

Keep valuable items hidden from view.

• Store jewellery, cash, passports, and small electronics in a safe.
• If you don’t have a safe, hide them in less obvious places.
• Don’t leave laptops, handbags, or car keys by windows.

Why? If a burglar can see valuables from outside, your home becomes more tempting. Keeping items out of sight reduces the chances of a break-in.

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5. Be Smart With Security

Security measures can prevent trouble before it starts.

• Set your burglar alarm if you have one.
• Install motion sensor lights outside.
• Fit smart cameras or a video doorbell.
• Place visible signs or stickers that show your home is protected (e.g.     "CCTV in use").

Why? Most burglars will avoid homes that look hard to break into. Visible alarms, cameras, or even signs alone can be enough to make them move on.

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6. Insurance Matters

Before you go away, check your home insurance policy. Many policies only allow your home to be empty for a set number of days — often 30 days or less. This is known as the unoccupied period.

If you’re away for longer, your regular home insurance might not cover you. In this case, you may need unoccupied home insurance. This type of cover protects your home while no one is living in it, when it’s at higher risk from theft, leaks, or other damage.

Why? If something happens while you're away and you're not properly covered, your insurer may not pay out. Taking a few minutes to check your policy can save a lot of stress later.

At Got You Covered, we offer specialist home insurance for unoccupied homes, flood risks, listed buildings, and more.

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Conclusion

A secure home means a relaxing holiday. With just a few simple actions, you can protect your property and enjoy your time away without worry.

Here’s a quick reminder:

• Lock doors, windows, and gates.
• Make your home look lived in.
• Avoid posting holiday details online.
• Hide valuables.
• Use visible security.
• Check your insurance policy.

Not sure if your insurance covers unoccupied homes or long trips? Contact our friendly team at Got You Covered. We’ll help you find the proper protection so you can travel with confidence.

Call us today or get a home insurance quote.

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