As a homeowner, it is important to protect your home, especially when it’s empty. Whether you’re going out of town for a few days or are leaving your home for an extended period, there are several steps you can take to ensure your property stays safe from burglars and other potential threats. In this article, we will discuss some expert tips for securing your empty home.
Install a Smart Lock
One of the easiest ways to protect your home is by installing a smart lock. Smart locks provide an added layer of security by enabling you to lock and unlock your doors with your smartphone or a keyless code. They can also detect when someone tries to break in and alert you via a mobile app. Here are some things to consider when choosing a smart lock:
- Compatibility: Make sure the smart lock is compatible with your door type and lock mechanism.
- Connectivity: Choose a smart lock that connects to Wi-Fi or Bluetooth for remote access.
- Security features: Look for a smart lock with security features such as tamper detection, auto-locking, and keypad lockouts.
- Battery life: Make sure the smart lock has a long battery life, so you don’t have to replace the batteries frequently.
Install a Security Camera
Installing a security camera is another great way to deter burglars and monitor your home while you’re away. Here are some tips to consider when choosing a security camera:
- Type of camera: Choose between wired, wireless or battery-powered security cameras.
- Field of view: Look for a camera with a wide-angle view to monitor more of your property.
- Night vision: Choose a camera with night vision capabilities to capture footage in low-light conditions.
- Storage: Choose a camera with cloud storage or local storage options, so you can access the footage later if needed.
Make Your Home Look Occupied
Another way to protect your empty home is by making it look occupied. Here are some tips:
- Use smart lights: Turn on and off your lights remotely using a smart light system.
- Have your mail collected: Ask a neighbor or friend to collect your mail or have the post office hold it.
- Use timed devices: Use timers to activate TVs, radios, and other electronic devices to give the impression someone is home.
- Park a car in the driveway: If possible, park a car in the driveway to give the impression someone is home.
Inspect the Property
Before leaving your home empty, it’s essential to inspect the property. Here are some things to consider:
- Lock all doors and windows: Double-check that all doors and windows are locked before leaving.
- Check for weak spots: Inspect the exterior of your home for any weak spots that could be exploited by burglars, such as a broken window or loose lock.
- Secure valuables: Store valuables in a safe or a secure location, so they are not easily accessible to burglars.
- Test alarms: Test the alarms, including smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors, to ensure they are functioning correctly.
Conclusion
Protecting your empty home is crucial for maintaining the safety and security of your property. By installing a smart lock, security camera, making your home look occupied, and inspecting the property, you can prevent potential break-ins and feel confident that your home is secure while you’re away. Following these expert tips will help you safeguard your home and give you peace of mind, so you can enjoy your time away without worry.
FAQs
Sure, here are three popular FAQs with answers:
1) Q: What are some basic steps to secure my empty home?
A: Firstly, make sure all doors and windows are locked securely. Consider installing deadbolts and security bars. You can also install a home security system and/or smart home devices such as smart locks and cameras that allow remote access and monitoring. Don’t forget to also secure your perimeter with motion-sensor lights or a fence.
2) Q: How can I make my home look occupied to deter burglars?
A: One way is to install smart lighting systems that can be programmed to turn on and off at specific times or controlled remotely. You can also have your mail and package deliveries suspended or arrange for a trusted neighbor to collect them. Avoid leaving valuables visible through windows or in plain sight, and consider leaving a car parked in the driveway.
3) Q: What should I do if my home is broken into while I’m away?
A: Firstly, do not enter the home or touch anything as it may disturb potential evidence. Contact the police immediately and report the break-in. Notify your insurance company, who may send an adjuster to assess the damage and the value of any stolen items. If you have a home security system with monitoring, they will likely have already notified the authorities.
