Protecting a vacant home does not have to be a stressful task. Here are ways to secure the home and give you peace of mind.
Make it look occupied. Purchase timers for wall outlets and set lamps to turn on and off at various times. You can also set the DVR to turn on while recording movies and shows, making it look like someone is home watching TV. Additionally, it is a good idea to hire a lawn service to keep the grass from becoming overgrown and enticing burglars to enter the home.
Contact people you trust. Ask neighbors to watch the house, and give them numbers to call in case of an emergency. Also, make sure your local police department is aware no one will be at the house, and cancel all mail and newspaper deliveries.
Securely lock all doors and windows. The harder it is for vandals to enter, the less likely they will succeed in doing so. It also helps to have a security system installed.
Cover any area exposed to the outdoors. This includes doggy doors and chimney tops, through which birds and squirrels can enter. Attach square plywood to the area with screws.
Shut the main water valve. This is usually found on the front, street-facing side of the home. You should also drain all toilets and tanks by holding down the flush lever until the water is gone.
During winter months, pour antifreeze in toilets and sink traps to decrease their likelihood of freezing. Also, wrap the pipes under the sink and any that are exposed to the outside.
Turn the breakers off. Shut off all nonessential electrical circuit breakers to minimize the risk of electrical fires. It is a good idea to label the circuits with colored dots in order to distinguish the nonessential from the essential, like the security system and outdoor lighting.
Check your insurance policy. All policies have various limitations on vacant properties, so call your insurance agent and review your coverage today!
As always, Vargas & Vargas Insurance is here to help keep your home safe. If you have any questions on Home Owners Insurance policies, call and speak to a knowledgeable agent today at 877-550-0025.
