How to Keep Your Vacation Home Safe When You’re Not There

18 January 2025

Owning a vacation home is a dream come true, isn’t it? It’s your little sanctuary – a getaway spot where you can kick back, relax, and take a break from the hustle and bustle of daily life. But here’s the deal: leaving your vacation home vacant for weeks or even months at a time can leave it vulnerable to theft, vandalism, or damage caused by natural elements.

So, what’s the trick to keeping your vacation home safe when you’re not around? Don’t stress – I’ve got you covered. In this guide, we’ll dive into actionable tips, practical advice, and clever strategies to give you peace of mind while you’re away.

Let’s jump right in!

1. Invest in a Smart Security System

Picture this: you’re lounging at home, a hundred miles away from your vacation house, but with just a tap on your phone, you can check in on it. Sounds great, right? That’s the beauty of smart security systems.

With modern technology, security systems today offer way more than just alarms. Features like 24/7 surveillance cameras, motion detectors, and remote monitoring turn you into an all-seeing protector of your property. Brands like Ring, SimpliSafe, or ADT even let you receive instant notifications if something’s amiss.

Plus, most smart systems integrate with voice assistants like Alexa or Google Assistant. How cool is that? If you’re serious about keeping your home safe, a smart security system is a must-have.

2. Don’t Make It Obvious That You’re Away

The biggest giveaway for burglars? A house that looks abandoned. Think about it – uncollected mail, an overgrown lawn, or lights that stay off every night scream, “Nobody’s home!”

To avoid this:
- Set up mail forwarding or ask a neighbor to collect it.
- Hire a landscaping service or ask someone to mow the lawn.
- Use smart lights to mimic daily activity. Set timers to turn lights on and off at different times, making it look like someone’s home.

Pro tip: If you live in a snowy area, arrange for snow removal from the driveway when you’re away during winter. An untouched layer of snow is like an “Open House” sign for intruders.

3. Reinforce Doors and Windows

Let’s face it: doors and windows are the main entry points for burglars. If they’re not secure, you might as well leave an invitation! Strengthen them to make your home a less attractive target.

Here’s what you can do:
- Install deadbolt locks on all exterior doors.
- Use window locks or reinforce the glass with shatterproof film.
- Consider security bars for sliding doors or windows.
- Install a peephole or smart doorbell camera.

For an extra layer of protection, go for reinforced steel doors. Sure, it’s an upfront expense, but it’s worth it for the long-term safety.

4. Set Up Motion-Activated Lights

The last thing a burglar wants is to be caught in the spotlight – literally. Install motion-activated lights around your property, especially near entrances, pathways, and the backyard.

These lights don’t just scare away intruders; they also make the area safer for any neighbors or friends you’ve asked to check in on the house. Look for solar-powered options to save on electricity bills and keep the lights functional even during power outages.

5. Build Relationships with Your Neighbors

Good neighbors are worth their weight in gold, especially when it comes to keeping an eye on your property. Don’t underestimate the power of community.

Introduce yourself to your neighbors and let them know your vacation home schedule. Ask if they’d be willing to report anything unusual, like unfamiliar vehicles or suspicious activity.

Some neighborhoods even have watch groups or online forums where residents share updates. Get involved – knowing your home is part of a strong, connected community can provide extra reassurance.

6. Install a Reliable Alarm System

There’s nothing wrong with going old-school! A good, reliable alarm system can deter burglars before they even step inside.

Make sure you choose one with loud sirens and direct connections to local authorities or security companies. If someone tries to break in, the noise alone is enough to send most intruders running.

Want to go the extra mile? Post visible stickers or signs from your alarm company on doors and windows. Sometimes, just the idea of an active alarm is enough to stop troublemakers in their tracks.

7. Secure Valuables and Important Documents

Even with all the safety measures in the world, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Store valuables like jewelry, cash, or important documents in a fireproof, waterproof safe.

Alternatively, take them with you when you leave the property, especially if they hold sentimental value. Another pro tip? Avoid leaving flashy items like electronics or expensive appliances visible from windows. Out of sight, out of mind.

8. Consider Professional Property Management Services

If you’re not around often, hiring a property management company could be a game-changer. These professionals take care of everything – from routine maintenance and landscaping to conducting regular security checks.

Sure, this option comes with a cost, but the convenience and peace of mind are worth every penny. Plus, they can spot potential issues early, saving you from costly repairs down the line.

9. Turn Off and Drain Water Systems

Burst pipes or water leaks can cause a whole lot of trouble when you’re not there to address them. Before leaving for an extended period, consider these steps:
- Turn off the main water supply.
- Drain pipes and water heaters to prevent freezing during winter.
- Install leak detectors that send alerts to your phone if they sense water where it shouldn’t be.

This small step can save you from big headaches – and even bigger repair bills.

10. Protect Your Home from Natural Disasters

Mother Nature can be unpredictable, so it’s better to prepare for the worst. If your vacation home is in an area prone to hurricanes, wildfires, or floods, take these precautions:
- Install storm shutters or impact-resistant windows.
- Keep sandbags stocked for flood-prone areas.
- Use non-flammable materials for landscaping if you’re in wildfire zones.

Don’t forget to review your homeowner’s insurance policy to ensure you’re covered for natural disasters specific to your area.

11. Keep a Backup Power Source

Power outages can knock off your security system, leaving your home defenseless. A backup generator keeps essential systems like your cameras, alarms, and refrigerators running during an outage.

Solar-powered options are eco-friendly and reliable. Just make sure you test the generator regularly to ensure it’s ready when you need it.

12. Use GPS Trackers for High-Value Items

Here’s a nifty trick: attach GPS trackers to valuable items like bikes, outdoor furniture, or even expensive equipment. If someone decides to get sticky fingers, you have a better chance of recovering your belongings.

Plus, some trackers notify you when they’re moved unexpectedly – giving you time to act.

13. Leverage Vacation Rental Platforms

Renting out your property when you’re not using it can serve a dual purpose – earning extra income and ensuring someone is there to keep an eye on your home. Platforms like Airbnb or Vrbo make the process straightforward.

Just make sure to vet your renters properly and consider hiring a local co-host or property manager for added oversight.

Final Thoughts

Let’s be honest – nobody wants to spend their vacation worrying about their second home. The good news is, with the right precautions in place, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing your property is safe and sound.

Whether it’s installing smart security systems, building relationships with neighbors, or simply keeping your property looking lived-in, a little effort goes a long way.

So the next time you leave your vacation home behind, you can focus on creating memories, not stressing over what’s happening back there.