Planning a holiday is always exciting. From choosing destinations and booking accommodation to mapping out activities, the anticipation can be just as enjoyable as the trip itself. But before setting off, many homeowners overlook one vital detail: how safe is your property while you’re away?
Empty homes are prime targets for opportunistic burglars. Police reports show that burglary rates in London often spike during popular travel periods such as summer holidays and Christmas breaks. Burglars tend to look for the obvious signs of absence—piled-up mail, dark windows, or social media posts announcing a trip abroad.
The good news? With a little foresight, you can make your home a far less appealing target. Here are some practical, effective tips to keep your property secure while you enjoy your travels.
1. Be Mindful of Social Media
Posting holiday snaps in real time may seem harmless, but it can inadvertently broadcast to the world that your home is unoccupied. Consider delaying your posts until you return, or limit updates to private groups of close friends.
In addition, a trusted neighbour or friend can make your home look “lived in” by moving post, opening and closing curtains, or occasionally parking in your driveway. These small touches make a big difference.
2. Use Timers and Smart Tech
Light timers and smart plugs are simple, affordable tools that help create the illusion that someone is at home. Program lamps, radios, or TVs to switch on at varied times during the evening. Many smart systems allow randomised schedules, making it much harder for burglars to detect patterns.
3. Check Your Locks Before You Leave
Before locking up, take a moment to inspect doors, windows, and gates. Ensure all locks are in good working order and meet British Standard BS3621, which is often required for insurance compliance.
If you notice old, worn, or stiff locks, it’s wise to upgrade before you go. Local specialists such as Battersea Locksmith can provide a quick assessment and suggest reliable security improvements suitable for homes and flats across South West London. Taking action now prevents nasty surprises later.
4. Don’t Leave Spare Keys in Obvious Places
The classic hiding spots—under doormats, flowerpots, or bins—are the first places burglars check. If you need to grant access while away, it’s better to hand a spare key directly to someone you trust. For extra reassurance, consider fitting a secure key safe in a discreet location.
5. Layer Your Security
Locks are essential, but combining them with additional measures provides the strongest defence.
● CCTV or video doorbells: Monitor your home remotely and deter intruders.
● Alarm systems: Even a basic setup can discourage break-ins.
● Garden security: Motion-sensor lights and trimmed hedges remove hiding places.
When combined, these steps make your property far less attractive to opportunists.
6. Insurance & Documentation
Before travelling, double-check your insurance policy. Many insurers require specific security measures, such as five-lever mortice locks, to validate claims.
It’s also worth documenting valuables before you leave—photos of jewellery, laptops, or other high-value items can be invaluable in the event of a claim. Keep this list safe and separate from your home.
7. Make Security Routine
The best protection isn’t just about a pre-holiday checklist. Build simple security habits into your daily life: double-locking doors at night, closing windows when you leave, and avoiding leaving valuables in view. When these actions become second nature, leaving your home unattended for a week or two becomes far less risky.
Final Thoughts
Going on holiday should be a chance to relax, recharge, and experience something new—not a source of anxiety about what might be happening back home. By preparing ahead of time—checking your locks, upgrading where necessary, and building good security habits—you can travel with true peace of mind.
Whether you’re heading off for a weekend in the countryside or a long-haul adventure, taking these precautions ensures your home will be just as you left it when you return. And for Battersea residents, having access to trusted local support like Battersea Locksmith adds an extra layer of reassurance.
