Whether you’re planning a tropical getaway, or simply enjoying a weekend away from home, protecting your property should be part of your travel checklist. Today’s homeowners have more tools than ever to keep their property secure and minimize risks while they’re gone. A little planning before you leave can provide peace of mind and help prevent costly surprises upon your return.
Embrace Smart Home Technology
Smart home devices have revolutionized home security and monitoring. Video doorbells, exterior cameras, smart locks, motion sensors, and connected lighting systems allow homeowners to monitor and control their property from virtually anywhere.
Consider programming interior and exterior lights to turn on and off at varying times to create the appearance that someone is home. Smart thermostats can also help maintain appropriate temperatures while reducing energy costs and alerting you to unexpected system issues.
Many smart home platforms can send instant notifications if a door opens, motion is detected, or water leaks are discovered, allowing you to respond quickly before a small issue becomes a major problem.
Manage Mail and Package Deliveries
An overflowing mailbox or pile of packages on the front porch is one of the most obvious signs that a home is vacant. Before leaving, arrange for mail delivery to be temporarily suspended or ask a trusted neighbor, friend, or family member to collect your mail regularly.
For online orders, consider delaying shipments, utilizing secure package lockers, or scheduling deliveries for after your return. If frequent deliveries are expected, ask someone you trust to retrieve packages promptly and store them safely.
Invest in a Reliable Security System
A professionally monitored security system remains one of the most effective deterrents against burglary and unauthorized entry. Modern systems can include door and window sensors, glass-break detectors, surveillance cameras, and environmental monitoring for smoke, fire, carbon monoxide, and water leaks.
Before leaving, test your system to ensure all components are functioning properly. Verify emergency contacts are current and that monitoring services have your latest phone numbers and travel information.
For added protection, consider informing a trusted neighbor that you’ll be away so they can keep an eye on your property and report any unusual activity.
Review Your Insurance Coverage
Many homeowners assume their insurance policy automatically covers every situation that may occur while they’re away. However, certain policies contain provisions regarding extended vacancies or unoccupied homes.
Before traveling, review your homeowner’s insurance policy and speak with your insurance agent if you plan to be away for an extended period. Confirm your coverage limits, deductibles, and any vacancy-related requirements. It’s also a good time to document valuable possessions, update home inventories, and verify that your policy adequately reflects current replacement costs.
Taking photos or videos of your home’s condition before leaving can also provide valuable documentation should you ever need to file a claim.
Final Preparations Before You Leave
A few additional precautions can further protect your home:
- Shut off the main water supply if appropriate.
- Unplug non-essential electronics.
- Secure all doors, windows, and garage entrances.
- Trim landscaping to eliminate hiding spots near entry points.
- Arrange for lawn maintenance or snow removal if you’ll be gone for an extended period.
- Leave emergency contact information with a trusted neighbor or family member.
A secure home starts with preparation. By combining smart technology, proactive planning, strong security measures, and proper insurance coverage, homeowners can travel with confidence knowing their property is protected until they return.
Top Tech Tools for Protecting Your Home While You’re Away
These technology platforms and apps can help homeowners monitor and protect their property while away:
Smart Home & Security Platforms
- Google Nest (Smart thermostats, cameras, doorbells, smoke detectors, and mobile alerts)
- Ring (Video doorbells, floodlight cameras, package monitoring, and neighborhood alerts)
- Arlo Technologies (Wireless indoor and outdoor cameras with cloud recording)
- SimpliSafe (DIY security systems with professional monitoring options)
- ADT (Professionally monitored security and smart home integration)
Smart Lock & Access Management
- Schlage (Smart locks with remote access)
- Yale (Temporary codes for house sitters, cleaners, or neighbors)
Water Leak & Home Monitoring
- Moen (Smart water shutoff systems that can detect leaks)
- Flo by Moen (Alerts homeowners to leaks and unusual water usage)
- Honeywell Home (Water leak detectors and environmental sensors)
Mail & Package Management
- United States Postal Service (Hold Mail service for extended trips)
- UPS My Choice (Track, reschedule, or redirect deliveries)
- FedEx Delivery Manager (Manage incoming packages remotely)
- Amazon (Amazon Locker pickup locations for secure package delivery)
Home Inventory & Insurance Documentation
- Encircle (Create a digital record of belongings for insurance claims)
- Sortly (Photo-based home inventory tracking)
Most major insurers also offer mobile apps for policy management, claims filing, and emergency assistance.
PRO TIP: Protect Today, Benefit Tomorrow
The best vacation souvenir is peace of mind. Put these smart tools to work so you can focus on making memories-not worrying about what’s happening back home. Reach out for more homeowner tips and resources. AnnMarie Kovacs Expert Contributor & Real Estate Associate Broker with Howards Hanna Rand Realty (201) 523-0603.
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