Keeping Homes Safe While Traveling

Travel plans can bring a welcome change of pace, whether you are headed across the country or simply away from home for a few days. Before you leave, taking time to prepare your property can help you focus on the trip rather than potential concerns at home.

An empty home may be more exposed to break-ins, plumbing leaks, and other unexpected issues. Fortunately, a few practical steps can reduce those risks and help protect the property while you are away.

Secure All Access Points Before Departure

Start with a complete check of every way someone could enter the home. It is easy to remember to lock the front door but overlook areas that are used less often when you are preparing to leave.

Walk the exterior of the property before your departure. Confirm that side doors, garage entries, gates, and ground-floor windows are closed and locked. A brief inspection can help eliminate avoidable access points for intruders.

Limit the Risk of Water Damage

Theft may be the first concern that comes to mind when a home will be vacant, but water damage can be equally disruptive and costly. Even a small leak can cause significant damage if it goes undetected for several days.

For longer trips, consider turning off the home’s main water supply. If that is not a practical option, disconnecting water lines connected to appliances such as the washing machine, dishwasher, and ice maker can still help reduce the chance of an unattended leak.

A few plumbing-related precautions before you travel may help ensure you return to your home rather than an extensive cleanup.

Create the Appearance of an Occupied Home

A property that remains dark night after night may indicate that no one is home. Making the home appear occupied can serve as a straightforward deterrent while you are away.

Set indoor lamps and exterior lights on timers to create a normal lighting routine during the evening. This modest investment can make the property look lived in without requiring someone to be present.

Establishing that routine can provide additional reassurance throughout your trip.

Ask a Trusted Neighbor to Check In

Technology can alert you to certain activity at home, but it cannot bring in deliveries, reposition a trash bin, or personally assess something that looks out of place.

Let a trusted neighbor know that you will be away. They can collect packages, return bins after collection day, and watch for unusual conditions, including storm-related damage or a light that has been left on unexpectedly.

Having someone nearby who is aware of your travel plans adds a valuable layer of protection if an issue arises.

Keep Mail and Deliveries From Accumulating

A full mailbox or several packages left at the front door can quickly reveal that a home has been unoccupied for an extended period.

Before leaving, arrange for mail to be held through the USPS Hold Mail service. If deliveries are expected, ask a trusted friend or neighbor to retrieve them until you return.

Managing these visible details helps the home maintain the appearance of regular activity during your time away.

Reduce Unnecessary Electrical Hazards

Before departing, unplug electronics and appliances that do not need to remain connected. This simple step can help reduce the risk of electrical issues while the home is vacant.

Countertop appliances, hair tools, chargers, and portable heaters are all good items to disconnect. Unplugging them can help limit potential hazards and leave you with one less concern during your trip.

Include a final electrical check in your departure walkthrough to make sure unnecessary items are powered down.

Preparation Supports Greater Peace of Mind

Time away should be spent relaxing and connecting with the people who matter most, not worrying about possible problems at home. Securing entry points, preparing plumbing, managing deliveries, and checking electrical items can meaningfully reduce common property risks.

For owners with broader real estate investment responsibilities, the same advance-planning mindset supports sound property management across residential and commercial real estate assets. Colliers helps clients make informed decisions about property performance, workplace needs, leasing services, and long-term real estate strategies.

Even thorough preparation cannot prevent every unexpected event. Reviewing your homeowners insurance coverage before you travel can help you understand how your property may be protected if a loss occurs. If you have questions about your current policy or would like to review your coverage before your next trip, contact our team.