Blog
Lock up and leave
Tuesday, July 9, 2019
Whether it’s just while you are on holiday or if you plan to be away for a longer period, there are many ways to make your property easier to lock up and leave, knowing that your home and possessions are safe and secure. Here are some tips for keeping your property “as safe as houses” and giving your home added appeal in the process.
Simple security updates can be inexpensive and may even save you money in the long run. For example, by installing security measures that meet the relevant British Standard, you could reduce home insurance premiums by up to 5%.
• Make sure that external timber doors are secured with a mortice lock that meets British Standards
• If you have PVC-u or composite doors, consider upgrading the cylinder to the latest British Standard, Kitemarked model.
• Fit window locks to all ground floor windows and those that are accessible upstairs.
• Add motion-sensitive lighting above doors, garages and side gates. Lighting is vital for security and can be aesthetically pleasing too.
Smart security is increasingly popular with a range of gadgets/technology available to protect your home. Smart door locks can give you secure access via PIN code, key card, remote fob, or smartphone. You can track who comes and goes through your front door, while CCTV systems and IP cameras allow remote viewing of your property using a smartphone app.
If you’re away from home for any period, cancel mail deliveries or use a re-direct service for longer periods. Royal Mail's Keepsafe scheme will keep letters and parcels for up to 66 days and deliver on your return; £12.80 for 17 days. Use automatic timer-switches to turn lights and radios on or off to make your property appear occupied. Motion activated security lighting increases visibility for you and your guests but also acts as a great deterrent to thieves.
It’s a good idea not to share your holiday plans on social media until after the event - burglars use this information to target when your home will be left empty and vulnerable.
In the garden, if you don’t have a reciprocal arrangement for watering with a neighbour, consider installing a watering system to stop your plants from drying out in your absence (subject to any hosepipe ban!) Use watering spikes for indoor plants and move them away from hot window sills/conservatory to cooler parts of your home while you are away. Keep garden sheds containing bikes, mowers and tools securely locked and above all take out good home and contents insurance.
A well-timed online grocery shop scheduled for delivery once you are home will save a trip to the shops as soon as you’re back and allow the relaxed holiday spirit to last that little bit longer.
If you need advice on making your property safe and welcoming for potential buyers, contact your local Frost office. We’re happy to provide professional advice on what you can do to enhance your property’s appeal and how alterations may affect your property’s value if you are thinking of selling.
