Keeping Homes Safe While Traveling

Travel plans are exciting, whether you are visiting loved ones, taking a vacation, or simply spending a few days away from home. Before you leave, however, it is important to set aside time to prepare your property. A few practical steps can help you feel more comfortable while you are away.

An empty home may be more exposed to break-ins, unnoticed leaks, and other unexpected issues. Fortunately, home safety preparation does not need to be complicated. By addressing a few common risks before departure, Detroit-area homeowners can leave with greater peace of mind.

Secure Every Door, Window, and Entry

Locking up is one of the most important parts of protecting your home while traveling. It is easy to remember the front door, but less-used entry points can be forgotten when you are focused on getting out the door.

Before you leave, walk around the outside of your property and check all access points. Make sure side doors, garage doors, gates, and first-floor windows are closed and locked. That short final inspection can reduce opportunities for someone to enter your home while it is vacant.

Take Steps to Limit Water Damage

Theft may be the first concern that comes to mind when a home will be empty, but water damage can be just as serious. A minor leak left undetected for several days can turn into an expensive and disruptive problem.

If you will be gone for more than a few days, consider turning off the main water supply before your trip. If that is not a practical option, you may still be able to reduce risk by shutting off water to appliances such as the washing machine, dishwasher, and ice maker.

A little attention to your plumbing before you travel can help prevent you from returning to a cleanup instead of the home you expected.

Create the Appearance That Someone Is Home

A home that stays dark night after night can make it obvious that nobody is there. Making your property look lived in is a straightforward way to discourage unwanted attention.

Set indoor lamps and porch lights on timers to create a more natural pattern of light in the evening. Timers are an affordable way to make it appear as though someone is home without asking anyone to stay at the property.

This simple precaution can provide additional confidence while you are away.

Let a Trusted Neighbor Know Your Plans

Smart devices and alerts can be helpful, but they cannot bring in a delivery, move a garbage bin, or personally look into suspicious activity. Having a reliable person nearby remains an important part of preparing your home for travel.

Tell a trusted neighbor that you will be away and ask them to watch for anything unusual. They can collect packages, return bins after trash pickup, and notice concerns such as storm damage or a light that is unexpectedly on.

When someone close by knows your travel plans, they may be able to respond quickly if a problem develops while you are gone.

Keep Mail and Deliveries From Building Up

A full mailbox or packages left on a porch can quickly show that a house has been vacant. Taking care of deliveries is another simple way to help your home look occupied during your trip.

Arrange for mail to be held through the USPS Hold Mail service before you leave. If you expect packages, ask a friend or neighbor you trust to retrieve them until you are back.

Managing these small details helps maintain the appearance of an occupied home throughout your time away.

Unplug Unnecessary Electronics and Appliances

Before leaving, unplug electronics and appliances that do not need to stay connected. This is an easy step that can help reduce electrical concerns while the house is empty.

Countertop appliances, hair styling tools, chargers, and portable heaters should be unplugged before you go. In addition to reducing the risk of electrical problems, this quick task gives you one less worry during your trip.

Include a final electrical check in your walkthrough before you lock the door.

Prepare Your Home and Review Your Coverage

Travel should be an opportunity to relax and enjoy time with the people who matter to you, not a reason to worry about your property back home. Securing entry points, addressing water risks, managing mail, and asking a neighbor for help can all reduce common concerns for homeowners.

Even with thoughtful preparation, unexpected events can still occur. That is why it helps to understand the protection included with your homeowners insurance in Michigan. Family Auto Insurance Agency helps homeowners in Detroit and Downriver review property coverage in clear, approachable terms.

If you would like to discuss home insurance in Detroit, review your current homeowners policy, or request a property insurance quote in Michigan, contact Family Auto Insurance Agency at (313) 285-9042. Our local team is here to help you protect your home before your next trip.