Protect Your Home Before You Leave on Vacation

Vacations offer a much-needed break from daily routines, allowing you to relax and create wonderful memories. However, ensuring your home is secure while you're away is vital. At Arrow Insurance Agency, we want to help you safeguard your property, so you can enjoy your trip with peace of mind. Here are key steps to take before leaving your home unattended, which can also help prevent insurance claims.

Arrow Insurance Agency proudly serves Loganville, Alpharetta, Marietta, and the greater Atlanta area, offering a variety of insurance options, including homeowners, auto, life, and commercial insurance.

​Let’s explore practical advice to help you prepare your home for your next vacation.

1. Secure Your Home and Manage Deliveries

Ensuring your home is secure and managing deliveries effectively is the first step to protecting your property:

• Lock All Entry Points: Double-check that all doors and windows are locked, including less obvious entry points like garage doors, basement windows, and patio doors.
  
• Install a Security System: If you don’t have one, consider installing a security system. Modern systems often include remote monitoring via smartphones, providing added peace of mind.
  
• Use Light Timers: Set timers for your indoor and outdoor lights to create the illusion that someone is home. This simple measure can deter potential intruders.
  
• Inform Neighbors: Let a trusted neighbor know you'll be away. They can keep an eye on your property and report any suspicious activity.
  
• Hold Mail and Deliveries: Contact your local post office to put a hold on your mail delivery. Pause newspaper delivery and arrange for package collection by a neighbor or schedule deliveries for after you return.
  

2. Protect Against Water Damage

Water damage can be one of the most distressing issues to deal with upon returning from a vacation. Here are steps to prevent it:

• Inspect for Leaks: Check for any signs of leaks in your plumbing, water heater, and appliances. Address any issues before you leave.
  
• Shut Off Water Supply: Consider turning off the main water supply to your home. This can prevent major water damage if a pipe bursts.
  
• Install Water Sensors: Place water sensors near potential leak points. These devices can alert you to water issues even when you’re away.
  

3. Maintain Your Yard

An untidy yard can signal that no one is home, making it an attractive target for burglars. Keep your property looking well-maintained:

• Mow the Lawn: Mow your lawn before you leave and arrange for someone to mow it if you’re gone for an extended period.
  
• Trim Vegetation: Keep bushes and hedges trimmed to avoid providing potential intruders with places to hide.
  
• Water Plants: Set up a sprinkler system on a timer to ensure your plants are watered while you’re away.
  

4. Adjust Your Thermostat and Unplug Electronics

Properly managing your home's temperature and electrical devices can save you money and prevent potential hazards:

• Set the Thermostat: Adjust your thermostat to a temperature that conserves energy but still protects your home. In winter, keep it warm enough to prevent pipes from freezing. In summer, set it high enough to prevent excessive heat buildup.
  
• Use a Programmable Thermostat: If you have a programmable thermostat, set it to maintain appropriate temperatures during your absence.
  
• Unplug Non-Essential Electronics: Unplug items like TVs, computers, coffee makers, and other appliances that won’t be in use. This prevents electrical fires and saves energy.
  
• Use Surge Protectors: For electronics that remain plugged in, use surge protectors to safeguard against power surges.
  

5. Prepare for Emergencies and Financial Matters

Being prepared for emergencies and managing financial matters ensures you don’t return to unwelcome surprises:

• Leave Contact Information: Provide a trusted neighbor or friend with your contact information and details of your trip.
  
• Alarm System Checks: Ensure your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms are working correctly.
  
• Review Insurance Coverage: Check your homeowners insurance policy to confirm coverage for any potential incidents while you’re away.
  
• Pay Bills: Pay any upcoming bills to avoid late fees.
  
• Notify Your Bank: Inform your bank and credit card companies about your travel plans to prevent holds on your accounts due to suspicious activity.
  

6. Pet Care Arrangements and Tidy Up

Ensuring your pets are well cared for and your home is clean can make your return more pleasant:

• Arrange Pet Sitting: Hire a pet sitter or ask a friend or family member to look after your pets.
  
• Stock Up on Supplies: Ensure you have enough food, medication, and other supplies for the duration of your trip.
  
• Empty the Trash: Dispose of all trash to prevent unpleasant odors and pests.
  
  
  
• Clean the Kitchen: Clean out the fridge, run the dishwasher, and wipe down counters to avoid food-related issues.
  
• Laundry: Do your laundry before you leave so you don’t come home to piles of dirty clothes.
  

7. Vehicle Preparations and Plan for Return

If you’re leaving a car at home, ensure it’s secure and prepare for a smooth return:

• Garage Storage: If possible, store your car in the garage to protect it from the elements and potential theft.
  
• Car Cover: If you don’t have a garage, use a car cover to protect your vehicle.
  
• Check Fluids: Ensure your car’s fluids are topped off, and the battery is in good condition.
  
• Stock the Pantry: Have some non-perishable food items available for when you return.
  
• Spare Key: Leave a spare key with a trusted neighbor or friend in case of an emergency.
  
• First Day Back Essentials: Pack a small bag with essentials you’ll need for your first day back, such as toiletries and a change of clothes.
  

How Safeguarding Your Home Can Prevent Insurance Claims

Taking these preventative steps can significantly reduce the likelihood of needing to file an insurance claim. By securing your home, managing mail and deliveries, protecting against water damage, and maintaining your yard, you can avoid many common issues that lead to claims. Adjusting your thermostat, unplugging electronics, and preparing for emergencies can prevent fires and other damages. Proper pet care and financial preparations ensure that you don’t return to unexpected problems, and vehicle preparations keep your car safe. These measures not only protect your home but also help maintain your peace of mind.

Arrow Insurance Agency proudly serves Loganville, Alpharetta, Marietta, and the greater Atlanta area with a variety of insurance options, including homeowners insurance, auto, life, and commercial insurance. Contact us today to ensure your home and assets are well-protected.

Get Straight arrow insurance!

---

Zaheed Hussain
​​Owner/Licensed Agent

Our aim is to hit the bullseye every time when it comes to providing our clients with the best Georgia home insurance coverage available at the best value. We also provide many other coverages for auto, business, life, and health. 

​Phone: (770) 692-7500
Email: [email protected]
Loganville, GA