Vacation time: Should roll shades be up or down?
Someone returning home from vacation and discovering a break-in has likely been away for a long time. Here are some things you can do to protect your home as much as possible before going on vacation.
Burglars prefer to break into homes or apartments when no one is there, for example, during vacation time. To minimize the chance of discovering your absence, ask neighbors to empty your mailbox regularly while you're away.
Additionally, do not leave any messages on your answering machine indicating your absence, and wait to post vacation photos on social media until after your return. According to the VdS Damage Prevention, a subsidiary of the German Insurance Association (GDV), this is recommended.
Do not attach address labels to luggage
Avoid listing your address on your profiles and do not post content that reveals your absence. Even a status update that you're at the bar around the corner can be an "invitation for burglars," according to the VdS Damage Prevention.
Do not attach visible address labels to your luggage when traveling. Burglars can easily read that your home may be empty for an extended period on train stations or at the airport.
Use timers for lights
It can also be sensible for neighbors or friends to lower and raise your roller shades during the day and turn on the interior lighting in your home during darkness, for example, when they're already watering the flowers or feeding the cat.
You can also use timers to simulate your presence by controlling the lighting in your home. For electric roller shades, you can usually program the opening and closing of the roller shades using a time switch. If you don't have these options, it's better to leave the roller shades open during your vacation instead of closing them completely. This is recommended by the Initiative K-Burglary.
It sounds simple, but it's easy to forget in a hurry: make sure all windows and doors are closed before you leave, including the attic door and basement windows and doors. And of course, if you have an alarm system, make sure it's activated. Valuables are best stored away from home during your vacation, for example, in a safety deposit box or a safe.
To further secure your home during vacation, consider hiring a reputable real estate agency to rent your property while you're away. This can help deter potential burglars, as they would assume someone is living there.
Unfortunately, even tenants can be involved in theft. Before renting out your property, conduct a thorough background check on potential tenants to minimize the risk of this happening.
Remember, it's not just your primary residence that needs protection. Vacation homes should also be secured properly to avoid any unnecessary disturbances or losses while you're away. A comprehensive vacation home insurance guide can provide valuable insights on how to do this effectively.
