Home Insurance Tips for Holiday Travelers

The holiday season is a time for joy and celebration, but it also brings unique challenges for homeowners planning to travel. Leaving your home unattended can increase the risk of theft, water damage and other unforeseen incidents. To ensure your peace of mind while you’re away, it’s crucial to take proactive steps to protect your property.

Tips to Keep Your Home Safe During Holiday Travel

The following are some essential home security and homeowners insurance tips to help keep your home safe and financially protected while you’re traveling:

• Review your policy. Before you leave, review your home insurance policy. Ensure it covers common holiday risks such as theft, fire and water damage. If you have valuable items, consider adding extra coverage for them.

• Inform your insurance provider. Let your insurance provider know about your travel plans. Some policies require notification if the home will be vacant for an extended period. This can also be a good time to update your contact information.

• Secure your home. Take steps to secure your home. Install deadbolts, security cameras and alarm systems. Make sure all windows and doors are locked. Consider using smart home devices to monitor your home remotely.

• Prevent water damage. Water damage is a common issue during the winter months. Turn off the main water supply if possible, or at least ensure pipes are insulated to prevent freezing. Check for any leaks and fix them before you leave.

• Manage your mail. A pile of mail can signal that no one is home. Arrange for a neighbor to collect your mail or put a hold on it through the postal service. This simple step can deter potential burglars.

• Unplug electronics. Unplug nonessential electronics to prevent electrical fires and save on energy costs. This includes appliances like toasters, coffee makers and televisions.

• Put lights on a timer. Use timers for your indoor and outdoor lights to make it look like someone is home, which can help prevent break-ins.

• Check your coverage limits. Ensure your coverage limits are adequate for your home’s value and contents. If you’ve made recent purchases or renovations, update your policy accordingly.

Learn More

Contact Farrell Insurance Agency to review your homeowners insurance policy before you travel.

This blog is intended for informational and educational use only. It is not exhaustive and should not be construed as legal advice. Please contact your insurance professional for further information.