Vacation Home Security

Living room with white arm chairs. Vacation home security is extra important since this second home isn't occupied year-round.

How do you keep your vacation home secure? Today’s latest technology makes monitoring and protecting your second home from afar more convenient than ever. Whether you’re heading north or south, follow these tips from Paul Davis of Greater MSP before and after your trip. 

How to Protect a Second Home 

Installing a monitored security system is the most effective means to secure your second home. Vacation home security cameras effectively prevent intrusions because most burglars skip over your property when they notice cameras installed. 

If someone tries to break in, home security systems use motion detectors that activate security cameras, record the activity, and immediately notify your smartphone, tablet, or desktop. You can call the authorities, even if you’re not in town!. 

Vacation home security cameras are especially worthwhile if you rent your property on Airbnb and VRBO. You’ll see how renters leave your space when they check out and take any necessary steps. 

Vacation Home Security Tips 

It doesn’t take much to leave your home unprotected. Follow these steps to reduce the chances of something happening to your home.

Lock It Up.

Surprisingly, the majority of household “break-ins” aren’t forced entries. Instead, criminals get in without any effort via unlocked doors and windows. Always remember to lock up before you go.

Keeping Up Appearances.

An empty home is more likely to be hit; let’s use lights to make it look lived-in. Make your house look occupied by setting timers on your interior and exterior lights. Modern timers are computerized, easy to program, and relatively inexpensive. Install motion-sensing lights near entry points and replace burnt-out light bulbs ASAP.

Suspend your newspaper subscription, mail service, dry-cleaning deliveries, etc.

Enlist Assistance. 

Some police departments offer vacation watch services that can help lower the risk of any issues. Police vehicles will drive past on a routine basis to ensure your home is okay. 

Eliminate That Hidden Key. 

Too many people have a spare key lying around, and burglars know it. Whether it’s hidden under a rock, above a light, or under a flowerpot, remove it from its “safe” spot. Entrust it with a friend or neighbor instead.

Add a Foreboding Sign.

If you saw a sign that said “Beware of Dog” or a bright red alarm system sticker, you’d think twice about approaching. You give burglars a reason to skip your home by posting these signs. Pro-tip: It doesn’t matter if you actually have these things. Go ahead and put the sign up! 

Get on the Same Page.

Go through the basic home safety rules with your household: locking your windows and doors at night, closing any garage doors, not opening the door for strangers, and learning your alarm system code. Ensure your home safety rules are displayed so that everyone, especially children, can see them.

Watch Your Social Media Usage.

Whether checking in at a concert or posting a pre-flight photo, people don’t realize they’re making themselves vulnerable when they post online. Resist the urge to share details of your life on social media and warn your children of the dangers their posts pose. If you just can’t resist sharing your adventures, have a friend or neighbor stop by while you’re away to make sure everything is in order.

Reduce Convenient Hiding Spots.

It’s simple for someone to duck down into tall hedges or hide behind a bush while they wait for you to leave your home. Don’t give them that opportunity. Keep entry points of your home free of plantings.


Lock Up Your Ladders.

Many of us leave our ladders lying around; they’re heavy and difficult to put away. However, a criminal can use a ladder to enter your home through a second-story entrance. The next time you feel too tired to put your ladder away for the night, think twice about leaving it unsecured.

Inform Those Who Need to Know.

Make sure your credit card company knows where you’ll be, so they track any fraudulent activity. Leave emergency contact info with a trusted neighbor so they can alert you to any strange occurrences. 

Time to Think Like a Criminal

The majority of home burglaries are planned. Criminals want to minimize their time inside by choosing easily-accessible targets.

Consider these facts:

  • There are nearly three burglaries per minute in the United States.
  • Thieves spend an average of one minute gaining entry and less than five minutes inside a house.
  • 62% of burglaries occur while it’s still light outside. 
  • Most burglaries occur on the first or ground floor.
  • The most common access areas are the rear, side, and garage doors.

Now, ask yourself the following questions about your home:

  • Can your windows be opened easily?
  • Do your exterior doors have deadbolts?
  • When was the last time you updated your garage door keypad code?
  • Does your landscaping allow a burglar to conceal themselves while attempting to get in?
  • Do you need to change any old or weak locks? 
  • Is your home well lit? Are lights high enough so that burglars can’t disable them?
  • Is your identity displayed outside your house?
  • Are your valuables secure? Documented? Out of sight?

Following this process will help make your home less attractive to thieves and significantly reduce your chances of becoming a target.

Other Vacation Considerations

Beyond burglaries, we also want to watch out for other potential hazards. Before you leave your home for an extended period, make sure you: 

  • Unplug small appliances and electrical devices.
  • Turn off water valves to the sink and appliances, including the dishwasher and washing machine.
  • Set the water heater to “vacation mode” so it doesn’t run as much and saves money.
  • Run your kitchen sink disposal with vinegar or lemon to remove foul scents.
  • Take out the trash and dispose of perishable food.

You Deserve a Chance to Unwind 

Hopefully, these vacation home security tips will allow you to fully relax this year. If you experience property damage from water, fire, mold, or storms, call Paul Davis of Greater MSP. Our professional team is available 24/7 for your restoration, reconstruction, and remodeling needs.

Learn more about what makes our team unique!