Managing leaving house empty security relies on simple habits that reduce the chance of your property appearing vacant to others. A home that looks lived in is rarely a target, so focus on small details that disrupt the appearance of being away for days or weeks at a time.
Never post travel plans on social media as this is the primary way people inadvertently announce an empty house to strangers. Do not check in at the airport, upload holiday photos, or share dates you will be away until you have safely returned home.
Walk around your home before you leave to check that all secondary entry points are secured properly. Garages and sheds often have weaker locks that are easily bypassed, so check these thoroughly and keep anything of value locked away inside. If you have a side gate, use a sturdy padlock and check that the hinges are secure rather than just held in place by screws that can be unscrewed.
Check your window locks are fully engaged and the keys are removed from the locks. Leaving keys in locks creates a risk if someone can reach them through a window, so store them safely in a separate location. If you have any doors that feel stiff or difficult to close, address these issues well before your departure date.
Use plug-in timers for lamps in rooms that are visible from the street to create a natural cycle of light. Avoid putting lights in the hallway alone, as this suggests a hallway is being used while the rest of the house is pitch black. A radio on a timer can also create the sound of activity inside the home during the day.
Consider using smart bulbs that allow you to vary the time lights go on and off, which mimics a more realistic routine than a standard mechanical timer. Do not leave curtains fully closed during the day, as this is a clear sign that no one is home. Partially drawing them allows light in while still restricting the view into your living space.
Cancelled deliveries and piled-up post are immediate signs that a home is empty. Ask a neighbour to collect your post or use a redirection service if you are going to be away for a long period. Do not leave instructions for delivery drivers to hide parcels in obvious places, as this rarely protects them and often signals the house is unattended.
If you have a regular milk or newspaper delivery, ensure these are cancelled at least 48 hours before you leave. A single day of uncollected milk or papers can tell a passerby that your routine has changed. If you cannot stop the delivery, ask a friend to clear your porch every morning.
Keep high-value items out of sight from any windows or doors. If you have a home safe, make sure it is bolted down securely to the floor or wall, as a loose safe can be easily removed. If you do not have a safe, store smaller valuables in a place that is not immediately obvious to someone looking for a quick haul.
Take a few minutes to walk through each room and look at what is visible from the outside. If you can see a laptop or a tablet on a table, move it to a cupboard or drawer before you head out. Creating a tidy home environment reduces the appeal of the property to casual observers.
Your doors are the primary barrier against intrusion, so verify that your cylinders are robust and fully functional. If you notice any sticking, catching, or difficulty with your keys, consider a lock replacement before you leave. A lock that requires a jiggle to work is a lock that might eventually fail, potentially leaving you in a difficult position upon your return.
Check that your door handles are not loose and that the locking mechanism engages smoothly every time you turn the key. If your door requires you to pull or lift the handle to engage the bolts, ensure everyone in your household knows exactly how to do this correctly. A door that is only pulled shut but not locked is a major security risk.
If you find a lock is faulty, a key is worn, or you are concerned about the strength of your current door security, call SIDE on 07561 514895. We operate from 07:00 to 23:00, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday, and we can provide a fixed quote for any work before we start. We offer an honest arrival time when you call to discuss your needs. If you happen to be locked out of your home before you leave or upon your return, our team can assist with a simple lockout opening starting from £50.
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