Imagine returning home from vacation to discover your home has been broken into. Whether you file a Washington homeowners insurance claim or replace stolen property yourself, dealing with a home theft is costly and time consuming. Here are some tips to help secure your home and property while you're away.
Home Security Check
Contact local law enforcement to see if they offer home security evaluations.
Central Burglar Alarm
Not only does an alarm provide home protection, you’ll receive a discount on your Washington homeowners insurance. The discount varies per company but the average central alarm discount on a Washington homeowners policy is 10-15%.
Beef Up Your Door & Window Locks
Don’t cut corners on your locks. Make sure door and window locks are visible and consult a professional locksmith for recommendations on the sturdiest, highest quality locks.
Hire A House Sitter
Hire someone to stay at your home while you’re away. An occupied home is a theft deterrent and it’s helpful to have someone retrieve your mail and paper. A weeks’ worth of uncollected mail and newspapers is a big signal you’re not home. If a house sitter isn't an option place interior lights on a timer rather than leaving them on and make arrangements for someone to collect your mail.
Remember the Exterior
The exterior of your home should be well lit at night. If you install motion censored lighting be sure it’s placed in multiple areas in ways that provide optimum lighting angles. Trim or remove any overgrown vegetation like trees or bushes that hide doors or windows and give a burglar a hidden access point to your home. Securely store ladders or patio furniture to eliminate ways a burglar could access second story windows. Have pet doors in your home? Be sure these are locked and secured as well.
Secure Valuables & Garage Door Opener
Keep valuables such as jewelry and cash in a fire proof safe secured so it can’t be removed from your home. Make sure valuables are scheduled under your Washington homeowners insurance policy to ensure correct replacement value. Never leave your garage door opener in the car as thieves will have easy garage access if they break into a vehicle and obtain a garage door opener.
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