Think Your Home is Safe While You’re Away? Think Again and Read On

Planning a holiday should be exciting, not stressful. The last thing you want while relaxing on the beach or exploring a new city is to worry about what’s happening back home. Unfortunately, many break-ins occur when houses are left empty, making holiday periods a prime time for burglars.

The good news is that keeping your home safe doesn’t have to involve complicated systems or expensive upgrades. With a few smart, practical steps, you can make your property look lived in and much harder to target. To help you enjoy your time away with peace of mind, we’ve put together an easy home security checklist that covers everything from securing doors and windows to managing mail and even your social media.

Leaving Soon?

When holidays roll around, everyone’s thoughts turn to sun, relaxation, or adventure—not what might happen at home while you're away. Yet, the data shows that’s precisely when homes become vulnerable.

Travel Peace of Mind—Totally Worth It

Securing your home before heading off doesn’t require fancy gadgets or hefty upgrades. Simple, proactive steps—like setting timers on lights, pausing mail deliveries, or enlisting a neighbour—can drastically reduce your risk.

Here’s your quick glance summary:

Instant Holiday Security Snapshot

• 2.1% of Australian households broken into in FY 2023–24 (~217,600 homes)
• 16,594 burglaries recorded in WA in 2024
• Perth break-in rate: 1,687 per 100,000 residents—78% above WA average, 128% above national average

These figures underline one simple truth: a short checklist before you head off can save you a lot of worry later. With just a few steps, you’ll be able to truly enjoy your holiday.

The Ultimate Holiday Home Security Checklist

Before you lock the door and set off on your trip, run through this checklist to make sure your home is secure. Each step is simple but makes a big difference in reducing risk.

✅ Secure All Doors and Windows

Check every entry point, not just the front door. Many break-ins happen through back doors, side doors, or poorly locked windows. Consider adding deadbolts, reinforcing weak frames, and ensuring sliding doors have security bars or pins in place.

✅ Set Timers and Smart Lighting

A dark, empty house is an open invitation. Use timers for indoor lights, outdoor lights, or even the TV to create the illusion someone is home. Smart plugs or smart bulbs make it easy to control this remotely, even while you’re away.

✅ 3. Manage Mail and Deliveries

An overflowing letterbox or a stack of parcels screams “no one’s home.” Pause newspaper deliveries, redirect mail if you’ll be away for a while, or ask a trusted neighbour to collect your post and keep the front of your house looking lived in.

✅ 4. Ask a Neighbour or Friend for Help

Neighbours can be your best line of defence. A simple favour like parking their car in your driveway, bringing bins in and out, or checking around the property every few days helps disguise your absence.

✅ 5. Keep Valuables Out of Sight

Don’t leave jewellery, laptops, or gaming consoles in plain view of windows. Store them in a safe, or at least move them into cupboards. Even packaging left outside (like a new TV box) can alert burglars to what’s inside.

✅ 6. Be Smart About Social Media

It’s tempting to share holiday snaps in real time, but broadcasting your trip is like announcing your house is empty. Save the posts until you’re back, or keep them limited to close friends instead of public.

✅ 7. Secure Your Outdoor Areas

Lock sheds, garages, and gates. Burglars often use ladders, tools, or garden equipment left outside to break in. A tidy and locked-up yard makes it much harder for them.

✅ 8. Test Alarms and Security Cameras

If you already have an alarm or cameras, double-check they’re working properly before you leave. Replace batteries, check Wi-Fi connections, and confirm alerts go to your phone or monitoring service.

This practical checklist helps cover the basics most people overlook before heading away. Each action is quick to tick off, but together they create a strong layer of protection for your home.

Extra Tips for Holiday Peace of Mind

Once you’ve ticked off the basics, a few extra steps can give you even greater confidence while you’re away. These options aren’t always essential, but they can add another layer of security and reassurance.

🔔 Consider a Smart Doorbell

Smart doorbells with video and motion sensors let you see who’s at your front door in real time. Even when you’re overseas, you can answer deliveries, deter unwanted visitors, and give the impression you’re still at home.

📱 Use a Home Monitoring Service if Available

If you already have a security system installed, consider connecting it to a monitoring service. Professionals can respond to alerts when you’re away, contacting emergency services if something suspicious happens. It’s an extra safety net that keeps watch 24/7.

📑 Review Your Insurance Coverage Before Travelling

Before you go, take a quick look at your home and contents insurance policy. Make sure you’re covered for theft or damage while the property is unoccupied, and check whether there are conditions around how long you can be away. A small review now could save a lot of hassle later.

Final Word Before You Travel

Holidays should be about relaxing, not worrying whether your home is secure. By following this simple checklist and adding a few smart extras, you can make your property far less appealing to opportunistic thieves. A little preparation goes a long way in protecting your home, your valuables, and your peace of mind.

Stay Safe with Expert Advice

Looking for more ways to keep your property secure year-round? At Commercial Locksmiths Perth, we share practical security tips and trusted advice to help homeowners and businesses stay protected. Explore our latest resources or get in touch with our team for tailored guidance on locks, access control, and security systems.

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