Taking a well-deserved vacation should be a time of relaxation and enjoyment, not a time of worry about the safety and security of your home and valuables. High-net-worth individuals often face unique risks while away from home, but with careful planning and the proper precautions, you can vacation confidently. Here are some best practices to ensure peace of mind while away.
Secure Your Valuables
One of the first steps before leaving for an extended vacation is to secure your valuables. Consider moving high-value items such as jewelry from your home to a secure vault at a bank. This reduces the risk of theft and ensures your most precious belongings are safe.
Be Cautious with Social Media
While sharing your vacation experiences in real-time on social media might be tempting, it’s best to avoid posting about your travels until you return. Broadcasting your absence can make your home a target for burglars. Keep a low profile online and share your memories once you’re back.
Maintain a Low Profile Abroad
Keeping a low profile is essential when travelling to avoid drawing unwanted attention. Use secure and discreet transportation services, such as professional chauffeurs, to minimize the risk of targeted attacks and enhance your safety.
Prevent Water Damage
Shut off the main water supply and drain the pipes before you leave to prevent any potential water damage from burst pipes. This is especially important in the winter when pipes are more likely to freeze and rupture.
A burst pipe can cause significant damage to your home, especially if it goes unnoticed for an extended period. Installing water leak detectors can alert you to any leaks, allowing you to address the issue promptly. Additionally, consider shutting off the main water supply and draining the pipes before you leave to prevent any potential ruptures.
Monitor Home Temperature
Some home security providers offer temperature monitoring services. These systems can notify you if the temperature in your home drops suddenly or reaches a certain threshold, similar to how they alert you to a break-in. This can help prevent issues such as frozen pipes in the winter.
Keep an Inventory of Your Belongings
In the unfortunate event of a burglary, having a detailed inventory of your belongings can be invaluable. Take pictures of high-value items and keep a record of their descriptions and serial numbers. This will make filing an insurance claim easier and help you recover your losses.
Ensure Adequate Insurance Coverage
If you own high-value items like jewelry or art, ensure you have a Valuable Articles endorsement on your insurance policy. This provides additional coverage beyond the standard homeowner’s policy and ensures that your valuables are adequately protected.
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Adjust Vehicle Coverage
If you will be away for an extended period, such as snowbirds who spend winters in warmer climates, consider removing road coverage on your vehicles. This can save you money on insurance premiums while your car is not in use.
Arrange for Regular Home Check-Ins
Have a trusted friend, family member, or professional service check in on your home every few days. They can ensure everything is in order, water plants, collect mail, and handle any unexpected issues that may arise.
Install Anti-Theft Systems in Your Car
Installing an immobilizer or TAG anti-theft system in your car can deter thieves and protect your vehicle while you’re away. These systems make it more difficult for thieves to steal your car, providing an added layer of security.
Maintain Your Home’s Appearance
To avoid making it obvious that you’re away, take steps to maintain your home’s appearance. Have someone shovel your driveway, collect your mail, and water your plants. This creates the impression that someone is home and deters potential burglars.
Prepare Your Home for Your Absence
Before you leave, make a checklist of tasks to ensure your home is ready for your absence. This should include:
- Shutting off the main water supply and draining pipes
- Keeping the house heated properly in the winter
- Throwing away food that may spoil
- Emptying trash cans
- Ensuring the oven and stove are turned off
- Checking that all windows and doors are locked
Next steps
By following these best practices, you can enjoy your vacation with the confidence that your home and valuables are secure.
Talking to an experienced insurance broker like Cowan Private Client can also provide peace of mind, allowing you to relax and enjoy your time away fully. Our wealth of knowledge and experience enables us to build the insurance solutions that best match your unique needs and risk tolerance, protecting what makes your life remarkable.
Safe travels!
