Lock And Leave Checklist
Inside The House
- timers to turn on and off lights, tv’s, radios, etc, preferably at different times each day
- leave a generic message on your answering machine, don’t say you’re away
- don’t completely close up windows and curtains, it will appear abnormal
- remove anything of extreme value and put it in a safe place
- make sure your home insurance does not expire while you are away
- turn off the water-main and unplug any major appliances that do not need to be kept on
- turn your hot water tank off, it doesn’t need to heat water the whole time you are away
- turn down your thermostats for heat or check with your utility company for what to do for gas heat
- remove all perishable food from your refrigerator and cupboards, turn down refrigerator or empty it, unplug and prop door open
Exterior Of Your Home
- suspend your newspaper delivery, get someone to verify this has stopped
- have someone pick up your mail or have it held at the post office until you return
- ensure all doors and windows are locked, use the specific locks for sliding glass doors to prevent them from being lifted out of the track
- make sure your garage is securely locked, unplug your electric garage door opener
- have a neighbour occasionally park their car in your driveway if yours is gone, also have them put a bag of garbage by your curb on garbage day
- cut your lawn before you go, arrange to have someone cut it while you are gone if need be or sweep up leaves
- store all ladders and tools
Other Tips
- consider getting someone you trust to house sit, especially if you are going to be away for an extended time, make sure to inform neighbours and friends that you are having a person stay in your home to avoid misunderstandings
- give a neighbour a contact number to get in touch with you, ask them to keep an eye on your home and consider giving them a spare set of keys
- consider a home security system and motion sensor lights, some of the newest technology allows you to monitor the security system through your cellphone