Many of us will take time off this summer and spend several weeks on holiday leaving our homes unattended. Unfortunately, while we are away disaster can strike with expensive consequences on our return. However, there are some simple precautions you can take to protect your home.
Protect Against Burglary:
Burglars and thieves are opportunists and will target the easiest homes. Homes with monitored alarms are far less likely to be broken into that a home without an alarm or a standard unmonitored alarm. The sight of a Phone Watch alarm box can be enough to deter thieves from targeting your home. Even dummy CCTV cameras can put thieves off.
Don't make it obvious that you are away. Have a neighbour or friend call by your house and take in leaflets and any deliveries which may be left outside. Also have them open and close blinds and leave different lights on. Don't forget to cancel the milk and egg deliveries.
Modern technology can make it very easy to protect your home. Devices such as Alexa, Google Home and smart light bulbs can be used to have lights and music come on and off at any time of the day or night.
Prevent From Leaks and Water Damage:
Leaks and water damage are a common issue for people returning from holidays. When we are home, the constant use of water from our main supply and tanks can keep hidden leaks at bay. However, when we are away, these leaks can build up and cause damage throughout your home.
The failure of ballcocks in attic tanks is a common problem. Whilst you are home, this issue will become evident as water will come out of your overflow pipe and you can have it fixed by a plumber. However, current water pressure often causes the tank to fill quicker than the overflow pipe can handle. If you are away, this can lead to the attic tank overflowing and causing extensive damage throughout your home.
If you are away for a week or two, it is best to have somebody call by your home and check that there are no issues. However, if you are away longer, we would suggest that you shut off the water at the mains to prevent excessive damage. If you are away for an extended period we would also suggest that your drain your water tanks and heating system.
Leaks of this type are so common and costly to Insurance companies that they will decline any Water Damage "occurring after Your Home has been Unoccupied for more than 35 consecutive days" (exert from RSA home insurance policy).
Your home is your most valuable asset and these are just a few steps you can take to ensure your home is protected when you are away. If you are unlucky and suffer any damage when you are away, remember to make a call to Bedford Loss Assessors before you call your Insurance Company. We are here to manage the claim and stress, and ensure you get the best settlement.
Conor Bedford
B.Eng, CIP
mob: 086-4561679
email: conor@bedfordclaims.ie
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