Lighting

• Consider installing exterior lighting with infra-red sensors. Fit timer switches to interior lights for use whilst the property is unoccupied.
  

Doors and windows

• Front and back doors should be fitted with a fivelever mortice deadlock, which conforms to at least BS3621. All other exterior doors should be fitted with bolts, top and bottom. On patio doors, additional locks should be fitted to stop the sliding frame from being lifted off the tracks.
  

Valuables

• Do not leave valuable items in sight and if unoccupied for lengthy period remove them completely from the property (Unoccupied property insurance often excludes cover for valuable items, including items made of precious metal and works of art). The remaining contents should be security marked with your postcode and house number/name. Then if it is stolen, it will be much easier to trace.
  

Alarms and keys

• Installing an alarm can deter an intruder. Alarms range from DIY – wire free alarms to wired alarms installed by alarm specialists.
  
  
• Never leave spare keys near the front door or in a ‘secret’ hiding place. Burglars know all the ‘secret’ places. Do not label keys in case they are lost. They might fall into the wrong hands!

Garages, sheds and outside areas

• Don’t forget to lock garages and sheds. These may contain tools ideal for breaking into your house. Keep ladders locked in a garage. Plant thorny hedges around the perimeter of your home or under windows, to act as a deterrent to would-be thieves.

Leaving a property? Going away? Have you?

• Cancelled the milk? Cancelled the papers? Closed and locked all windows and removed the keys? Hidden valuables? Or locked them in your safe? Installed timers on light switches?
  
  
• Told your neighbours? Why not ask a neighbour to park their car on your driveway whilst you are away? Or ask them to pick up the post and draw the curtains? This will make the house look lived in.

During the winter months prevent burst pipes

• If your property is unoccupied during the period from 1st November to 1st April, cover may be affected unless your central heating is in operation to maintain at all times a minimum temperature of 59 degrees Fahrenheit (15 degrees Centigrade) or the water is turned off at the mains and the water system drained. Check your policy wording carefully.

Subsidence

• The risk of problems caused by movement can be reduced by regular maintenance of water drainage systems and maintaining trees and bushes near to the property cutting them back to prevent excessive growth. If in doubt contact a tree surgeon.