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Travel Safely: Securing Your HOA Home During Vacation

Published Date

Family of four going on vacation walking out of front door with luggage and backpacks in hand.

Summertime is the perfect time for homeowners’ association (HOA) residents to leave the house and take an extended vacation. But going away for even a few days can make your property a prime target for break-ins, theft, and vandalism. Before flying out or hitting the road, homeowners should do everything possible to protect their property from unwanted visitors, stolen items, and damage. Learn how to secure your home before going on vacation using these HOA home safety tips to go away – and come back – with peace of mind.

1. Secure doors and valuables.

Double-checking that all doors are locked is one of the most important vacation safety tips for your home. Additionally, valuables should be hidden away or out of plain sight. It might sound like common sense, but it’s easy to overlook locks you don’t normally use. Even if you have an automatic garage door, install a simple deadbolt to put an extra roadblock to prevent it from being opened. Put a spare key inside if you usually keep it near the front door. Double-check the:

  • Front door

  • Back door

  • Garage door

  • Windows

  • Jewelry boxes

  • Safes

If you have jewelry or other valuables that you can’t bear to part with, invest in a safe and stash them there while enjoying your trip. Most intruders aim for an easy target, so simply making entry more difficult deters thieves. 

2. Reach out to your neighbors, friends, and community manager.

Ask a neighbor or trusted friend to stop by. Be sure to leave them with a house key and a copy of your itinerary if you need to be contacted. Have them visit the house occasionally to:

  • Collect your mail

  • Water plants

  • Run your A/C

  • Keep a vigilant eye on your property

Let your community manager know if someone will watch your house while you’re gone to avoid confusion or conflict. Either your manager or your community’s security patrol may even be able to keep a vigilant eye. That way, you can worry less and rest easy on vacation. 

3. Use timers.

A home that looks empty has a higher chance of being burglarized. While you’re away, use timers on your home systems and electronics to maintain the appearance of occupancy. Consider setting timers on:

  • Lights: indoor lights, outdoor lights, and lamps

  • Electronics: TVs, smart radios or speakers

  • Systems: sprinklers, thermostat

  • Fans

Using timers not only helps keep your house looking lived in, but also ensures a comfortable, well-lit return home. 

woman holding phone with lock on screen

4. Keep travel plans private.

A top tip in any home safety list for vacationers: Don’t share your vacation plans on social media, with strangers and acquaintances, or anyone else you might not trust. This tidbit of information can tip-off burglars to your whereabouts, your time away, and your home’s occupancy. Instead, save photos and stories for later. Relive the fun when you share the memories once you’re back at home!

5. Shut off your water.

A water emergency left unattended can significantly damage your home and belongings. Shut off the water to prevent an emergency maintenance request and remember to advise your community manager of your vacation plans, in case something does go wrong.

Related: Water Conservation Tips for Managed Communities

6.  Maintain the home’s landscaping.

When a property looks like it's not taken care of, it leaves your home open to trespassing and crime. What’s more, untreated lawns may violate your community’s landscaping rules. Check your governing documents to ensure you’re following all proper protocols and make an effort to keep your landscaping tidy while you’re away. Ideas include:

  • Trimming trees

  • Cutting grass

  • Tending to garden beds

7. Consider a home security system.

If you don’t have one installed already, consider purchasing a home security system that allows you to monitor your house while you’re not there. According to home security experts, 83% of thieves look for an alarm before the break-in, and 60% of them leave if they see one. Security features you’ll want to invest in:

  • Video doorbells
  • Security cameras
  • Keypad locks
  • Smart lightbulbs

Before buying, check your community’s governing documents to ensure you’re following the rules for owning and operating home safety devices. When used properly, these devices can not only make your home more secure, but also more efficient.

Related: HOA Guide to Installing & Using Security Cameras

Securing Your Home for Summer

Securing your home during summertime doesn’t just mean following these home safety tips to keep intruders away. Preventive maintenance can also do wonders to protect you and your home from damage and costly repair bills. Read our ebook, “10 HOA Maintenance Tips for a Safer Summer,” to learn what Associa OnCall Director Jamie Luke advises to keep pools, grills, and more safe for summer!