A property does not become secure because one alarm, camera or lock is present. A sensible plan combines the requirements of the home-insurance policy, a consistent lock-up routine, reliable people, tested systems and a clear response if something changes while the occupier is away.
This guide is for ordinary preparation. Where there is a specific threat, a high-value or high-profile household, an extended vacancy or continuing contractor access, the plan may need a documented, site-specific assessment.
Step 1
Check the insurance position before making assumptions
Home-insurance policies can restrict cover or impose conditions when a property is unoccupied for a stated period. There is no safe universal number to rely on: the definition, notification point and required precautions are set by the individual policy.
The Association of British Insurers advises checking the policy wording and notes that many insurers expect to be told about longer vacancies, often around 30 days and sometimes 60 days. Requirements may include regular inspections or other precautions. Contact the insurer before departure if the absence could approach the policy limit, if building work is underway or if occupancy circumstances have changed.
Step 2
Use a documented departure routine
Doors, windows and boundaries
Close and lock accessible doors and windows; secure gates, garages, sheds and outbuildings; and put away ladders, tools or other items that could assist unauthorised entry.
Keys and valuables
Keep house and vehicle keys away from doors, windows and letterboxes. Store valuables and identifying documents out of sight, following insurer requirements for higher-value items.
Alarm, cameras and lighting
Test installed systems before departure, confirm notifications reach the correct people and use lighting timers sensibly. Do not publish alarm details, camera coverage or access arrangements.
Cheshire Constabulary recommends a consistent exit routine, locking doors and windows, securing outbuildings, setting the alarm and using trusted neighbours or timed lighting while away. See the official Cheshire Police checklist.
Step 3
Arrange trustworthy oversight without advertising the absence
Ask a trusted relative, neighbour or appointed property contact to deal with post, parcels, bins and visible changes. Agree what they should check, how often the insurance policy requires attendance, what they may authorise and who they should contact if they find damage or suspicious activity.
Avoid public social posts that disclose the property is empty. If contractors, cleaners, agents or other keyholders will attend, keep an up-to-date access list and remove access that is no longer required. Share detailed itineraries, access instructions and alarm information only through an appropriate private channel with people who genuinely need it.
For a longer absence, agree a simple inspection record. It should note the date, the person attending and whether anything required action, without circulating sensitive property information unnecessarily.
Step 4
Plan for faults, weather and access—not only burglary
A vacant-property plan should cover water leaks, loss of power or broadband, storm damage, heating or frost precautions, fire alarms and failed security equipment as relevant to the property and season. Follow the insurer’s conditions and the instructions of qualified installers or contractors.
Ensure the nominated contact can reach the right insurer, emergency contractor, alarm company or property representative. In an emergency or when a crime is in progress, call 999. For non-emergency police matters in England and Wales, use 101 or the relevant police force’s online reporting service.
Professional support
When a residential security assessment may be proportionate
Professional support may be worth considering where there is a known or credible concern, an extended or complex vacancy, high-value assets, continuing works and deliveries, multiple authorised visitors, or a need for accountable handovers and reporting. The appropriate service depends on the circumstances and should follow an assessment rather than a standard package.
Where work is a licensable security activity, check the individual operative’s appropriate SIA licence. The Approved Contractor Scheme is a separate voluntary company approval. Cobra Protection does not currently hold ACS approval and does not claim otherwise.
Read about our residential security service or use the UK private-security buyer’s checklist before requesting quotations.
Final departure checklist
- Insurance conditions checked and any required notification completed
- Doors, windows, gates and outbuildings checked and secured
- Keys, documents and valuables stored appropriately
- Alarm, cameras, detectors and notification contacts tested
- Post, parcels, bins and trusted visits arranged
- Only necessary people hold current access information
- Seasonal, utility and emergency-response arrangements confirmed
- No public post or message reveals the vacancy or security arrangements
General UK information only. It does not replace the terms of an insurance policy, police or emergency advice, a competent property inspection or a site-specific security assessment. No measure can guarantee that crime, loss or damage will not occur.