Vacationing away from home brings excitement and relaxation, but it also raises concerns about the safety and security of your property. For Florida homeowners, these concerns are amplified by the unique challenges the local climate poses, including heat, hurricanes, and unpredictable weather patterns. Protecting your Florida home while you’re away requires thoughtful preparation and specific measures tailored to our unique environment. In this guide, we’ll explore seven essential tips to ensure your home remains safe and sound during your vacation, allowing you to enjoy your time away with peace of mind.
7 Best Tips to Protect Your Florida Home
- Prepare Your Home for Weather Challenges: Florida’s weather is known for its unpredictability, especially during hurricane season. Before your vacation, secure outdoor furniture, close hurricane shutters, and ensure proper drainage to prevent water damage. Consider installing storm-resistant windows and doors for long-term protection. If you have any minor leaks, address them before you leave. Under extreme conditions, they can quickly worsen and damage your home. Additionally, failing to take care of known issues might void parts of your insurance plan.
- Utilize Smart Home Technology: Embrace the power of technology to safeguard your Florida home. Smart home devices like app-based video surveillance, sensors, and intelligent locks allow remote monitoring. Receive real-time alerts for any suspicious activities and control systems from your smartphone. These tech-savvy solutions offer a modern approach to home security, providing convenience and peace of mind.
- Secure Water and Electrical Systems: Prevent potential disasters by securing water and electrical systems. Turn off the main water supply to avoid leaks, and unplug electronics to protect against surges. A water shut-off system can automatically detect leaks for extended vacations, providing an extra layer of protection. You may also save money by reducing the amount of ambient power draw your devices have when in standby mode.
- Make Your Home Appear Occupied: An unoccupied home can be a target for intruders. You can create the illusion of house occupancy by using timers for your lights, asking a neighbor to collect mail, or even hiring a house sitter. Subtle signs of activity can deter potential burglars, keeping your Florida home secure. Many smart home systems include features that aid in this endeavor, an additional reason to invest in those technologies.
- Install Additional Home Systems: In Florida’s intense heat, additional home systems can be a lifesaver. Consider investing in a backup generator to keep vital systems running during power outages. If your AC isn’t working and no one is home to fix the problem, high temperatures can lead to mold and interior structural damage. Water leak detection systems can also prevent water damage, especially during the humid summer months.
- Keep Your Travel Plans Private: While sharing vacation plans online is common, it can inadvertently signal an empty home. Keep travel details private and only inform trusted neighbors or friends. This selective sharing ensures that your Florida property remains under watchful eyes without broadcasting your absence. Deterring burglars only works when there is a sense of uncertainty regarding the occupancy of your home.
- Engage a Trusted Neighbor or Friend: Sometimes, the simplest solutions are the most effective. Engaging a trusted neighbor or friend to keep an eye on your home can add a personal touch to security. Whether collecting mail, watering plants, or making regular checks, this human connection offers reassurance.
Anderson & Associates Insurance Group provides comprehensive homeowner’s insurance in Sarasota and Manatee County. Contact us today to find a plan that meets your needs and helps protect the substantial investment you have in your house.
