Moving out of your old home doesn’t always sync up perfectly with the arrival of the new occupants. If there’s a gap between tenants, whether it’s for days, weeks, or even months, ensuring the safety of your property becomes paramount. Vacant homes can unfortunately attract unwanted attention, making it essential to take proactive measures to protect your investment and maintain your peace of mind.
Studies show that vacant homes are often targets for criminal activity, with violent property crime increasing by approximately 19% in these circumstances. While this might sound alarming, there are practical steps you can take to minimize the risks without breaking the bank.
Moving Tips: Protect Your Home After Relocating
Here are some effective strategies to safeguard your vacant home:
Keep Utilities Running: While it might be tempting to cut off utilities to save money, maintaining essential services like electricity and heat is crucial. This helps prevent issues like burst pipes and creates the illusion of occupancy.
Lighting Matters: Invest in timer switches for lights both inside and outside the property. Illuminating your home deters criminal activity and gives the impression that someone is present.
Maintain Security Systems: If you have a security system installed, keep it active. It serves as both a deterrent and an immediate alert system for any suspicious activity.
Consider Dummy Cameras: If a full security system isn’t feasible, installing dummy cameras can still give the appearance of surveillance, potentially deterring would-be intruders.
Arrange Regular Check-Ins: Enlist the help of a trusted friend, family member, or professional service to periodically inspect the property after moving to Myrtle Beach. Their presence can deter criminal activity and ensure any issues are addressed promptly.
Curb Appeal Matters: Keep up with basic yard maintenance to avoid signaling that the property is vacant. Overgrown lawns and neglected exteriors can attract unwanted attention.
Review Insurance Coverage: Understand your insurance policy’s provisions regarding vacant properties. Consider purchasing additional coverage or endorsements to mitigate potential losses.
Prevent Other Hazards: Beyond security concerns, take precautions against common hazards like flooding, frozen pipes, and fires by inspecting and maintaining relevant systems.
Additional Steps to Enhance Security:
- Double-check all doors and windows to ensure they’re securely locked after moving from Myrtle Beach.
- Leave spare keys with trusted neighbors or friends for emergencies.
- Install motion-activated lights to deter nocturnal intruders.
- Remove valuable items from the property or consider staging with rented furnishings.
- Display signs indicating the presence of a security system to dissuade potential burglars.
- Keep contact information for a reliable handyman handy for quick repairs.
- Park a vehicle in the driveway periodically to give the impression of occupancy.
While there’s no one-size-fits-all solution, combining these measures can significantly reduce the likelihood of incidents during the period of vacancy. Remember, proactive planning is key to protecting your property investment.
In conclusion, whether you’re moving across town or across the country, ensuring the security of your vacant home is essential. By implementing these practical tips and staying vigilant, you can minimize risks and safeguard your property until new occupants arrive.
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Coastal Furniture Delivery & Moving
Myrtle Beach, SC 29579
843-855-1095
http://coastalmovingmb.com
Local Areas Served: Local Movers, Long Distance Movers, Residential Movers, Movers Myrtle Beach, Myrtle Beach, Carolina Forest, Surfside Beach, Socastee, North Myrtle Beach, Little River, Longs/Loris, Conway/Aynor
