The Easter break brings time for us to spend with our friends and family, or to take a break away.  If you’re travelling away from home this Easter, here are few steps to follow before you start:

Check your cover

If you are going to be away for a long time, check with your insurer that you will be covered. Will it be within the time frame shown in your policy wording? If your property is going to remain unoccupied for more than 30 consecutive days for example then you may not be covered in the event of a claim, but check as this time limit can be different for each insurer.

Lock-up

Make sure you lock-up before you go, there is an increased theft, attempted theft and malicious damage risk whenever your property is left unoccupied.  To reduce the risk of this ensure you have all working alarms in order and all windows and doors locked.

Security

If your property is going to be unoccupied for an extended period, to reduce the risk of theft and escape of water, you could get a neighbour or family member to check your property at least once a week internally and externally and remove any flyers or post. Cancel any deliveries you have regularly, for example milk and put your lights on timers if you have them. This will reduce the risk of burglary, but also escape of water, which is a high, frequent claim and when a property is vacant this can cause extensive damage if undiscovered.