How to keep your home secure this holiday season – a lock-up-and-go checklist

According to the South African Police Service (SAPS), the South African summer holiday season sees an annual surge in crime as criminals take advantage of holidaymakers and homes being left empty as people take trips away. Between October and December 2024, SAPS data showed 6 259 reported residential robberies.

Commenting on this is Marius Kemp, head of Personal Underwriting at South Africa’s largest short-term insurer, Santam, who says that as the festive season approaches, many South Africans are gearing up to leave town for a well-deserved break. But he cautions people to take proactive steps before leaving, to make sure homes and precious assets left behind are safe. “It’s important to safeguard your home against burglaries and other damage,” says Kemp.

He shares key tips for homeowners to consider before locking up and heading off:

If you are using a house-sitter

Using a trusted house-sitter can be a valuable way to ensure peace-of-mind when you are away, as they can look after the house, pets, and even your plants. For those who plan to have someone watch over their home, Kemp says it’s essential to explain the expectations clearly and upfront to the house-sitter, and to ensure they understand what is expected in terms of security precautions.

He says that valuables, including personal documents, should be locked away securely. It's also crucial to clearly explain how to activate and deactivate the alarm system, including “stay” settings for night-time or when the sitter will be in the house. “Remind the house-sitter to secure all entrances when leaving the property and follow all security precautions,” says Kemp.

If you are renting out your home

Although renting out your home when you are away is a great way to recoup some of your holiday expenses, you must notify your insurer and check the policy conditions regarding renting out your property. “Many policies exclude cover for malicious damage or theft when your private residence is rented out, and the tenant or anyone linked or connected to the tenant is responsible for any damages or loss caused to your property,” says Kemp.

When locking up and leaving

Unfortunately, crime statistics from SAPS show that criminal activity tends to increase around the festive season, with many travellers letting their guard down and criminals taking advantage. “Criminals are sophisticated and watch houses to see when people are leaving to go on holiday.  If you’re going away without using a house-sitter, you must inform relevant parties that your house will be empty.

“Let your security company know and provide them with a contact number of a friend or family member in case your alarm goes off. Also, arrange for a reliable neighbour, friend or family member to regularly pop around to your house to make sure all is in order.”

If you won’t have anyone staying on your property this festive season and you’re planning to lock up and go, Kemp advises letting your security company know, as they may offer extra security during this period. “

The final checks before you leave

Before heading off, do a final sweep of your home to ensure that all windows, doors, and security gates are securely locked, and that your alarm system is functional. Ensure you switch off all your main lights, although leaving a side lamp on may deter opportunistic crime by making it look as if someone is home.

He also advises limiting information sharing about your trip to relevant people like your security company and neighbours. “It may be tempting to post on social media about your holiday plans but be mindful of what you share. Avoid advertising your absence online, as this could make your home a target for burglars,” warns Kemp.

Homeowners are also advised to switch off geysers and unplug non-essential electrical appliances to protect against power surges. “It is also worth checking if your insurer offers 24/7 emergency assistance for plumbing, electrical and locksmith requirements as well as repair work to essential appliances,” says Kemp.

Lastly, Kemp urges everyone to make suitable arrangements for their pets. “It’s been a long year, and you may be eager to get away, but please don’t forget your furry friends. If they can’t travel with you, be sure to arrange with a pet-sitter or kennel.”