Holiday Property Care: Essential Tips to Keep Your Home Safe This Christmas

The Christmas season is a time to unwind, celebrate, and spend quality moments with loved ones. For many, it also means packing up and heading away for a few days, or even a few weeks! As a property management company, we’ve seen how a little preparation can prevent big headaches. Whether you're travelling or simply caught up in the festive rush, taking a few precautions can help ensure your property stays safe, secure, and well-maintained over the holidays.

Here are our top tips for protecting your home this Christmas:

1. Secure All Doors, Windows & Entry Points

Before you leave, take a moment to double-check every window, sliding door, side gate, and garage. It sounds simple, but during the bustle of last-minute packing, it’s something many people forget. Make sure:

• Deadbolts are fully engaged

• Security screens are locked

• Windows are latched properly

• Spare keys are stored indoors, not under the mat

If you have an alarm system, notify your monitoring service and ensure it's activated.

2. Set Smart Timers for Lights

A home that looks lived-in is less likely to attract unwanted attention. Consider using:

• Timer switches for indoor lamps

• Smart plugs to automate lighting

• Outdoor sensor lights to illuminate entries

This creates the impression that someone is home, even when you’re miles away.

3. Unplug Non-Essential Appliances

Electrical faults and power surges can happen when you least expect them. Before heading off:

• Switch off and unplug small appliances

• Turn off electric blankets, heaters, and festive lights

• Check that your smoke alarms are working

This helps reduce fire risk and lowers energy costs.

4. Fridge & Pantry Check

No one wants to return home to the smell of expired food. Before you leave:

• Clear out perishables

• Empty the bin and line it with a fresh bag

• If you're going away for an extended time, consider letting your fridge run on its lowest setting

A five-minute check now saves a big clean-up later.

5. Turn Off Water (If You're Away for a While)

Water damage is one of the most common and costly holiday disasters. If you’ll be gone for more than a few days, turn off your main water supply to prevent:

• Burst pipes

• Leaking taps

• Hot water system failures

You may also want to run your garden irrigation on a timer, especially in hot climates.

6. Adjust Heating & Cooling Systems

Before heading out:

• Set thermostats to an energy-efficient level

• Clear filters to prevent strain on your system

• Close blinds or curtains to stabilize indoor temperature

This protects your home and reduces energy usage.

7. Ask a Neighbour or Friend to Keep an Eye Out

A trusted neighbour can be one of your best security measures. Ask them to:

• Collect mail or parcels

• Put bins out and bring them back in

• Report any suspicious activity

If you have a property manager, let them know your travel dates as well.

8. Be Careful What You Post on Social Media

It’s tempting to share holiday snaps instantly—but announcing you're away can leave your property vulnerable. Consider posting your travel updates after you return.

9. Schedule Pre-Holiday Maintenance

A quick inspection can help avoid unnecessary issues. Check for:

• Leaks under sinks

• Dripping taps

• Faulty locks

• Overgrown gardens

• Loose roof tiles

• Gutters full of debris

If you’re a tenant, report any maintenance concerns to your property manager before you leave.

10. Don’t Forget Your Pets

If you're heading away, make arrangements early:

• Book kennels or a pet sitter

• Provide clear instructions for feeding, exercise, and any medications

• Ensure your yard is secure if someone will be checking on them at home

Happy pets make for a stress-free holiday!

With a little planning, you can enjoy your Christmas break knowing your home is well looked after. If you need support, advice, or holiday checks, our property management team is always here to help.

Have a wonderful, safe, and peaceful holiday season!