Advice for when your are on holiday

Summer holidays are in full swing with people either travelling abroad or opting for a domestic break. To ensure your client’s holiday is memorable for all the right reasons, Aviva Private Clients have put together the following tips to help keep them and your homes protected.*

Manage social media. Posting about an upcoming holiday or posting pictures while being away, could give thieves the green light to check if a property is unoccupied which increases the chances of a burglary. It’s also important to brief children as they can be unaware of the pitfalls of providing details of upcoming holidays.

Set the alarm system. An approved intruder alarm is a good deterrent to would be thieves. Ensure the alarm is set when away, the key holder list is up to date, and the key holder is aware you're away. As well as the house being locked up and alarmed, ensure all outbuildings and garages are also appropriately locked and any expensive garden equipment/furniture is secured.

Install smart lights. An alternative to old-fashioned lights on timers, is to install smart lights. They can be triggered remotely via an app or scheduled to come on and off daily at set or random times to make things look a little less predictable.

Prevent water leaks. When the home is unoccupied there is a higher risk of water damage going unnoticed. If there’s daily attendance by a neighbour or staff this can reduce the risk. Another option would be to shut-off the water supply before leaving, or consider a water leak detection system which would automatically turn off the water supply in the event of an abnormal flow.

Unplug electrical appliances. Ensure electrical appliances and gadgets are unplugged and switched off at the wall. This will help prevent any power surges or the risk of overheating leading to fire.

Gives friends or a trusted neighbour keys to the property. To minimise the risks of a break in, give a trusted friend or neighbour access to the property so they can check in. They can open and close the curtains, collect mail, or even park their car in the drive to have the property look occupied.

Be aware of surroundings. It’s easy to relax and forget where you are when you’re on holiday, which can make you more vulnerable and an easier target. Advise your clients to keep a low profile and try to blend in to avoid attracting attention. If travelling with a group, advise that they’re never isolated or away from the group.

Storing valuables. The guest room safes provided by hotels only have limited security features so we recommend using the main hotel safe for any valuables taken on holiday.

Access to a mobile phone. Have the phone number of family and friends and emergency services in your destination country on speed dial.

Personal safety is most important. If confronted by criminals, agree to their demands as this will defuse the situation and avoid confrontation. We also recommend, once safe to do so, contacting the appropriate agencies for further help or support.

*This document contains general information and guidance only and may be superseded and/or subject to amendment without further notice. Aviva has no liability to any third parties arising out of this communication whatsoever, and nor shall any third party rely on them. Other than liability which cannot be excluded by law, Aviva shall not be liable to any person for any indirect, special, consequential, or other losses or damages of whatsoever kind arising out of access to, or use of, or reliance on anything contained in this communication. This document is not intended to cover every risk, exposure or hazard that may arise, and Aviva recommend that you obtain specific advice relevant to the circumstances.?

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