The holiday season often sees an uptick in burglaries as homes fill up with gifts and occupants travel away. As a landlord, you can apply several practical measures to help protect your rental properties and tenants over the festive period.
Avoid Advertising Vacancies
Make sure rental vacancy listings or schedules are out of public view. Burglars can use visible calendars and online posts showing upcoming vacancies to target empty homes. Keep all occupancy plans private.
Secure Entry Points
Double-check that all external doors and windows are properly locked before leaving. Many break-ins occur through overlooked rear entryways. Removing outdoor furniture also limits access options criminals seek out.
Install Light Timers
Set indoor and outdoor lighting on random timers to give the appearance of occupancy. Just be sure to vary the on/off times instead of following a predictable daily pattern. Motion sensor lights also help deter trespassers.
Keep Valuables Out of Sight
Advise renters to store high-value items like gift boxes out of view from windows. Keeping window dressings shut also limits visibility into the property. The less visible the rewards, the less appeal for opportunistic thieves.
Avoid Risky Social Posts
Encourage tenant discretion when posting on social media about vacations and new gifts received. Such broadcasts notify followers when homes will be vacant, increasing vulnerability.
While no prevention tips are foolproof, vigilant landlords and renters can collaborate to apply multiple safeguards and minimize holiday theft risks. Let KPM Group know how else we can help keep your properties secure this Christmas season and into 2023.
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With over 20 years of experience across Ireland, KPM Group offers industry-leading property management and security guidance. Their experts stay current on the latest safety measures to protect client investments.
For comprehensive rental property management this holiday season and year-round, discover how KPM Group can apply proven best practices tailored to your needs.
