Leaving a property vacant comes with its own set of challenges. Whether it’s waiting for a sale, rental, or just transitioning between homes, taking steps to maintain and protect your vacant property is crucial. This guide provides essential tips to ensure your property stays safe and in good condition during its vacant period.
Secure All Entry Points
The first step in protecting your vacant property is to secure all entry points. Ensure that all doors and windows are locked. Consider installing deadbolts and security bars for added protection. You might also want to invest in high-quality locks for any gates or fences around the property. Solid door and window locks can significantly prevent break-ins. Always double-check that all locks function correctly and replace worn-out or damaged ones.
Maintain the Exterior
An overgrown lawn or an untended garden indicates a property is vacant. Regularly mow the lawn, trim bushes, and clear any debris. That keeps the property looking presentable and helps avoid attracting unwanted attention.
Also, ensure your sprinkler system functions correctly to keep the landscaping healthy. If you don’t have the time to do this yourself, consider hiring a landscaping service. Keeping the exterior maintained, including a well-operating sprinkler system, makes the property look lived-in and cared for, which can discourage potential vandals or burglars. It’s also a good idea to clean gutters and remove any leaves or debris that can accumulate and cause damage over time.
Install a Security System in Your Vacant Property
A security system can be a great deterrent for potential intruders. Modern systems offer features such as cameras, motion detectors, and alarms that you can monitor remotely. Installing a security system deters crime and provides peace of mind. Choose a system that fits your budget and needs, whether a basic alarm or a sophisticated setup with 24/7 monitoring. With technological advancements, many systems now allow you to monitor your property from your smartphone, giving you real-time updates and alerts.
Keep Utilities Connected
While you might be tempted to disconnect utilities to save money, keeping them running is better. Having electricity allows you to use lights on timers, giving the appearance that someone is home. Keeping the heating system running can prevent issues such as frozen pipes during colder months. Maintaining a minimum heat level can prevent significant damage if your property is in a particularly cold area. In addition, occasionally keeping water running helps to avoid stagnant water issues in pipes, which can lead to unpleasant odors or even health hazards.
Plan for Maintenance During the Move
When preparing for a move, choosing a reliable moving service is essential, especially if your destination is Brooklyn. For instance, if you’re moving to your new residence in Brooklyn, it’s important to plan for the moving day and the regular maintenance of your vacant property. Hiring a trusted moving service in Brooklyn to handle it ensures that all your belongings are packed, loaded, and transported with the utmost care. Experienced movers can provide invaluable services such as furniture disassembly and reassembly, expert handling of fragile items, and efficient loading techniques that maximize space and minimize the risk of damage.
Also, working with a property manager who can make routine checks, repairs, and upkeep is advisable. That ensures that the property remains in good condition and prevents minor issues from becoming major ones. By wisely selecting your moving and maintenance services, you can focus on settling into your new Brooklyn home without worrying about the upkeep of your old one. Regular maintenance includes checking plumbing, electrical systems, and the property’s structural integrity, ensuring everything is maintained properly.
Set Up Timed Lighting
Timed lighting inside and outside the property can give the illusion that someone is living there. That is especially important during the evening and night hours. Timed lighting can be a simple yet effective way to enhance security. Set lights on and off at random intervals to mimic natural occupancy patterns. You can also use smart lighting systems to control the lights remotely. That deters potential intruders and makes the property look welcoming and well-maintained.
Perform Regular Inspections
Regularly inspect your vacant property for any signs of damage or unauthorized entry. Look for broken windows, water leaks, and other potential issues. Frequent visits can help you catch problems early and address them before they become more serious. It’s also wise to have a reliable plumber check the plumbing system periodically, ensuring there are no leaks or potential issues that could cause significant damage. Regular inspections, including plumbing checks, keep the property in good condition and prevent small problems from escalating into costly repairs.
Notify Neighbors and Local Authorities
Inform trusted neighbors and local authorities that the property will be vacant. Neighbors can watch for unusual activity, and local police can increase patrols in the area. Building a network of people aware of the situation adds an extra layer of security. Providing your contact information to neighbors and authorities ensures they can reach you quickly if any issues arise. Establishing good relationships with those around your property is valuable in maintaining security.
Secure Valuable Items
Remove any valuable items from your vacant property to avoid tempting thieves. If you can’t remove certain items, ensure they are stored securely and out of sight. That reduces the risk of theft and vandalism. Consider using a safe for smaller valuable items and ensuring that larger items are not visible through windows. Store valuable items at a different location until the property is occupied again. Minimizing visible temptations can significantly lower the risk of break-ins.
Winterize Your Property
If your vacant property is located in a region that experiences cold winters, it’s essential to winterize it to prevent damage. Drain all water pipes and shut off the main water supply to avoid burst pipes. Insulate any exposed pipes and consider using antifreeze in toilets and sinks. Ensure the heating system functions correctly and sets a low but safe temperature to prevent freezing. Winterizing your property protects it from potential weather-related damage, which can be costly and time-consuming to repair.
Ensuring the Security and Maintenance of Your Vacant Property Maintaining and protecting your vacant property is essential to prevent damage and deter crime. By following these tips, you can ensure that your property remains safe and in good condition, even when not occupied. Whether transitioning between homes or waiting for the right tenant or buyer, taking proactive steps will save you time, money, and stress. Secure your property, stay vigilant, and enjoy the peace of mind of knowing your investment is well-protected. Taking these steps ensures that your property remains in excellent condition and is ready for occupancy when the time comes.
