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10 Essential Safeguards Before You Lock Up and Leave
The countdown to your holiday is officially on, but before you close the door and switch on “vacation mode,” it’s worth taking a step back. Most holiday disasters don’t happen on the road; they happen back home. A burst pipe, a break-in, a forgotten alarm setting, all things that can turn a perfect getaway into a stressful return.
A little preparation now means peace of mind later. Here’s a fresh, practical checklist to make sure your home, valuables, and car stay protected while you’re away. And with your Origin Financial Advisor only a call away, you can travel with confidence.
- Make Your Home Look Lived-In
Burglars don’t take holidays. A house that looks obviously empty becomes an easy target. Rotate lights on timers, leave curtains in their usual positions, and ask someone to take out your bins or park in your driveway. Subtle signs of activity make a big difference.
- Give Your Security System Some Attention
Before you leave, do a full “security rehearsal.”
Test your alarm, check sensors, replace remote batteries, and confirm your security company has your correct contact details. An alarm that fails once can be all it takes.
- Stop Leaks Before They Start
Turn off your main water supply before going away. Burst pipes are one of the most expensive home disasters—and insurers often reject claims if a property was left unattended without precautions. A simple valve twist can save your floors, walls, and sanity.
- Protect Your Electronics
A lightning strike, a power surge, or a faulty appliance can spark a disaster.
Unplug anything you won’t be using, consoles, kettles, chargers, heaters, the works. This small action saves electricity and reduces fire risks significantly.
- Safeguard What Matters Most
Any item you’d be devastated to lose, lock it up or store it offsite.
Jewellery, passports, sentimental items, hard drives, and documents should go into a safe or safety-deposit facility. If you’re travelling with valuables, make sure your short-term insurance covers them beyond your front door.
- The Neighbourhood Network
A quick conversation with a trustworthy neighbour can offer more protection than any gadget. Ask them to keep an eye out for unusual activity. A simple “We’re away, please check in occasionally” can prevent or catch a problem early.
- Vehicle Check: Whether You’re Driving It or Not
Your car needs preparation, both for the journey and for staying behind.
If you’re travelling by road, give your vehicle a pre-trip inspection: fluids, tyres, brakes, battery. If it’s staying home, park it safely indoors or in a secure spot, remove valuables, and activate immobilisers or tracking systems.
- Review Your Insurance (Before It’s Too Late)
Most people only discover gaps in their cover after something happens.
Before your trip, check:
- Are your home contents adequately insured?
- Are you covered for theft, fire, or accidental damage while away?
- Does your policy include all the valuables you’re taking with you?
- Is your car cover up to date?
Keep your financial advisor’s emergency number saved in your phone and also use our Origin Assist facilities in case of emergencies. Holiday chaos is no time to search for paperwork.
- Strengthen Your Home’s Weak Spots
Look at your property the way an opportunistic criminal would.
Weak locks, overgrown hedges, broken motion lights, or unsecured outdoor furniture can all become vulnerabilities. A few small upgrades (a camera, a new lock, trimmed shrubs) can significantly uplift your security.
- Prepare for the Unexpected
Power outages, storms, or load-shedding can wreak havoc while you’re away.
Switch off your geyser, empty perishable food, secure outdoor items, and ensure your guttering and drainage are clear. Preventable damage is, well… preventable.
Travel Light. Travel Safe. Travel with Peace of Mind.
The best holidays are the ones where your only worry is deciding between the pool or the beach. With good planning and the right insurance cover, you can step away knowing that your home, car, and belongings are protected.
How Origin Financial Supports Your Holiday Plans
Origin Financial specialises in short-term insurance that shields your property and possessions during the times you’re not there to protect them. From home contents to vehicle cover, accidental damage to theft, we make sure every base is covered.
Let us review your policies before you travel, so your holiday stays a holiday.
Holiday emergencies happen when you least expect it. Don’t be caught off guard. In case of a holiday or after-hours crisis, contact our Origin Assist Emergency Line: 086 123 7873. Don’t let a crisis ruin your holiday plans.
