What do renters need to keep in mind during holiday time?
It's the most wonderful time of the year! Family, friends, and colleagues are filled with cheer and ready to celebrate the festive season. Before you dive into the holiday period, here are some holiday tips for renters.
Contact your property manager if you are heading out of town
It’s a great idea to let your property manager know if you are headed out of town and make sure they have updated contact information in the event of an emergency. It is also good to let neighbours know that you will be away so they can keep an eye on things for you.
Christmas crime uptick
Holidays are when burglars are on the lookout for empty homes. Here are a few ideas to ensure your property is not a target for thieves:
- Don’t post vacation pics in real-time. Clever criminals can stalk your accounts to see who is not home and then target them for break-ins.
- Break down boxes before you dispose of them so that it doesn’t give robbers clues of the expensive presents such as televisions and gaming systems that were under your tree.
- Make sure you place your tree strategically so that gifts underneath cannot be seen by passers-by.
- Double-check that window and door locks are in working order before you head out of town.
- Motion sensors and light timers can scare intruders away.
Alarms are always a good idea
Unfortunately, there is often an uptick in crime around the holidays. Adding a security alarm and/or cameras can make thieves think twice before they break in and damage doors, windows, and other items. Even fake cameras available from hardware stores can deter burglaries if they are easily visible. These additions may also lower your insurance costs.
Make sure you know your property manager’s festive period hours
Make sure you know your property manager’s opening hours. Barfoot & Thompson always have holiday cover, so you will never be without an emergency contact.
Holiday decor damages
We all love the sparkle and style the season invites via twinkling lights, tinsel and trees. Remember that nailing decorations to walls or hanging lights on a wooden balcony can cause serious damage and can be costly to repair. Use non-damaging plastic hooks and place plastic under real trees to stop water damage on floors and carpets. Turn off lights when you are not around to prevent fires and a huge uptick in your power bill.
We wish you a safe and happy holiday season! Don’t hesitate to contact your property manager for advice on keeping your home or apartment safe and secure during the festive period.