Essential security checks before going on vacation
Heading away for two weeks and trying to make the house look lived-in so it doesn’t scream “empty” to anyone passing by. I’ve already set timers for lights in a couple of rooms and paused my mail delivery so nothing piles up at the door. Still, I’m sure there are lock-related or entry-point details I’m overlooking. The place has a mix of deadbolts and standard knob locks, plus a roller garage door with a motor. I keep thinking about whether I should physically secure the garage too or move any spare keys from the property. Found a Melbourne locksmith service here: in case I need quick help before leaving, but I’d like to hear what’s actually on your checklist before heading off—things that really matter for security, not just “feel-good” steps.
I do a room-by-room close: windows latched, deadbolts engaged, side gate locked, and the garage door physically locked (not just the remote). I hide nothing under doormats, move spare keys off property, and take clear photos of how doors look when secured so the house-sitter can match them. If any locks feel rough, fix them before you go so the sitter isn’t stranded. I also share one emergency contact for a local pro. Around Melbourne, this has been my “break glass” bookmark: locksmiths. They were friendly about pre-trip checks and rekeyed after a past lost key incident. Last thing: pull blinds to a normal mid-position rather than blackout—it looks less “away.”