Keeping Your Property Safe This Christmas: Essential Security Tips for Landlords & Tenants

The Christmas season is a time for celebrations, travel, and well-deserved breaks but it’s also a period when property security becomes more important than ever. 

With many people away on holiday or out and about seeing family and friends, December can present extra opportunities for theft, and vandalism if the right precautions aren’t in place.

Whether you’re a landlord or a tenant, here are some practical tips to help safeguard your property over the festive season.

1. Don’t advertise your absence

Little details can attract unwanted attention.

• Ask a trusted neighbour to collect your mail to avoid it building up in your letterbox.
• Consider redirecting mail, and asking family or friends to pick up parcels left on your doorstep.
• Use light timers to automatically turn on and off your interior lights at night.
• Ensure bins are taken out and brought back in to maintain normal routines
  

2. Secure all entry points

Opportunistic break-ins often happen through unlocked or weak entry points.

Landlords:

• Ensure doors and windows are in good condition and fitted with secure locks.
  
  
• Consider installing deadbolts or security screens where needed.
  

Tenants:

• Double-check all doors and windows are closed and locked before leaving home.
  
  
• Avoid leaving spare keys outdoors.
  

3. Be mindful of social media posts

Holiday photos can signal that no one is home.

• Share travel updates after returning from your trip.
  
  
• Avoid posting real-time location tags.
  

4. Lock up outdoor items

Theft and vandalism is often opportunistic.

• Securely fasten outdoor Christmas decorations.
  
  
• Store bicycles, tools, and equipment in a locked garage or shed.

5. Update alarm systems & security cameras

If your property has security systems, ensure they’re in working condition.

Landlords:

• Upgrade outdated systems to modern, app-connected options.
• Install sensor lights at the front entrance and side access of the home.
  

Tenants:

• Arm alarms before leaving home.
  
• Ensure cameras are functioning and have adequate storage.
  

6. Conduct a pre-holiday property check

Before leaving for holidays, tenants should:

• Turn off electrical appliances not in use.
  
• Check that all taps are fully closed.
  
• Report any maintenance concerns early, especially issues related to locks, outdoor lighting, or fencing.
  

7. Fire safety during the festive season

Christmas lights and decorations can pose fire risks if not used carefully.

• Check for frayed wires or damaged lights.
  
• Avoid overloading power boards.
  
• Turn off Christmas lights before leaving home or going to sleep.
  

8. Review your insurances

Landlords:

This is an excellent time to confirm that your landlord insurance is up-to-date and covers theft, malicious damage, and weather-related incidents.

With a little preparation and awareness, landlords and tenants can enjoy a worry-free holiday season. 

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