These days, we often find ourselves leaving our homes unattended. Whether you’re out for work, vacationing, or simply running errands, there’s always a chance that your empty house could become a target for burglars.
Understanding the outdoor clues that signal an unoccupied home can be invaluable in protecting your property. This post will guide you on 10 telltale signs that might inadvertently signal to potential intruders that no one’s home, and how to mitigate the risks associated with them.
1. Unattended Mail and Newspapers
One of the most obvious signs that a home is vacant is the accumulation of uncollected mail or newspapers. If they’ve been piling up for days, it’s a clear indication that no one is around to pick them up.
To prevent this, you can ask a neighbor or a friend to collect your mail and newspapers while you’re away. Alternatively, consider subscribing to a digital version of the newspaper or have your mail held at your local post office until you return. A clutter-free front porch is less likely to draw unwanted attention.
2. Unkempt Lawn
An overgrown lawn or garden can be a dead giveaway that the homeowner is away. It suggests that the house has not been tended to for a while, making it a potential target for burglars.
Consider hiring a lawn care service to maintain your yard if you’re going to be away for an extended period. Regular maintenance not only keeps your property looking great, but it also gives the impression that the house is occupied.
3. Empty Driveway
An empty driveway, especially for homes where cars are usually parked, can signal that the home is unoccupied.
To mitigate this, you could ask a neighbor to park their car in your driveway occasionally. This simple act can create the illusion that someone is home, deterring potential intruders.
4. Lights On All The Time
While it might seem like a good idea to leave a few lights on to make it appear like someone is home, lights that stay on 24/7 can actually signal the opposite.
Consider investing in timer switches for your lights. These devices can turn your lights on and off at predetermined times, creating the illusion of activity in the house.
5. Silent Surroundings
A silent house can be as telling as an empty one. No noise of people talking, TV sounds, or even a barking dog can indicate that the house might be empty.
Consider using a TV or radio timer that turns on at certain times. The noise will give an impression that someone is home. As an added measure, a security alarm system with a loud siren can also deter burglars.
6. No Trash
If your trash cans are always empty, especially on trash pickup days, it might suggest that no one is home to produce any waste.
Ask a neighbor or a friend to occasionally put trash in your cans. This not only creates the impression that the house is occupied but also keeps your bins from smelling bad when you return.
7. Unchanged Window Settings
Windows that stay shut all the time or curtains that never move can signal an empty house.
Change the settings of your windows and curtains before you leave. For instance, you can leave some curtains partially open. But avoid revealing valuable items that might be visible from outside.
8. Absence Of Daily Activity
The lack of daily activity, like kids playing in the yard or people coming in and out of the house, can also be a clue that a house is unoccupied.
You can ask a neighbor or a friend to occasionally visit your home. Their presence can give the illusion of activity, making it less likely to be targeted by burglars.
9. Visible Vacation Preparations
If people see you loading your car with suitcases or overhear you talking about your travel plans, they might deduce that your home will be vacant.
Be discreet about your travel plans. Only inform those who need to know, such as a trusted neighbor who can keep an eye on your home.
10. Social Media Announcements
Posting your vacation photos or check-ins on social media might inform potential burglars that your house is empty.
As exciting as it may be to share your vacation experiences, consider waiting until you’re back home to post on social media. Your home’s security should come first.